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All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |
| SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY |
| REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: |
| Further Education and Training Certificate: Power Plant Operations |
| SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
| 61569 | Further Education and Training Certificate: Power Plant Operations | |||
| ORIGINATOR | ||||
| SGB Power Plant Operations | ||||
| PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
| EWSETA - Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority | OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
| QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
| Further Ed and Training Cert | Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology | Manufacturing and Assembly | ||
| ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
| Undefined | 130 | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | Regular-Unit Stds Based |
| REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
|
Passed the End Date - Status was "Reregistered" |
SAQA 06120/18 | 2018-07-01 | 2023-06-30 | |
| LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
| 2024-06-30 | 2027-06-30 | |||
| In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise. |
This qualification replaces: |
| Qual ID | Qualification Title | Pre-2009 NQF Level | NQF Level | Min Credits | Replacement Status |
| 23735 | National Certificate: Hydro Power Plant Operation | Level 4 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L4 | 150 | Complete |
This qualification is replaced by: |
| Qual ID | Qualification Title | Pre-2009 NQF Level | NQF Level | Min Credits | Replacement Status |
| 103259 | Occupational Certificate: Nuclear Power Plant Operator | Not Applicable | NQF Level 05 | 311 | Complete |
| 104458 | Occupational Certificate: Hydro Power Plant Operator | Not Applicable | NQF Level 05 | 340 | Complete |
| PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION |
| Purpose:
Learners obtaining this qualification will be able to perform operational activities on the power plant auxiliary systems/processes and related equipment as Field Operating Supervisors on all power utilities in South Africa. The qualification will ensure professionalism, proficiency and excellence in the operating of Power Plants. It will also assist in changing perceptions on the status and functional levels of operators in the work place. The qualification will provide the operators with pride and self worth and enhance their morale. Worth to the employer will be manifested in the competence of the employee in terms of safe, sound and efficient operations performed by the operator. This qualification will provide for recognition of prior learning of existing operators` competence throughout the industry and allowed credits to be obtained in cross- functional learning fields. The qualification will provide the foundational requirements for mobility and vertical progression into power plant control. A person acquiring this qualification will have skills, knowledge and behavioural competence in the following areas: Rationale: This qualification is based on the industry needs in building competencies in the workplace for Power Plant Operators. The qualification therefore sets national standards for field operators on power plant operations. This qualification is a direct outcome of the revision of the FETC: Power Plant Operations, NQF Level 4 suite of qualifications ID: 23735, 23678 and ID: 23733 the demand for which is based on the transformation of the existing qualifications into a qualification with specializations that meets the needs of the relevant industry, supporting the principles of the NQF and providing the flexibility of bridging into a management type of qualification with a strong customer focus. This qualification aims at providing formal recognition for competencies already obtained and will continue to do so by providing recognition to workers in the Power Plant Operations Industry. In addition, this qualification provides the learner with the opportunity to obtain competencies in the various power plant operations within the workplace, as well as in power plant operations safety and quality control. In this way, value is added to worker's employability and competence and the sustainability of the power plant operations industry is improved. This qualification provides the learner with accessibility primarily to be employed within the functional areas of the various power plant operations but does not exclude horizontal movement to other power utilities. Other considerations in the national interest addressed by this qualification are: |
| LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
| It is assumed that learners are already competent in:
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Access to the Qualification: Access to the qualification is open to any learner with a related NQF Level 3 technical qualification. However, it is preferable that learners have completed: |
| RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
| Y |
| QUALIFICATION RULES |
The Fundamental Component consists of Unit Standards in: > Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 4 to the value of 16 credits. > Communication at NQF Level 4 in a First South African Language to the value of 20 credits. > Communication in a Second South African Language at NQF Level 3 to the value of 20 credits. It is compulsory therefore for learners to do Communication in two different South African languages, one at NQF Level 4 and the other at NQF Level 3. All Unit Standards in the Fundamental Component are compulsory. Specialization Area 1: Hydro Power Plant Operations: Choose unit standards totalling a minimum of 62 credits from the Elective Unit Standards listed below: Total: 62 Credits. Specialization Area 2: Fossil Power Plant Operations: Choose unit standards totalling a minimum of 102 credits from the Elective Unit Standards listed below: Total: 126 Credits. Specialization Area 3: Nuclear Power Plant Operations: Choose unit standards totalling a minimum of 107 credits from the Elective Unit Standards listed below: Total: 139 Credits. |
| EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
| 1. Solve complex problems in a variety of contexts.
