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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Pest Management Officer 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
99513  Occupational Certificate: Pest Management Officer 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - AgriSETA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Secondary Agriculture 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  257  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  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 Pest Management Officer.

A Pest Management Officer inspects a range of work sites; identifies pests present; plans and prepares for the appropriate treatment; implements treatment intervention processes; and implements site clean-up and clearance processes in order to manage pest infestations in domestic, commercial and industrial sites.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Inspect premises and identify pests.
  • Plan pest management interventions.
  • Implement pest management interventions.
  • Implement site clean-up and clearance processes.

    Rationale:
    This qualification falls within the occupational unit group, Government Regulatory Technicians and Associate Professionals. This qualification addresses unique competences of the Pest Management Officer occupation and relates to the management and control of pests in a range of retail, bulk storage, commercial and domestic environments.

    The management of pests relates to where we live, work and play, in food processing and handling, food retail, hospitality, schools and day care centres and in hospitals and health care facilities. Insects, rodents, birds, and other pests cause extensive damage to our food, health, and property each year. Many pests also transmit disease. Cockroaches, flies, mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, rodents, and birds are directly involved in the transmission of such diseases as Food Poisoning, Malaria, Typhus, Viral Encephalitis, Plague and Lyme disease. Other pests bite or sting or cause allergic reactions in the indoor environment. Finally, pests living in and around buildings are objectionable to most people simply by their presence, detracting from the overall quality of life. Qualified Pest Management service providers are an essential component to ensure that pests are controlled in all areas in a responsible and environmentally safe manner.

    This qualification introduces the International Code of Conduct to the distribution and use of pesticides. The principles of the Code have been acknowledged in the design of this qualification. The code is accepted as the worldwide guidance document on pesticide management for all public and private entities engaged in, or associated with, the distribution and use of pesticides.

    This qualification will empower Pest Management Officers with knowledge in Vector-borne diseases, which account for about 17% of the estimated global burden of communicable diseases. These diseases are among the major causes of human illness and death in the African Region, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). Vector control constitutes the first line of activity and plays a key role in prevention and control of major vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, leishmaniasis and chikungunya.

    Improper use and general mismanagement of pesticides can cause harm to human health and the environment. It is therefore important that pesticides are applied and used in a sound and careful manner, and that their use poses a low risk to human health and to the environment. This qualification includes competencies related to the management of these risks.

    The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries have prioritised the training of Pest Management Officers through regulations for the registration of Pest Management Officers. The regulations provides for the P-registration of persons who deliver commercial Pest Management services and it is a requirement that no person shall offer Pest Management services unless delivered by a P-Registered officer. This ensures that all Pest Management Officers have the required competencies to control the application of chemicals in an environmentally safe and responsible manner as regulated by Law.

    This qualification is the accepted regulated requirement for persons seeking to obtain P-Registration with the Registrar.

    The qualification design consists of generic core of competencies that prepares a learner to specialise in weed and Invader Plant Management, Wood Destroying Organism Management, Structural Fumigation Management, Stored Agricultural Product Pest Management and Health and Nuisance Pest Management as part qualifications.

