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:

Occupational Certificate: Train Driver

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
97391	Occupational Certificate: Train Driver
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner-TETA
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate	Field 11 - Services		Transport, Operations and Logistics
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	121	Not Applicable	NQF Level 04	Regular-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0425/24	2018-07-01	2025-12-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30		2029-12-30

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 does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Train Driver.
Train Drivers drive and control different types of trains/motor powered rolling stock (any vehicles that move on a railway for example, locomotives, railroad cars, coaches, and wagons) safely and efficiently in accordance with safety standards in normal and adverse weather conditions, under normal, abnormal and/or degraded conditions to ensure on time arrival at scheduled destinations.

A qualified learner will be able to:

Prepare motor powered rolling stock.

Operate motor powered rolling stock.

Stable and stage motor powered rolling stock.

Rationale:
The South African government has set as a priority of reducing traffic - both freight and passenger services - from road to rail. A move such as this necessitates the timely development of the critical competence of train driving that will make the shift possible and sustainable. Transport systems are closely related to socio-economic changes. The mobility of people, freight and levels of territorial accessibility are at the core of this relationship. Economic opportunities are likely to arise where transportation infrastructures are able to answer mobility needs and insure access to markets and resources.

Rail transport in particular will reduce the volume of road traffic pressures on our roads. When more volumes move by motor powered rolling stock, more jobs will be created as this will ensure expansion.

This qualification was therefore identified as a critical need and developed to meet the needs of the Train Driving discipline. The following constituencies were all involved in its development and agreed that it meet their specific needs Transnet, Transnet Port Terminals, R&H Rail, Transnet Rail and Engineering, Transport Education and Training Authority, Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa Rail, AR + TS, Metrorail, GIJIMA, Transnet Group, BOC, Prasa Rail.

Persons operating within this industry, as well as other transport services, will benefit from this qualification which is instrumental to the development and recognition of the theoretical, practical and work experience competencies needed to render effective and efficient rail transport services. Given the number of Train Driver entering South Africa from neighbouring countries, this qualification is essential to set the benchmark for all Train Driver operating in the country.

The range of typical learners will therefore come from within the rail environment, from other sectors and outside the country. The Train Driver is part of a suit of occupational qualifications that has been developed by the rail sector to provide a learning pathway which includes the Train Control Officer, Train Driver and Functional Yard Operator.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL for access to the integrated assessment:
Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related Curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Prior learning must be acknowledged by a Statement of Results.

RPL for entry requirements to access the Qualification:
Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

Entry Requirements:

At NQF Level 3 qualification with Mathematical Literacy and Communication.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill Modules:

Knowledge Modules:

731101000-KM-01, General rules, procedures and train operating instructions, at NQF Level 3, 6 Credits.

731101000-KM-02, Theories and methods of train authorisation and train control and communication systems, at NQF Level 4, 7 Credits.

731101000-KM-03, Theory of brake systems, at NQF Level 4, 5 Credits.

731101000-KM-04, High voltage (Traction Power), at NQF Level 4, 3 Credits.

731101000-KM-05, Theory of motor powered rolling stock, at NQF Level 4, 6 Credits.

731101000-KM-06, Train handling techniques, at NQF Level 4, 5 Credits.

731101000-KM-07, Health, Safety, Legislation and Compliance, at NQF Level 3, 2 Credits.

731101000-KM-08, Environment, Energy Efficiency and Ethics, at NQF Level 4, 2 Credits.
Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 36

Practical Skill Modules:

731101000-PM-01, Interpret and observe signals, at NQF Level 3, 5 Credits.

731101000-PM-02, Use train controls, at NQF Level 3, 13 Credits.

731101000-PM-03, Apply train handling techniques in different situations, at NQF Level 4, 10 Credits.

731101000-PM-04, Handle train in an emergency/degraded situation, at NQF Level 4, 2 Credits.
Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 30

This qualification also requires the following Work Experience Modules:

731101000-WM-01, Processes and procedures to prepare for duty and observe operational requirements, at NQF Level 3, 5 Credits.