2. Communicate effectively in the workplace. 3. Explain and apply supervisory concepts related to power plant operations. 4. Demonstrate knowledge of regulatory requirements associated with power plant operations. 5. Operate Hydro Turbine Generator processes and associated equipment within safe operating parameters. Critical Cross-Field Outcomes (CCFOs): This qualification promotes, in particular, the following Critical Cross-Field Outcomes: Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made when: Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, and community during: Organising and managing oneself and one`s activities responsibly and effectively when: Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information to better understand and explain by: Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion when: Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others when: Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation when: |
| ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
| Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
1. Problems are identified using definitive techniques. 2. Problem solving strategies are dealt with according to hydro power plant operation procedures. 3. Root causes are identified and solutions derived at are applied to solve problems. 4. Problem solving approach is communicated in a clear and structured manner using appropriate terminology. 5. Solutions are validated in terms of the problem solving process. 6. Technology is used effectively to assist in problem solving. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: 1. Language structure and features are applied effectively to accommodate workplace requirements. 2. Appropriate media is used to communicate in a clear and structured manner. 3. Media used for communications contributes to effective communication. 4. Communication barriers are identified and addressed as appropriate to the situation. 5. Text in written and oral communication is interpreted against set standards. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: 1. The role of self management practices is explained within the context of transformational leadership. 2. Leadership attributes are integrated to meet the strategic intent within the organisation. 3. Understanding of leadership concepts contributes to the safe, efficient and effective operation of power plants. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: 1. Regulatory requirements in workplace procedures are described and interpreted within the context of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. 2. Non-compliance to statutory requirements is described in terms of the potential impact on the micro environment. 3. Interrelations between related regulatory requirements are described in terms of standard operating procedures. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5: 1. Plant operations are performed according to operating standards. 2. Out of normal emergency conditions are identified and acted upon using Power Plant Engineering Principles. 3. Interrelation of Hydro Systems is interpreted and contextualised within Power Generation. 4. Principles of teamwork are applied according to operational requirements. Integrated Assessment: The applied competence (practical, foundational and reflective competencies) of this qualification will be achieved if a learner is able to achieve the exit level outcomes of the qualification as per the rules specified. Applicable critical cross field outcomes must be assessed during any combination of practical, foundational and reflexive competencies assessment methods and tools to determine the whole person development and integration of applied knowledge and skills. Certain exit level outcomes are measurable and verifiable through assessment criteria assessed in one application Applicable assessment tools to assess the foundational, reflective and practical competencies within the power plant operations environment. A detailed portfolio of evidence is required of the practical, foundational and reflective competencies of the learner Assessors and moderators should develop and conduct integrated assessment by making use of a range of formative and summative methods. Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired (RPL) through any form of learning Unit standards associated with this qualification must be used to assess Specific and Critical Cross-Field Outcomes. During integrated assessment, the assessor should make use of formative and summative assessment methods and should assess combinations of practical, foundational and reflective competencies. Formative Assessment: Assessment criteria for formative assessment are described in the various unit standards. Formative assessment takes place during the process of learning and assessors should use a range of appropriate assessment methods and tools that assesses competence holistically. These methods include but not limited to the following: The assessment tools and methods used by the assessor must be: Summative Assessment: Summative assessment is carried out at the end of each meaningful competence level achieved by the learner. A detailed portfolio of evidence is required to prove the practical, foundational and reflective competencies of the learner. Assessors and Moderators: Work place assessors should develop and conduct integrated assessments by using appropriate methods and techniques. Moderation to be done according to laid down requirements. |
| INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
| Introduction:
The Nuclear Power Plant qualifications are based on a study conducted by the Power Plant Standards Generating Body working groups on the qualifications available in various countries with leading power producers. From the countries reviewed it was concluded that the UK model (with minor changes) was the most applicable to the South African context and as such was used as the basis for these outline of the qualifications This qualification was further reviewed and developed taking into account the USA training programmes and content. A final review was done to ensure that it meets the SAQA requirements for registration. In South Africa there are a number of Hydro Power stations as well as two Pump Storage Schemes. The training and development of hydro operators and controllers take place in South Africa where a number of these utilities have been benchmarked against EPRI standards. Hydro Operator Training in Sub-Saharan Africa is provided at Kafue Gorge Regional Training Centre which was funded by the Norwegian Government. A number of short courses are offered where candidates from the following countries are trained: Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Mauritius, Uganda and Kenya. Benchmark Background: The USA has the most utilities and structured training programmes but they do not have a structured national qualifications network similar to the NQF, however, the same principles apply as far as analysis, design, development and evaluation of the training programmes is concerned. The USA nuclear industry standard is governed by the NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission). The standard of training is ensured by accrediting all training programmes to requirements as set out and evaluated by Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO). The Systematic Approach to Training (SAT) is applied throughout all the US nuclear programmes resulting in a structured training curriculum (task list) consisting of main objectives and specific outcomes similar to the core and electives as laid out in this qualification. The tasks are given a rating based on knowledge and ability required to perform the task and from this the frequency of the training is determined. The task list does not have credits coupled to the learning components. INPO award accreditation status to a utility based on documented proof of the training programmes meeting the INPO standard. The accreditation status gets renewed every four years based on an evaluation report compiled by an audit team and presented at an accreditation board meeting. INPO award recognition to the candidates completing the nuclear training programmes in a similar fashion by awarding a certificate once an accredited programme is completed by a learner. It can be concluded that although not the same, the INPO practices are similar to the principles applicable to this qualification. The core elements are the same for a similar type nuclear facility. The main difference is seen in the elective and fundamental elements. Major differences noted are soft skills and generic fossil elements are not covered in the INPO task list. The USA takes credit for the elective and fundamental elements in the national education system. Benchmark Matrix: Nuclear Power Plant Operations: SA: Criteria: USA: Criteria: UK: Criteria: Matrix Information: Utility: Internationally the USA has the most utilities and the best structured training programmes. It is recommended that the USA should be utilised as the main country to benchmark nuclear qualifications against. The main differences encountered were the fact that the USA does not have a National structured qualification framework similar to South Africa. The South African training programme content was developed, implemented and maintained in accordance with their nuclear training programmes. The programmes were found to be well developed and tested to meet the industry demand and SAQA requirements. In terms of the qualification model completeness, the UK model was the one chosen and eventually used as a benchmark. Roles: The role of Operator is defined as the person performing duties as a field operator. The role of Controller is the person controlling integrated, interrelated processes from a control room. The only country using the operator to perform maintenance duties is Germany. In the nuclear field the maintenance duties are normally not performed by the operating staff but by specialist maintenance personnel. Framework Levels: Qualifications obtained in this learning field for Nuclear, Fossil and Hydro Power Plants consist of five certificates, three diplomas and one first degree. NQF/NVO and credit levels: NQF Level 3 - 209 credits, NQF Level 4 - 293 credits and NQF Level 5 - 380 credits. Accreditation/Quality Assurance: In South Africa with Eskom as the only Nuclear utility, Koeberg power station achieved a fully fledged INPO accreditation. Quality in terms of best practices is assured worldwide by the International Organisation, World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO). In conclusion it was decided that in terms of the qualification model completeness, the UK model was regarded as the best to benchmark this qualification against, with the content of the United States of America (USA) qualifications also playing a prominent role in it. |
| ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
| This qualification provides the learner with the flexibility to pursue different careers in the power generation industry. The level of flexibility within the range of elective utilities (hydro, nuclear, fossil and electrical control) will allow the individual to pursue further learning within those development areas.
This Qualification allows for both horizontal and vertical articulation. Vertical Articulation can occur with: Horizontal Articulation can occur with: |
| MODERATION OPTIONS |
| CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS |
| The assessor must be:
|
REREGISTRATION HISTORY |
| As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. |
| NOTES |
| This qualification replaces qualification 23735, "National Certificate: Hydro Power Plant Operation", Level 4, 150 credits.
