SAQA 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: Rail Operations (Train Control) 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
66669  Further Education and Training Certificate: Rail Operations (Train Control) 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Rail and Pipeline Operations 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
TETA - Transport Education and Training Authority  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Further Ed and Training Cert  Field 11 - Services  Transport, Operations and Logistics 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  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
24498  National Certificate: Rail Operations (Train Control)  Level 4  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L4  126  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

A learner qualifying in this qualification will be able to manage and plan train control for the safe and timeous movement of rail-bound vehicles from one point to another under planned and controlled conditions.

A learner who has achieved this qualification will have extensive theoretical and practical knowledge and skills of all systems of train control as required. This qualification will also form the platform to proceed to Transport Management and Transport Logistics Management qualifications.

Qualifying learners will be capable of:
  • Coordinating the maintenance of a rail track.
  • Administering train control methods for safe movement on rail.
  • Applying suitable train control procedures during degraded mode.

    Rationale:

    A safe and efficient rail transport system provides a key service for the transport sector of an economy. This qualification is intended for new entrants as well as existing personnel to gain formal recognition for learning in rail operations (yard personnel and train control). It will serve to equip qualifying learners with the ability to perform functions related to administering train control methods and systems for the safe movement on rail.

    This unit standards-based qualification was generated to provide an opportunity for entry into the rail operations industry at NQF Level 4, a foundation for further learning at NQF level 5 as well as for further development from NQF Level 3.

    The aim of this qualification is to create a life-long learning environment in which the individual can build on a personal career in the Rail transportation sector. The Functional Yard Operations qualification and various skills programmes that exist will allow learners to progress to a national qualification in Train Control. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that the learner attempting this qualification is competent in:
  • Communication at NQF Level 3.
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 3.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This Qualification and all fundamental, core and elective Unit Standards associated with it can be achieved by any learner through the recognition of prior learning, which includes learning outcomes achieved through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience. Learner and assessor will jointly decide on methods to determine prior learning and competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in the qualification and the associated unit standards.

    This Recognition of Prior Learning may allow for:
  • Gaining of credits for unit standards in this qualification.
  • Obtaining this qualification in whole.

    All Recognition of Prior Learning is subject to quality assurance by the relevant ETQA or an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.

    Access to the Qualification:
  • There is open access to this Qualification. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The Qualification consists of a Fundamental, a Core and an Elective Component.

    To be awarded the Qualification learners are required to obtain a minimum of 120 credits as detailed below.

    Fundamental component:

    The Fundamental Component consists of Unit Standards in:
  • Mathematical Literacy at Level 4 to the value of 16 credits.
  • Communication at Level 4 in a First South African Language to the value of 20 credits.
  • Communication in a Second South African Language at 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 Level 4 and the other at Level 3.

    All Unit Standards in the Fundamental Component are compulsory.

    Core component:
  • The Core Component consists of Unit Standards to the value of 50 credits all of which are compulsory.

    Elective component:
  • The Elective Component consists of individual unit standards from which the learner must choose unit standards totalling a minimum of 14 credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Co-ordinate the use of a Heavy Tamping Machine for rail track maintenance.

    2. Administer train control methods for safe movement on rail.

    3. Apply suitable train control procedures during degraded mode. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

    1.1. The Tamping Machine is despatched and protected in accordance with organisational standards and procedures.
    1.2. Appropriate train control systems are applied during the working of the Tamping Machine according to organisational standards and procedures.
    1.3. The despatching procedures of trains during the working of the Tamping Machine on the relevant train control system are applied according to organizational standards and procedures.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

    2.1. Rail movements are designed and implemented according to movement information, operational requirements and calculated running times.
    2.2. Telegraph orders and warning advices are issued according to information on exchanged messages and train crossings arrangements diagrams.
    2.3. Colour light signals and points are operated from a console or panel and reaction is ensured to be in accordance with organisational requirements.
    2.4. Pilot working of train control is planned, implemented and terminated in accordance with train working rules.
    2.5. Train movement is recorded and communicated according to train working rules.

    Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

    3.1. Planned and unplanned interruptions are explained in terms of their characteristics and impact on the execution of the train service.
    3.2. Train control procedures are implemented during degraded mode in accordance with train working rules for relevant systems.
    3.3. Reporting protocol to communicate degraded mode is adhered to in terms of the organisational structure.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Integrated assessment at the level of the qualification provides an opportunity for learners to show that they are able to integrate concepts, principles and practice across unit standards to achieve competence that is grounded and coherent in relation to the purpose of the qualification. Integrated assessment should show how already demonstrated competence in individual areas can be linked and applied for the achievement of a holistic outcomes as described in the exit level outcomes.

    Integrated assessment must judge the quality of the observable performance, and also the quality of the thinking that lies behind it. Assessment tools must encourage learners to give an account of the thinking and decision-making that underpin their demonstrated performance. Some assessment practices will demand practical evidence while others may be more theoretical, depending on the type of outcomes to be assessed. The ratio between action and knowledge is not fixed, but varies according to the demands of the particular exit level outcome of the qualification.

    While the generic components of this qualification at NQF Level 3 can be assessed through occupational contexts and activities relating to Train Operations, care must be taken in both the learning programme and the assessment to ensure that these foundational skills are portable. The primary aim of this qualification is to ensure that learners have a sound general foundation to prepare them for further learning towards a specialised role in their chosen career path. Learners must be able to transfer generic skills across a number of different contexts, and apply them within a number of learning areas.

    A broad range of task-orientated and theoretical assessment tools may be used, with the distinction between practical knowledge and disciplinary knowledge being maintained so that each takes its rightful place.