731101000-WM-02, Processes and procedures to prepare and dispatch motor powered rolling stock, at NQF Level 3, 5 Credits.

731101000-WM-03, Processes and procedures to perform Train Driver duties and operate and regulate the safe movement of different types of motor powered rolling stock, at NQF Level 4, 40 Credits.

731101000-WM-04, Processes and procedures for stabling/staging, securing motor powered rolling stock and performing signing off procedure, at NQF Level 3, 5 Credits.
Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 55

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Prepare motor powered rolling stock.
2. Operate motor powered rolling stock.
3. Stable and stage motor powered rolling stock.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 1:

Reporting and sign-on activities are completed in accordance to sign-on procedures and instructions.

Substance abuse testing is undertaken in accordance with relevant policies and procedures.

Relevant notices are read, interpreted and signed in order to acknowledge their content and impact on the task/service.

Work instructions are obtained and confirmed in accordance with relevant policies and procedures.

Equipment relevant to the task is obtained in accordance with relevant policies and procedures.

The ability to utilise and respond to communication systems and business language is demonstrated to impart clear and concise information to another party in accordance with communication policies and procedures.

The surroundings and environmental conditions of motor powered rolling stock are identified, and assessed in order to determine sub-standard conditions including water, sand, and movement of any other motor powered rolling stock and implement the necessary corrective actions.

The external equipment of the motor powered rolling stock is identified and assessed including pantographs, broken or damaged windows, brake pipes, external damages in order to implement the necessary corrective actions.

Sub-standard conditions such as failures for motor powered rolling stock are assessed in order to implement the necessary corrective actions.

Safe working procedures are applied when technical/maintenance personnel and/or warning/notice boards are observed on/or near the motor powered rolling stock.

All internal equipment inclusive of high and low voltage equipment and brake system components are identified in the Drivers (driving) cab or saloon (in terms of the Gautrain) in terms of their functions.

The internal and external components of motor powered rolling stock are identified and assessed in order to determine substandard conditions and implement the necessary corrective actions.

The correct starting up procedure is demonstrated in accordance with specific motor powered rolling stock requirements.

The correct brake and power test is performed according to the relative procedure.

The brake and power test is assessed in order to identify substandard conditions and implement the relative corrective actions.

Relevant communication systems are tested for functionality according to the relevant procedures and instructions.

The automatic couplers, gravity locks, air hoses/vacuum pipes and cables are visually checked to ensure that they are properly coupled between the motor powered rolling stock and wagons as per instructions.

The applicable cocks and circuit breakers are set relative to the specific motor powered rolling stock.

The relevant train brake system is set up and tested including applicable to auxiliary equipment like telemeters in accordance with the specific procedures.

The axle mass and brake percentage of the train are calculated, where applicable in accordance with relevant policies and procedures.

All relevant documentation pertaining to the train are analysed, considered and acknowledged in accordance with relevant procedures.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 2:

Instructions are interpreted and complied with in accordance with the operations of a train.

Communication systems are utilised and responded to and business language is used to impart clear and concise information to another party in accordance to communication policies and procedures.

Signals and train authorisations are observed in accordance with instructions and policies and procedures.

Different train handling techniques are applied under prevailing conditions to maintain safe speed and direction of a train in accordance with the prescribed route, running time/time table and company specific operating instructions.

The acceleration and deceleration of a train is regulated by applying road knowledge and complying with the topographic and environmental conditions to ensure the effective control of speed in accordance with the prescribed route, running time/time table and company specific operating instructions.

Hazards are identified and responded to arising from environmental conditions including the inclement weather, road traffic, pedestrians and livestock or any natural occurrence affecting the structure gauge.

Visual and audible indicators are continuously monitored and acted on to ensure the electro/mechanical components of the train are operating within normal parameters in accordance with operating instructions.