Computer literacy, where applicable must cover topics concerning word processing, spreadsheets and electronic mail, according to the learning assumed to have taken place section. |
| UNIT STANDARDS: |
| ID | UNIT STANDARD TITLE | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | CREDITS | |
| Core | 14062 | Demonstrate Knowledge of Safe Entry into Prohibited and/ or Restricted Areas | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 2 |
| Core | 13600 | Demonstrate knowledge of regulatory requirements for permit to work systems | Level 5 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5 | 10 |
| Fundamental | 119472 | Accommodate audience and context needs in oral/signed communication | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
| Fundamental | 119458 | Analyse and respond to a variety of literary texts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
| Fundamental | 119466 | Interpret a variety of literary texts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
| Fundamental | 119457 | Interpret and use information from texts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
| Fundamental | 9015 | Apply knowledge of statistics and probability to critically interrogate and effectively communicate findings on life related problems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 6 |
| Fundamental | 119462 | Engage in sustained oral/signed communication and evaluate spoken/signed texts | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
| Fundamental | 119469 | Read/view, analyse and respond to a variety of texts | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
| Fundamental | 9016 | Represent analyse and calculate shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional space in different contexts | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
| Fundamental | 119471 | Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
| Fundamental | 7468 | Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business, national and international issues | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 6 |
| Fundamental | 119459 | Write/present/sign for a wide range of contexts | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
| Elective | 14063 | Apply Self Management through the Concepts of Positive Self-esteem and Resiliency | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 2 |
| Elective | 14037 | Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of heat exchange equipment used in a process plant | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 2 |
| Elective | 10574 | Demonstrate knowledge of Steam Generator design and application | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 6 |
| Elective | 14065 | Demonstrate knowledge of steam turbines design and application | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 6 |
| Elective | 14217 | Operate Bulk Lubrication Oil Systems | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
| Elective | 14119 | Operate nuclear auxiliary cooling systems | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 15 |
| Elective | 13723 | Operate turbo-generator fire extinguishing system on a nuclear power plant | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 1 |
| Elective | 14064 | Understand Constructive Thinking | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 12 |
| Elective | 14061 | Understand Management Practices | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 7 |
| Elective | 14060 | Understand transformational leadership | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
| Elective | 14060 | Understand transformational leadership | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
| Elective | 242755 | Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of power plant auxilliary systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 9 |
| Elective | 14126 | Demonstrate knowledge of steam turbines design and application | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 6 |
| Elective | 13705 | Describe fundamental instrumentation and measurement equipment associated with nuclear power plant | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 3 |
| Elective | 14898 | Operate Fossil Fired Steam Generator and Combustion Air and Flue Gas Systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 8 |
| Elective | 255896 | Operate fossil fired steam generator for fuel firing system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 13 |
| Elective | 14903 | Operate Fossil Fired Steam Generator Spray Water System | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 2 |
| Elective | 14896 | Operate Fossil Fired Steam Generator Water and Steam System | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 11 |
| Elective | 14212 | Operate hydro generator cooling system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
| Elective | 14216 | Operate Hydro Generator Plant Bearing Systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 2 |
| Elective | 10900 | Operate hydro power generation common cooling water | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
| Elective | 13633 | Operate hydro power generation drainage and dewatering systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
| Elective | 13638 | Operate hydro power generation station plants - Emergency standby electrical systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 2 |
| Elective | 14211 | Operate hydro power generation transformer auxiliary systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
| Elective | 13673 | Operate hydro power generation turbine plant main pump and/or turbine system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
| Elective | 14213 | Operate hydro power generator mechanical brake and jacking system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 3 |
| Elective | 14215 | Operate Hydro Power Generator Starting and Braking Devices | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
| Elective | 14215 | Operate Hydro Power Generator Starting and Braking Devices | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
| Elective | 13652 | Operate hydro turbine plant bearing systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 7 |
| Elective | 13666 | Operate hydro turbine plant blow down air system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
| Elective | 13645 | Operate hydro turbine plant cooling water system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
| Elective | 13664 | Operate hydro turbine plant governing systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
| Elective | 13658 | Operate hydro turbine plant main inlet valve system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 4 |
| Elective | 13665 | Operate hydro turbine plant shaft sealing system | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 2 |
| Elective | 14115 | Operate nuclear reactor coolant and support systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 15 |
| Elective | 13798 | Operate nuclear reactor fire extinguishing systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 1 |
| Elective | 13728 | Operate nuclear reactor refueling water systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 3 |
| Elective | 14116 | Operate nuclear reactor safeguard systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 3 |
| Elective | 13794 | Operate nuclear reactor vent and drain systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 3 |
| Elective | 13801 | Operate radioactive gaseous waste handling systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 3 |
| Elective | 13727 | Operate radioactive liquid waste treatment and handling systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 17 |
| Elective | 11944 | Operate Steam Turbine Condensate System | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 8 |
| Elective | 14059 | Operate Steam Turbine Condenser Air Evacuation Systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 6 |
| Elective | 14880 | Operate Steam Turbine Feedwater Storage, Heating and Pumping Systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 12 |
| Elective | 14881 | Operate Steam Turbine Steam Systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 10 |
| Elective | 14107 | Operate Support Plant Diesel Systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 2 |
| Elective | 13724 | Operate Turbo-Generator Auxiliary Systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 3 |
| Elective | 13721 | Operate Turbo-Generator Cooling Systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 12 |
| Elective | 13720 | Operate Turbo-Generator Oil Systems | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 9 |
| LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification. |
| NONE |
| PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here. |
| NONE |
| All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |