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 UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Perform fault-finding and repairs on an electrical railway signal 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
116890  Perform fault-finding and repairs on an electrical railway signal 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Electrical Engineering & Construction 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction Electrical Infrastructure Construction 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  7 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
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 unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
A learner credited with this unit standard will be able to perform fault-finding and repairs on an electrical railway signal by applying signalling engineering practice. This will restore the functionality of the electrical railway signals, which will contribute in part to a reliable railway signalling system, safe and efficient train operations and effective rail transportation. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • Communication NQF L3.
  • Mathematics NQF L3.
  • Knowledge of the principles of electricity.
  • Knowledge of electro-mechanical principles.
  • Understand basic electronic theory and components
  • Knowledge of the company rules and regulations applicable when performing infrastructure maintenance in the vicinity of or near exposed "live" high-voltage overhead track equipment.
  • Apply train working rules as applicable to railway signalling maintenance personnel when working on or in the vicinity of operational railway lines.
  • Principles of train operating methods and railway signalling.
  • Ability to use engineering hand and power tools.
  • Knowledge and use of electrical measuring instruments.
  • Knowledge of and ability to assemble, wire and install an electrical railway signal.
  • Knowledge of and ability to perform RPM on an electrical railway signal.
  • Knowledge of and ability to perform CPM on an electrical railway signal.
  • Knowledge of and ability to perform CPM on an apparatus case. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    The credit value assigned to this unit standard is appropriate because performance must be carried out:
    1. In a controlled environment.
    2. Within a specified time depending on the nature of the fault and repair.
    3. At a field site (might or might not include overhead traction equipment).
    4. Under simulated or actual operational conditions.

    When overhead traction equipment is present, the learner must have a valid certificate related to high-voltage equipment, which certifies the learner to work under specific conditions and within a specified area.
    Fault-finding on an electrical railway signal comprises the complete signal pole assembly (including all electrical components) and the electrical signal control circuit.

    This standard includes:
    Fault-finding and repairs on the following types of electrical railway signals:
  • Single-position light shunt signal.
  • Two-position light shunt signal.
  • Running-shunt signal.
  • Three-aspect signal.
  • Multi-aspect signal.
  • Searchlight signal.
  • Route/direction indicator.
  • Gantry signal.

    This standard excludes:
  • Mechanical railway signals.
  • Routine preventive maintenance.
  • Corrective preventive maintenance.
  • Electrical railway signal faults caused by faults within interlocking and/or remote control systems. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Plan and procure the resources required to perform fault-finding and repair tasks on an electrical railway signal safely and correctly. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Job order is interpreted to establish the relevant resources required to perform fault-finding and repair tasks on an electrical railway signal. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The correct plans and/or diagrams for fault-finding and repairs on an electrical railway signal are utilised. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The correct resource requirements are determined and obtained to perform fault-finding and repair tasks on an electrical railway signal. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The resources are verified against material specifications and sub-standards rectified. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Diagnose and locate a fault on an electrical railway signal. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Information relevant to the fault-finding task is gathered by:
  • Observing and/or obtaining control and display panel indications.
  • Reading and interpreting circuit diagrams, plans and manuals.
  • Measuring and testing relevant equipment.
  • Visual observation of the condition, status and operation of equipment.
  • Referring to previous equipment repair/maintenance records.
  • Communication with relevant role players. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The gathered information is logically interpreted and analysed. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The correct diagnostic techniques are used, by applying signalling engineering practice. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The fault is timeously and correctly located. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The relevant safe working procedures are adhered to. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Company-specific specifications and instructions are adhered to. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Unforeseen circumstances related to the fault diagnosing and location process are addressed effectively. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Repair the faulty electrical railway signal. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Repair tasks are correctly prioritised and planned. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Repair tasks are completed timeously, safely and according to signalling engineering practice. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The correct repair techniques are used, by applying signalling engineering practice. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The preparation and execution of repair tasks are supervised effectively when applicable. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The relevant safe working procedures are adhered to. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Company-specific specifications and instructions are adhered to. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Unforeseen circumstances related to the repair of the faulty electrical railway signal and operational changes are addressed effectively. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    The correct resource requirements are determined and obtained to perform the repair tasks. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
    The resources are verified against material specifications and sub-standards rectified. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Perform relevant functional tests to verify the correct operation of the repaired equipment and re-instate the electrical railway signal. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The correct functional testing procedures are applied to prove that the repaired electrical railway signal and any other potentially affected equipment is functioning correctly. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Deviations from standards are correctly identified, prioritised and rectified. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Unforeseen circumstances related to the functional testing and re-instatement of an electrical railway signal is addressed effectively. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Re-instatement of the electrical railway signal is done as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The relevant safe working procedures are adhered to. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Company-specific specifications and instructions are adhered to. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Communicate with control and/or relevant role players before, during and on completion of the fault-finding and repair process and complete all applicable documentation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Relevant documentation related to the fault-finding and repair process for the electrical railway signal is completed according to procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Instructions related to the fault-finding and repair process on an electrical railway signal are communicated clearly and concisely to subordinates. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The fault-finding and repair process of an electrical railway signal is communicated and co-ordinated with all relevant role players. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Specific communication protocol with relevant role players is adhered to when applicable (e.g. Operating and Protection Personnel). 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Relevant communication media is used according to company policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Communication is clear and concise. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Restore the site as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The site is restored as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    All equipment housing lids, doors, covers, locks, etc. are replaced and secured as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Hazardous and waste material is safely disposed of as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Material, equipment and tools are returned for storage or repair as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
    1. An individual wishing to be assessed against this unit standard may apply to an assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that has been accredited by the relevant ETQA.
    2. Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
    3. Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard must be registered and accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA as prescribed.
    4. Moderation of assessment will be done by the relevant ETQA as prescribed.
    5. Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be certified as competent against this unit standard and registered as an assessor to assess this unit standard. 

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    The learners can understand and explain the following related to fault-finding and repair procedures on electrical railway signals:
  • Planning and procurement.
  • Station layout plans.
  • Plans, circuit diagrams and symbols.
  • Signal control circuits.
  • Signal control sheets as applicable to fault-finding and repair.
  • The correct functional testing procedures.
  • Various types of electrical signals and the meaning of the aspects.
  • Identification, purpose, function and operation of the parts and components of electrical signals.
  • Function of the specific signal in the signalling installation.
  • Impact of signal failures on operational efficiency.
  • Fitting methods.
  • Fault-finding and repair procedures.
  • Materials required for fault-finding and repair procedures.
  • Re-instatement procedures.
  • Restoration of site.
  • Relevant extracts from:
  • OHS Act and regulations.
  • Safe working procedures.
  • Company-specific policies, procedures and instructions. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Problem-solving.
    Learners can solve problems with regard to:
  • The correctness, quantity and quality of material, parts and components.
  • The suitability and functionality of equipment and tools.
  • Fault-finding and repair procedures on electrical railway signals. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Team work.
    Learners can work effectively in teams when:
  • Implementing safe working procedures.
  • Performing fault-finding and repair procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Self-organisation and self-management.
    A learner can organise and manage himself by:
  • Executing the task responsibly.
  • Maintaining a high level of discipline.
  • Adherence to time frames.
  • Adherence to safety and company-specific policies and procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Information evaluation.
    Learners can interpret and evaluate the contents of:
  • A job order.
  • Plans.
  • Electrical circuit diagrams and symbols.
  • Fault-finding and repair procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communication
  • Learners can communicate effectively with relevant role-players related to the fault-finding and repair process. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use of science and technology.
    Learners can use science and technology by using:
  • Test instruments.
  • Electric tools.
  • Communication media. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Inter-relatedness of systems
  • Learners can understand the role of the electrical railway signal in a railway signalling system. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO CONTRIBUTING 
    Learner and societal development.
    Learners can understand the importance of:
  • Safety in the workplace as well as in the whole environment.
  • Being a team player in the work environment and in society.
  • Communicating effectively in the work environment and in society.
  • Their responsibility for the safety and well-being of fellow-workers and society at large. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

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

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    Assessment process:

    Assessment methods:

    1. Written tests.
    2. Practical test.
    3. Oral questioning.
    4. Observation of practical task execution.
    5. Simulation.
    6. Role-play/structured classroom discussions and oral tests.
    7. Practical verification against specifications.

    These methods must be selected carefully based on the purpose of the assessment (for example, the written method could be used to assess knowledge or on-the-job demonstration for practical competence). The assessment must integrate a number of different methods (no less than three of those detailed above) in order to give the assessor reliable and valid proof of competence and evidence of required attitudes.

    The following may be used to supplement the above minimum assessment methods:

    Valid, reliable and authentic evidence (presented as a portfolio of evidence) from past achievements and experience may serve to supplement the assessment of applied competence. The portfolio should include inter alia:

    1. Written statements from persons (e.g. current and/or previous employer, colleague, peer, manager, external customers) confirming competence of the learner.
    2. Relevant certificates or awards.
    3. Previous assessment records.
    4. Logbook or register stating evidence of performance.

    Values:
    In addition, the following values should be demonstrated:
  • Safety consciousness.
  • Responsibility.
  • Integrity.
  • Quality consciousness.
  • Time consciousness.
  • Sobriety.
  • Decisiveness.

    Supplementary information:

    Terminology

    Job order refers to:
  • Job card.
  • Job instruction.
    Diagram refers to a drawing or plan.
    Site refers to field location.

    Communication can include, but is not limited to:
  • Personnel structures, e.g. supervisors and subordinates.
  • Verification of messages/instructions.

    Communication media can include, but is not limited to:
  • 2-way radios.
  • Cellular phones.
  • Trunk radios.
  • Hand-held emergency telephones.

    Lifting equipment refers to block and tackle and rope.
    Overhead traction equipment (OHTE) refers to the high-voltage equipment used to power electric locomotives.
    Operational changes refer to changes in circumstances under which the work is performed.
    Electrical Signal Control Circuit means the electrical circuit and associated equipment that directly controls the aspects of the electrical railway signal.
    Re-instatement refers to the certification that the equipment is restored back to its original operational state according to specifications.

    Certification

    The learner will be certified as competent when fault-finding and repairs was successfully performed on at least one from each of the following categories of electrical railway signals:
  • Shunt signals.
  • Running signals.
  • Route/direction indicators.

    Note: Proof of competence must include an on-site assessment of fault-finding and repair tasks executed under operational conditions.

    Credits
    Total hours required by the learner to achieve the required outcomes:

    Activity
  • Theory-24 Hours
  • Practical-24 Hours
  • Self-directed learning-6 Hours
  • On-the-job learning-6 Hours
  • Assessment-6 Hours
    Total-66 Hours

    Credits achieved: 7 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  49067   Further Education and Training Certificate: Railway Signalling: Fault-finding and Repair of Equipment  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  TETA 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    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.