    Unit Standards in the qualification must be used to assess the specific and Critical Cross Field Outcomes. It is recommended that the assessment tools give Learners the opportunity to account for their decision-making and problem solving in line with the Specific Outcomes and related Assessment Criteria. 

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The South African qualification was compared with equivalent international offerings in terms of the purpose, broad outcomes and the units of learning available in the following countries:
  • United Kingdom.
  • United States of America.

    The comparable offering in the United Kingdom is the Level 2 NVQ in Rail Transport Operations (Control Room Operations) 100/3581/3. This is a work-based qualification designed for control room operators within the rail industry to offer them the opportunity to prove competence of industrial performance, knowledge and understanding and to recognise their ability working in the sector. The purpose and broad outcomes of this qualification compares directly with the South African qualification.

    The competencies of the following mandatory and optional units compare closely with the South African core unit standards in terms of specific outcomes and assessment criteria:
  • L/102/3727: Prepare to undertake duties.
  • R/102/3728: Assist in the provision of a safe and secure work environment.
  • Y/102/3729: Obtain and communicate information.
  • L/102/3730: Develop and maintain productive working relationships.
  • F/102/3742: Monitor and ensure the provision of services to the railway.
  • J/102/3743: Identify and respond to deviations from the planned service.
  • L/102/3744: Implement plans to meet operational requirements.
  • R/102/3745: Operate control room equipment to meet operational requirements.
  • D/102/3747: Provide protection to meet operational requirements.
  • H/102/3748: Identify and react to symptoms of engineering faults and failures.
  • K/102/3749: Control the utilisation of rolling stock to meet maintenance requirements.

    The National Academy of Railroad Sciences (NARS) in the USA offers several programs toward a career on the railroad. These programs are offered at various institutions including the Johnson Community County College campus and include training for:
  • Railroad conductors.
  • Locomotive electricians.
  • Freight car operators.
  • Signalmen.
  • Railroad welders.
  • Locomotive mechanics.

    Many of the competencies covered in the South African qualification relate to the Railroad Signalmen programme, however, the installation and repair of signal systems to control train movements and crossing warning systems is not included. The South African context caters for the operation of this equipment, excluding the mechanical competencies. The skills include the ability to:
  • Acquire track protection from dispatchers and control operators.
  • Plan and schedule daily tasks.
  • Perform general mechanic work.
  • Operate power tools.
  • Inspect for federal compliance.
  • Operate all types of computer systems.
  • Obtain a commercial drivers license.

    Information on training provided for personnel of Deutche Bahn, the largest rail service provider in Europe, is not readily available.

    The Ministry of Railways of the Indian Government is the operator of the largest rail network in the world and conducts training for personnel at the Railway Staff College in Baroda. Information on training is not readily available.

    Conclusion:

    The "Control Room" qualification available in the United Kingdom is the closest equivalent located internationally in relation to the South African "Train Control" qualification. In essence the purpose of these qualifications is to train rail personnel to perform the same workplace functions. Both qualifications cater for the provision of services during "degraded mode" or abnormal conditions, to control the safe movement of trains and to provide safe working conditions for track maintenance.

    The difference between these qualifications lies in the type of equipment used to control the safe movement of trains. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The possibility exists for vertical articulation with this Qualification. The following qualifications serve as examples of vertical articulation:
  • ID 63529: National Certificate: Railway Signaling Technology, NQF Level 5.
  • ID 57407: National Diploma: Train Driving (Mainline Operations), NQF Level 5.
  • ID: 61489: National Certificate: Transport Operations, NQF Level 5.

    Examples of horizontal articulation with this Qualification:
  • ID 24498: Further Education and Training Certificate: Rail Operations: Train Control, NQF Level 4.
  • ID 61670: Further Education and Training Certificate: Railway Construction and Maintenance, NQF Level 4.
  • ID 49067: Further Education and Training Certificate: Railway Signalling: Fault-finding and Repair of Equipment, NQF Level 4. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this qualification and the associated unit standards must be accredited by the relevant ETQA.
  • External Moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA at its discretion.
  • The accredited Training Provider will oversee internal moderation of assessment.
  • Internal and external moderation should encompass achievement of competence described in the exit level outcomes of the qualification as well as the integrated competence described in the purpose of the qualification. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    This qualification replaces qualification 24498, "National Certificate: Rail Operations (Train Control)", Level 4, 126 Credits. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  264373  Administer telegraph orders for safe movement on rail  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Core  264242  Co-ordinate operations of the heavy tamping machine  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  264379  Control rail movement by operating colour-light signals  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
    Core  260920  Explain the topographical concepts of a trajectory within the rail environment  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Core  264340  Administer pilot working of train control for safe movement on rail  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  5 
    Core  264382  Develop a train service  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  119457  Interpret and use information from texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  119467  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  119465  Write/present/sign texts for a range of communicative contexts  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  7484  Describe, represent, analyse and explain changes in shape and motion in 2- and 3-dimensional space with justification  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    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  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  262449  Devise strategies for the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  116714  Lead a team, plan, allocate and assess their work  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  264414  Administer radio train order system of train control for safe movement on rail  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Elective  264337  Administer Van Schoor system of train control for safe movement on rail  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  264404  Administer wooden train staff system of train control for safe movement on rail  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Elective  264336  Control rail movement by operating semaphore signals and indicators on a double line system  Level 4  NQF Level 04  7 
    Elective  264334  Control rail movement by operating semaphore signals on single lines  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Elective  116594  Function in a team  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  264415  Administer track warrant system of train control for safe movement on rail  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 


    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.