    Pest Management Officers are employed by enterprises involved in the management of pests in domestic, commercial and industrial work sites. This qualification addresses the need to promote employment opportunities in the Pest Management industry. This occupational qualification responds to a specific need in the South African labour market to provide a standard for the development of persons employed as P-Registered Pest Management Officers. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
  • NQF Level 4 qualification with Mathematics. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 335904000-KM-01, The regulatory framework of the pest management industry, Level 4, 3 Credits.
  • 335904000-KM-02, Pesticides and personal, public and environmental safety, Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 335904000-KM-03, Pest inspection principles and procedures, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 335904000-KM-04, Biology, damage patterns and identification of pests, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 335904000-KM-05, Application equipment for pest management interventions, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 335904000-KM-06, Pest management principles, planning and monitoring, Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 335904000-KM-07, Customer service and teamwork, Level 4, 3 Credits.
  • 335904000-KM-08, Structural fumigation management, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 335904000-KM-09, Stored agricultural product pest fumigation management, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 335904000-KM-10, Wood destroying organism management, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 335904000-KM-11, Weed and invader plant management, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 335904000-KM-12, Health and nuisance pest management, Level 5, 10 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 79.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 335904000-PM-01, Access and inspect work sites for pests, Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-02, Identify pest/s encountered and assess the infestation impact, Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-03, Plan the strategy and logistic requirements for work site pest management interventions, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-04, Prepare work sites for insecticide, herbicide and fungicide interventions, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-05, Prepare work sites for fumigation interventions, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-06, Monitor and control implementation of work site insecticide, herbicide and fungicide interventions, Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-07, Monitor and control implementation of work site fumigation interventions, Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-08, Conduct fumigation processes for structural pests, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-09, Conduct fumigation processes for stored agricultural product pests, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-10, Conduct treatment processes for wood destroying organisms, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-11, Conduct treatment processes for weeds and invader plants, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-12, Conduct treatment processes for health and nuisance pests, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-13, Perform work site insecticide, herbicide or fungicide clean-up and clearance procedures, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 335904000-PM-14, Perform work site fumigation clean-up and clearance and procedures, Level 4, 4 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 84.

    This qualification also requires the following Work Experience Modules:
  • 335904000-WM-01, Work site pest inspection processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-02, Pest identification and impact assessment processes, Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-03, Pest management intervention strategic and logistical planning processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-04, Work site insecticide, herbicide and fungicide application preparation processes, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-05, Work site pest fumigation preparation processes, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-06, Pest insecticide, herbicide and fungicide management intervention monitoring and control processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-07, Pest fumigation management intervention monitoring and control processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-08, Structural fumigation management processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-09, Stored agricultural product pest fumigation management processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-10, Wood destroying organism management processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-11, Weed and invader plant management processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-12, Health and nuisance pest management processes, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-13, Work site insecticide, herbicide or fungicide clean-up and clearance processes, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 335904000-WM-14, Work site fumigation clean-up and clearance and processes, Level 4, 4 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 94. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Conduct structural pest fumigation management in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
    2. Conduct stored agricultural product Pest Fumigation Management in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
    3. Conduct wood destroying organism management in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
    4. Conduct weed and invader plant management in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
    5. Conduct health and nuisance pest management in accordance with legislative and company requirements. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Pest presence and vulnerabilities to infestation are identified according to standard industry practice by their biology, habits, habitats and evidence of their inhabiting an environment.
  • Site/structure measurements are taken and risks associated with the fumigation are established according to standard industry practice and recorded.
  • Pest identification procedures are followed and pests are identified correctly.
  • A fundamental understanding of the key terms, rules, concepts and established principles related to inspections and identification of structural pests is demonstrated.
  • A structured and biosecurity conscious planning and preparation process is followed for the fumigation of structural pests in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Notices and warning signs are prepared in accordance with pesticide application legislative requirements, and customer and site personnel, adjoining properties and relevant authorities are advised of the planned fumigation.
  • Electrical boxes, wiring, electric motors, etc. inside area to be fumigated are identified and sealed and the electrical power is turned off.
  • A cost effective and practical pest management method that is acceptable to the customer and involves the lowest level of risk to the client, operator and environment is selected.
  • The fumigant selected is suitable and registered for the identified pest, appropriate to the fumigation method chosen and relates to the correct interpretation of fumigant label, and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) information.
  • An aeration system or alternative equipment (e.g. generators & fans) to facilitate aeration is installed prior to commencement of the fumigation.
  • An airtight seal to ensure effectiveness of the fumigation and site health and safety is created around the fumigation structure.
  • Application equipment and monitoring lines for follow-up of gas concentration are appropriate for the fumigation method and fumigant type, checked for functionality, and installed correctly according to the fumigation plan, legislative and company requirements.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and personal gas monitoring devices selected are appropriate to the hazards and risks identified and are checked for functionality in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Site security measures are put in place, including barricades and warning signs in accordance with regulations/standards.
  • Evacuation procedures are followed; placards/warning signs and barriers are placed to close off the respective area/s to everyone not participating in the fumigation.
  • Air-tight seals are checked and adjusted (where applicable) in fumigation enclosures in accordance with manufacturers' specifications, legislative, and company requirements.
  • Fumigation enclosures are treated using appropriate equipment, fumigants and fumigation methods in accordance with manufacturers' specifications, legislative, and company requirements.
  • Fumigation information is recorded and the fumigant log is signed.
  • Fumigation site is monitored for gas leaks and corrective actions are taken in accordance with environmental, legislative, Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) and company requirements.
  • Fumigation site surveillance procedures for safety and security are performed in accordance with legislative, OHS and company requirements.
  • Aeration operations are performed in accordance with legislative, OHS and company requirements.
  • Testing and verification of threshold limits are performed in accordance with product and legislative requirements.
  • Withholding/exposure periods after treatment for various situations are executed in accordance with legislative, OHS and company requirements.
  • Clean-up operations are performed and the site is restored in accordance with legislative, OHS and company requirements.
  • A written gas-free certificate (release document) is completed in accordance with legislative, OHS and company requirements.
  • Notifications to inform the customer and other appropriate person/s of fumigation completion is drawn up in accordance with legislative, OHS and company requirements.
  • Regulatory and company documentation is completed in accordance with legislative, OHS and company requirements.
  • Customer records are updated in accordance with legislative, OHS and company requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Site inspection procedures and safety measures are applied and site/structure measurements are taken in accordance with legislative, Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) and company requirements.
  • Pest presence and vulnerabilities to infestation are established according to standard industry practice by their biology, habits, habitats and evidence of their inhabiting an environment.
  • Pest identification procedures are followed and pests are identified correctly.
  • Assessment procedures of the suitability of facility/structure and/or commodity for chemical treatment including the risk factors associated with the pending chemical treatment are executed in accordance with legislative, OHS and company requirements.
  • The findings are accurately documented and appropriate recommendations are made in accordance with biosecurity protocols.
  • A structured and biosecurity conscious planning and preparation process is followed for the treatment of stored agricultural product pests in accordance with biosecurity protocol guidelines.
  • Notices are prepared notifying all stakeholders of the proposed treatment in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Warning signs for posting treated areas are prepared, and arrangements are made for security of the structure or building in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • A cost effective and practical pest management method that is acceptable to the customer and involves the lowest level of risk to the client, operator and environment is selected in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Pest management goals as they relate to prevention, suppression and eradication of pests is implemented in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Suitable pesticides are selected in accordance with the registration status for the identified pest, appropriate to the treatment method chosen, correct interpretation of pesticide label, and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) information.
  • The amount of fumigant required is calculated and applied in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • The Fumigation Management Plan inclusive of the Gas Monitoring Plan, incorporating all planning and scheduling, is compiled in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Potential hazards and the relevant safety measures to control risks are identified and addressed in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Structures are prepared and sealed off for fumigation in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Procedures and practices applied during pesticide application meets standards of health and safety protection of self and other parties involved in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Personal protective clothing and respiratory equipment is selected and used in accordance with manufacturer specifications and in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Bag, bulk, container/vehicle, closed circuit circulation fumigation and bulk spraying treatment processes to combat stored agricultural product pests are executed in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • The appropriate records/log sheets are completed in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Treated structure or enclosure is aerated in a safe and controlled manner in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Clean-up and the restoration of the treated site is executed in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Deactivation and disposal of fumigant residue is executed in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Pesticides are transported and stored in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Empty containers, collected waste and dead pests are disposed of in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Documentation is completed in accordance with legislative and company requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Pest identification procedures are followed and pests are identified correctly in terms of standard procedures.
  • Subterranean termites are identified correctly according to their physical characteristics, biology, behaviour and damage patterns.
  • Dry wood and damp wood termites are identified correctly according to their physical characteristics, biology, behaviour and damage patterns.
  • Wood-destroying insects and pests (powder post beetles, long horned beetles, black carpenter ants, carpenter bees and wood-damaging fungi) are identified correctly according to their physical characteristics, biology, behaviour and damage patterns.
  • Pest specimens and/or evidence collection methods correctly applied as specified for the establishment of wood destroying organism presence.
  • The impact of the wood destroying organism/s identified is assessed in accordance with assessment standards and procedures.
  • The need for and timing of a wood destroying organism management intervention is assessed in accordance with assessment standards and procedures.
  • A structured and biosecurity conscious planning and preparation process is followed for the treatment of wood destroying organisms in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Safety measures and procedures are applied to accepted standards and international norms.
  • Notices and safety warnings are prepared in accordance with pesticide application legislative requirements, and client and site personnel, adjoining properties and relevant authorities are advised of the planned treatment.
  • A cost effective and practical pest management method that is acceptable to the client and involves the lowest level of risk to the client, operator and environment is determined to accepted standards and international norms.
  • The pesticide selected for treatment is suitable and registered for the identified pest, appropriate to the treatment method chosen and relates to the correct interpretation of pesticide label, and MSDS information.
  • Application equipment appropriate for the treatment method and pesticide type is checked for functionality, and calibrated correctly according to the product, legislative and company requirements
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) is selected and is appropriate to the hazards and risks identified and checked for functionality in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Site security measures are put in place, including barricades and warning signs in accordance with regulations/standards.
  • The prepared pest management plan and checklists are referred to and followed during the treatment process.
  • Personal, public and environmental safety practices and procedures inclusive of correct use of protective clothing and equipment are adhered to during the pesticide application.
  • The building and/or area is treated using appropriate equipment, Institute of People Management (IPM) methods and/or pesticide treatments (broadcast or general, spot, crack and crevice, space, bait) and application methods in accordance with manufacturer specifications, legislative, and company requirements.
  • The procedures for incidents and/or spills and actions to be taken in accordance with manufacturer specifications, legislative, and company requirements are demonstrated
  • Baits and monitoring equipment are placed according to label directions and legislative requirements.
  • Faulty home construction and maintenance that may lead to infestation by subterranean termites, and structure design elements that reduce the potential for infestation by wood destroying organisms are explained.
  • Soil and pre-and post-construction treatment methods for subterranean termites are applied to accepted standards and international norms.
  • Remedial (secondary) wood treatment and preservation methods for wood-destroying organisms and subterranean termites are applied to accepted standards and international norms.
  • Treatment methods for dry wood and/or damp wood termites are applied to accepted standards and international norms.
  • Treatments for other wood-destroying insects (e. g. beetles, bees, wasps, and ants) are applied to accepted standards and international norms.
  • Chemical preventive and control treatments for wood-damaging fungi are applied to accepted standards and international norms.
  • Non-chemical remedial methods for the eradication of wood destroying organisms are applied to accepted standards and international norms.
  • Clean-up and the restoration of the treated site is executed in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Pesticides are transported and stored in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Empty containers, collected waste and dead pests are disposed of in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Certificates of treatments or markings (stamps), warranties and other applicable documentation is completed in accordance with legislative and company requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Weed and invader plant presence and vulnerabilities to infestation are identified and recorded in accordance with identification procedures and reference materials.
  • Methods for the collection of weed and invader plant specimens for identification and classification are applied in terms of standard industry practice.
  • Site measurements are taken and risks associated with the treatment are established and recorded according to standard industry practice.
  • Site familiarisation and evaluation of the environmental impact of the proposed treatment are applied in terms of standard industry practice.
  • The impact (problems or damage) of relevant weed and invader plant species identified is assessed and explained in terms of standard industry practice.
  • Documentation of the findings and recommendations is recorded in an inspection report that meets standard industry practice.
  • A structured and biosecurity conscious planning and preparation processes is followed for treatment of weeds and invader plants in terms of standard industry practice.
  • Plants (weeds) and other factors to be considered are explained in terms of biological terms and plant property standards.
  • Notices and safety warnings are prepared in accordance with pesticide application legislative requirements.
  • Withholding/exposure periods after treatment for various situations are applied in accordance with pesticide application legislative requirements.
  • Weed and invader plant management goals, methods and strategies are developed and recorded in accordance with pesticide application legislative requirements.
  • General precautionary measures to manage identified hazards and risks in a range of circumstances are applied in accordance with pesticide application legislative requirements.
  • Notifications, checklists and team briefing documents are prepared in accordance with pesticide application legislative requirements.
  • A structured weed and invader plant management implementation plan is compiled and incorporated in a proposal to the customer in terms of standard industry practice.
  • Methods inclusive of an integrated weed management approach for the control of weeds and invader plants are applied in accordance with pesticide application legislative requirements.
  • Weed management methods for lawns and other turf are demonstrated in terms of standard industry practice.
  • Woody plant, stump and tree management methods are applied in terms of standard industry practice.
  • Risks involved in weed management under high tension power lines, on and along roads, railway lines and other restricted areas is applied in accordance with pesticide application legislative requirements.
  • Management practices for areas with encroached bush are applied in terms of standard industry practice.
  • Aquatic weed management methods and principles are applied in terms of standard industry practice.
  • Calibration and safe operation of equipment is applied in accordance with pesticide application legislative requirements.
  • Warning signs and barriers are removed and all equipment, pesticides, debris, materials used are collected and the work site restored in accordance with environmental, legislative, Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) and company requirements.
  • Empty containers, used respiratory canisters and waste are collected in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are cleaned, decontaminated, safety-checked and stored in accordance with manufacturers' specifications and environmental, OHS and company requirements.
  • Pesticides are transported and stored in accordance with manufacturers' specifications and legislative, OHS and company requirements.
  • Empty containers, used respiratory canisters and waste are decontaminated and disposed of in accordance with manufacturers' specifications and legislative, OHS and company requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Pest presence and vulnerabilities to infestation are identified according to standard industry practice by their biology, habits, habitats and evidence of their inhabiting an environment.
  • Site/structure measurements are taken and risks associated with the treatment are established according to standard industry practice and recorded.
  • Pest identification procedures are followed and pests are identified correctly in terms of standard industry practice.
  • A structured and biosecurity conscious planning and preparation process is followed for the treatment of health and nuisance pests in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Notices and safety warnings are prepared in accordance with pesticide application legislative requirements, and customer and site personnel, adjoining properties.
  • A cost effective and practical pest management method that is acceptable to the client and involves the lowest level of risk to the client, operator and environment is determined in terms of standard industry practice.
  • The pesticide is selected and is suitable and registered for the identified pest, appropriate to the treatment method chosen and relates to the correct interpretation of pesticide label, and MSDS information.
  • Appropriate application equipment is for the treatment method and pesticide typeis checked for functionality, and calibrated correctly according to the product, legislative and company requirements.
  • PPE is selected and is appropriate to the hazards and risks identified and checked for functionality in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Site security measures are put in place, including barricades and warning signs in accordance with regulations/standards.
  • The prepared pest management plan and checklists are referred to and followed during the treatment process.
  • Personal, public and environmental safety practices and procedures inclusive of correct use of protective clothing and equipment are adhered to during the pesticide application according to the product, legislative and company requirements.
  • The building and/or area is treated using appropriate equipment, IPM methods and/or pesticide treatments (broadcast or general, spot, crack and crevice, space, bait) and application methods in accordance with manufacturer specifications, legislative, and company requirements.
  • The procedures for incidents and/or spills and actions to be taken to address these are put in place in accordance with manufacturer specifications, legislative, and company requirements.
  • Baits and monitoring equipment are placed according to label directions and legislative requirements.
  • Baits and/or pesticides are removed, transported and stored and empty containers and waste are collected and disposed of in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Warning signs and barriers are removed in accordance with legislative and company requirements
  • Equipment is cleaned, decontaminated, safety-checked transported and stored in accordance with legislative and company requirements
  • The work site is clean-up and restored in accordance with the work order and company requirements.
  • Empty containers, collected waste and dead pests are disposed of in accordance with legislative and company requirements.
  • Certificates of treatments or markings (stamps), warranties and other applicable documentation are completed in accordance with legislative and company requirements.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development provider 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 external integrated summative assessment.

    Integrated Summative Assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (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. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Comparability studies were conducted against international protocols, learning programs and qualifications. The Orlando Protocol, standards developed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), qualifications offered by the British Royal Society for Health and the British Pest Control Association, as well as standards registered on the Australian and New Zealand qualifications frameworks were selected.

    The South African Pest Management Industry regards the Orlando Protocol of 2002 (the Charter for World-Wide Professional Environmental Pest Management) as the best practices framework for all pest management operations.

    The standards developed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Royal Society for Health and the British Pest Control Association was selected based on their relevance as an example of certification and licensing of pest control officers.

    The Australian and New Zealand standards are comparable with qualifications registered on a national qualifications framework.

    The Orlando Protocol:
    The Orlando Protocol of 2002, A Charter for World-Wide Professional Environmental Pest Management is regarded as a best practices model for all pest control operations by the South African Industry.

    The key principles of the Orlando Protocol of 2002 is as follows:
    Integrated pest management: Achieve effective pest management and minimize the potential for exposure to pesticide by adhering to the principles of Integrated Pest Management. In particular, protect all people and especially children, from the adverse effects of pests in such a manner that does not pose any undue risk to their safety through the use of pesticides to control pests and diseases.

    Training and education: Every manager is responsible for the application of pesticides, and every technician who applies pest management products, should be verifiably trained to ensure appropriate, effective and safe application of the products, in addition to appropriate knowledge of the pests to be controlled.

    Work safety: Every pest control technician, or enterprise, should act during the execution of its work in a way such that it neither causes injury or damage to any other person, or to himself.
    Environmental protection: Pest management products should be transported, stored, mixed and disposed of in a manner which preserves the quality of the ecosystem, including soil, water and endangered species.

    Waste reduction: Efforts by government agencies and the industry to encourage the minimization of waste and the safe disposal of products and their packaging.

    Provision of information: An open approach to the provision of appropriate information to the general public on public health pesticides and pest management techniques.

    Research: Increased public and private funding for the development of effective, reduced-risk products and technologies for the management of all public health and nuisance pests.
    Government regulation: Operate within the legislative framework of state, regional and national governments, whilst encouraging governments to take account of the pest control industry`s views and expertise.

    Product registration: The independent registration of pesticides by Government agencies and the control of the use of new and existing compounds based upon assessments using contemporary scientific standards.

    Harmonization of registrations: All governments are encouraged to work towards a common approach to pesticide registration.

    Social responsibility: The industry must act beyond the arena of pest management alone. The industry seeks to observe and promote the well-being of those people employed within it, whilst fostering and promoting an attitude of social responsibility. The industry must aim to ensure that the results of their labour contribute to the development of a better and healthier society, whilst offering those who work within the industry pride in their achievements and the knowledge that their endeavours serve to create a better world.

    United States Standards:
    The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set forth standards for the registration of applicators delivering pest management services.

    EPA-approved commercial applicator programs are acknowledged by all states in the United States of America (USA) for the issuance of certification and licensing. Commercial applicators/operators must take and pass a written examination covering their specific category(s) to become certified; thereafter they must also apply for and receive a license from the Division of Pesticides, Department of Agriculture. The EPA-approved program, Category 8 Public Health Pest Control: for applicators involved in public health programs or in general control of human health-related pests is comparable to this qualification.

    The program includes:
  • The control of insect pests such as flies, mosquitoes, fleas, bedbugs, spiders, cockroaches, ticks, rodents, and other public health pests.
  • The use of pesticides to disinfect or sterilize medical/veterinary equipment, food/beverage/drug processing equipment.
  • The environmental pest control services of such places as hospitals/nursing homes, food processing areas, and similar environments.

    British Standards:
    The Royal Society for Health and the British Pest Control Association registered a Level 2 Certificate in Pest Management (Qualification Number 500/8978/X) designed to provide an understanding of public health pests and their management.

    This Level 2 qualification fulfils the legal requirement relating to the training of pest control technicians as set out in the Control of Pesticides Regulations 1986. The syllabus covers the management of rodents, non-rodent mammals, birds and invertebrates, Health and Safety and Accident Prevention, legislation and customer care. Both theoretical and practical aspects of pest management are covered in this qualification, which includes two units devoted to pest management techniques.

    The qualification is divided into five units (Vertebrate Pest Management, Invertebrate Pest Management, Health, Safety and Legal Aspects of Pest Management, Techniques for the Management of Vertebrate Pests and Techniques for the Management of Invertebrate Pests).

    The learning outcomes of this program are as follows:
  • Recognise and state damage caused by a specified pest species.
  • Identify possible implications from the damage caused.
  • Identify chosen species at different levels of maturity.
  • Assess environmental sensitivity.
  • Identify typical habitats.
  • Explain natural population control.
  • Identify nature and source of pest infestation at a given site.
  • Carry out and implement a practical Risk Assessment.
  • Assess the environmental status of the given site.
  • Identify non-target species present.
  • Demonstrate a range of control methods, including the use of harmful substances/poisons.
  • Clear up after the operation and complete appropriate records.

    New Zealand Standards:
    A number of qualifications have been registered under the New Zealand Qualification framework at levels 3 and 4. These qualifications are aligned to the management of specific pests such as:
  • Compliance and Regulatory Control (Vertebrate Pest Management) (Level 4) (Ref: 0531).
  • Compliance and Regulatory Control (Pest Plant Control) (Level 4) (Ref: 0529).
  • National Certificate in Urban Pest Management with specific electives for fumigation, vertebrate pests, wood borer, shooting, bird control, and textile pests (Levels 2 or 3) (Ref: 0256).

    These qualifications include a number of unit standards such as:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of safety with agrichemicals.
  • Use, maintain, and store agrichemical application safety equipment.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of biology and environmental impact as a pest species.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of biology and environmental impact as a pest species.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act, and New Zealand Standards (NZS) 8409:2004 for the use of agrichemicals.
  • Interview to collect evidence.
  • Apply Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992.
  • Communicate with clients in a compliance context.
  • Manage vertebrate pest programme.
  • Establish, collect evidence, and write a report for a compliance breach.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of vertebrate pest monitoring methods.

    Australian Standards:
    Two qualifications registered on the Australian Qualifications Framework are comparable to the scope and content of this qualification:
  • PRM20298 Certificate II in Asset Maintenance (Pest Management - Technical).
  • PRM30298 Certificate III in Asset Maintenance (Pest Management Technical).

    Units of learning included in the Asset Maintenance qualification include:
  • Respond to customer inquiry.
  • Assess pest management options.
  • Prepare and present a submission for pest management program.
  • Modify environment to manage pests.
  • Apply pesticides to manage pests.
  • Establish and monitor a preventative pest management program.
  • Inform and educate clients on pest management.
  • Resolve client`s pest management problems.
  • Repair and maintain service equipment.
  • Maintain an equipment and consumables storage area.
  • Select, set up and control a pest management vehicle.
  • Elective Units:
  • Inspect and report on timber pests.
  • Control timber pests.
  • Eradicate pests through fumigation.
  • Organise and monitor pest management operations.
  • Select and obtain pest management equipment and materials.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification establishes a South African standard for the training, assessment and certification of Pest Management Officers, and both the scope and content of this qualification support the principles stipulated in the Orlando Protocol. This qualification is comparable to the learning programmes currently provided by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and all states in the USA, the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health and the British Pest Control Association in the United Kingdom, as well as the qualifications registered on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework and the Australian Qualifications Framework. The South African qualifications for Pest Management Officers are specifically aligned to the regulatory environment and associated P-Registration requirements. In accordance with the regulatory framework, a Pest Management Officer must be registered in one or more specific fields of expertise or pest management application. This qualification is structured to address this by means of a number of components that are generic for all pest management officers and a number of components that are specific to the fields of expertise included as part qualifications.

    As a whole, the scope and content of this qualification compares well with the more generic learning areas included in some of the international qualifications. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • National Certificate in Environmental Management, Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma in Environmental Health, Level 6.
  • National Diploma in Environmental Health, Level 6.
  • National Diploma in Environmental Health, Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required knowledge and practical modules by means of statements of results and a record of completed work experience.

    The Foundational Learning Competence (FLC) Certificate is not a requirement

    Additional legal or physical entry requirements:
  • None specified.

    Criteria for the Accreditation of Providers:
  • Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) website.

    The curriculum title and code is: 335904000: Pest Management Officer.

    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
  • This is not a trade.

    Part Qualifications:
    None. 
    		•

    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.
     
    NONE 


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