Operational principles are applied for safe movement on rail in accordance with the Technical requirements for Engineering and operational standards SANS 3000 Series of standards.

Motor powered rolling stock is operated by identifying degraded mode system/component, functioning under degraded mode and applying specific rules, instructions and procedures.

Required documentation related to working in degraded mode are interpreted and completed in accordance with relevant policies and procedures.

Discretion is exercised where degraded mode provisions are not provided for in the operating instructions.

Progress reporting is clear and concise during degraded circumstances and meets procedural requirements.

Contingency plans are implemented in accordance with the specific plan and circumstances.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 3:

Specifics of destination end point and authorities are correctly identified and acted upon to enter the destination end point.

Movement of the train is controlled onto the designated line at the applicable speed stopping safely within the predetermined limits.

The correct brake shutting down procedure is performed for motor powered rolling stock and train wagons.

All pipes and cables are uncoupled and placed in their correct holders.

Cocks are operated for detachment of load and motor powered rolling stock is safely uncoupled or detached from the rest of the train.

Detached wagons/coaches are secured according to company specific procedures.

Specifics of destination end point and authorities are correctly identified and acted upon to enter the destination end point.

Movement of the train is controlled onto the designated line at the applicable speed stopping safely within the predetermined limits.

The correct brake shutting down procedure is performed for motor powered rolling stock and train wagons.

Motor powered rolling stock is secured against unwanted movement according to instructions.

All doors, windows and compartment access doors are closed and where applicable securely locked in accordance with specific instructions.

All requirements are observed and complied with regarding the relevant high voltage instructions.

Relevant documentation are completed and submitted in accordance with the specific method.

Irregularities/deviations are reported in a clear and concise manner.

Roster layout is identified and interpreted to determine the minimum rest periods according to company policy and Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA).

Substance abuse test is completed and sign-off implemented in accordance with relevant procedure.

Integrated Assessment:
Integrated Formative Assessment:
The skills development providers will use the Curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

Integrated Summative Assessment:
An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality partner, is required for the issuing of this Qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria.
The assessment will include a practical demonstration as a phase test at an approved assessment site, conducted by an Assessor registered with the AQP. The external summative assessment will be conducted through a final theoretical assessment (oral or written) conducted in the workplace and evaluated by an Assessor registered with the AQP.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The international comparability study conducted specifically focused on identifying occupational standards or qualifications used in other countries that might contain indicators of best practice that could be used for comparison to or in the development of the Train Driver qualification at level 4 to be submitted for registration on the South African National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

The following international standards for Train Driver qualifications were identified:

Train drivers are in charge of, and responsible for, driving the locomotives, as well as the mechanical operation of the train, train speed and all train handling.

They may also inspect trains, report defects and carry out adjustments, shunt rolling stock in marshalling yards and sidings along the line, and refuel diesel trains.

In some organisations, they may make announcements and work with on-board staff (including guards) and routinely exchange information with them using radio or other communication systems.

Team work is important as you work closely with others including shunters and signalmen.

These were therefore considered during the generation and wider consultation processes with specific reference to functional analysis and occupational mapping processes. In general terms the Train Driver qualification was well covered by the above exemplars and South Africa has been identified as a world leader train transportation of heavy hall/bulk commodities. Local and international research around risk factors that influence safe operation has been consulted to ensure the qualification adequately emphasises human factors impacting on safe working.

Conclusion:
The identification of tasks and job profiles is based upon a sound methodology and extensive consultation with practitioners, resulting in valid and credible outputs that informed the development of the qualification. Useful comparisons may be drawn between the trends identified in the international standards and those affecting the competencies covered in this qualification.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This Qualification provides an opportunity for learners wishing to pursue a career in transport operations and management.

This qualification articulates vertically with:
Occupational Certificate: Train Controller (Train Control Officer) NQF Level 5, (currently being developed).

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

N/A

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS 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.

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