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: 

Install, use and perform basic rescues from fall arrest systems and implement the fall protection plan 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
229995  Install, use and perform basic rescues from fall arrest systems and implement the fall protection plan 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Hiring Services 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 11 - Services Cleaning, Domestic, Hiring, Property and Rescue Services 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
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 
Learners wishing to acquire the competencies in this standard will be people working at height where there is a risk of injury from a fall. Learners will be involved in performing tasks at height. Qualifying learners are able to take responsibility for inspection and installation of fall arrest systems and for implementing fall protection plans and rescues.

The qualifying learner is capable of:
  • Explaining the use of a range of fall arrest equipment and knowledge of applicable regulations.
  • Explaining and using basic rope knots.
  • Installing and using fall arrest systems.
  • Inspecting and assembling fall arrest equipment and systems.
  • Interpreting and implementing a fall protection plan.
  • Performing basic fall arrest rescues to bring a casualty down to safety.

    In order for a successful learner of this standard to be able to function in a rope access operation, the learner must be medically fit and in possession of a medical certificate, declaring him/her free from a condition that may prevent him/her from working safely as specified in the range statement. (An example of the content of the medical certificate is available in SABS 0333:2 Annex A). 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Learners assessing this unit standard will have demonstrated competence in:
  • Communication at NQF Level 1 or equivalent.
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 1 or equivalent. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
  • The scope of this unit standard is for any person who needs to perform work at height where the learner will work under supervision.
  • In the context of this unit standards fall arrest refers to the principles needed to perform work at height safely. It applies to situations where work is performed at a height where there is risk of injury from a fall. In legislation the height is considered to be 3m above ground level.

    Range statements that refer to assessment criteria
  • This unit standard is suitable for performing work at height under supervision.
  • Basic knots include double figure of eight, figure of eight on the bight and a figure stopper knot.
  • Compatibility of equipment of include but is not limited to size of anchor, sharp items, prevent damage, point loading, size of hook.
  • Connectors include but are not limited to maillons, locking karabiner, double action snap hook, pylon hook, double action scaffold hook.
  • Energy absorber includes fall arrest harness and work positioning system.
  • Fall arrest equipment include personal equipment, full body harness, deceleration devices, lifelines, helmet, work positioning system, lanyard and energy absorber, shock absorbing lanyard, retractable life-line. It excludes body belts.
  • Fall arrest system includes energy absorbing lanyard including 2 singles, v-type, double legged lanyard or double lanyard.
  • Fall prevention equipment includes personal equipment, body harness, body belt, lanyard, lifelines, physical equipment, including but not limited to guardrails, screens, barricades, anchorages.
  • Fall protection plan includes risk assessment, procedures to address risks, evaluation of fitness (physical and psychological), training, inspection testing and maintenance of fall arrest equipment.
  • Hardware includes connectors, maillons, locking karabiner, and double action hooks. Inspection criteria for hardware include checking hardware for damage, deformation and functioning.
  • Hazards include but are not limited to potential falls of persons, material, equipment, strong winds, fumes, electricity and so forth).
  • Lanyards include single legged lanyards, work-positioning lanyards.
  • Legislation governing the safety of work at height includes awareness of the existence of legislation and regulations.
  • Medically fit means learners should be free from any disability that may prevent them from working safely. These include but are not limited to heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, fits and blackouts, fear of heights, giddiness or difficulty with balance, impaired limb function, alcohol or drug dependence, psychiatric illness, and diabetes. Physical and psychological fitness necessary to work at elevated positions.
  • PPE include but is not limited to helmets with a chinstrap, gloves, goggles, safety footwear, close-fitting overalls or items specified for the task. Inspection criteria for helmets include damage, intact chinstrap.
  • Risks while awaiting rescues can include suspension trauma, position, physical injury, injury from hot surfaces, electricity, fumes, water. Feet to be kept moving to prevent reduced flow of blood to the brain that can lead to unconsciousness or death.
  • Slings include but are not limited to certified tape slings, wire slings and rope slings.
  • Unassisted rescues without ropes include but is not limited to inertia reels, rope blocks, chain blocks, ladders, cherry pickers).
  • Software includes harness, work positioning harness, and absorbing lanyard. Inspection criteria for software include checking stitching, webbing, identification or labels, buckles, D-rings and connectors. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Explain the use of a range of fall arrest equipment and knowledge of applicable regulations. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Fall arrest equipment in this unit standard include full body harness, helmet, work positioning system, lanyard and energy absorber, shock absorbing lanyard, retractable life-line, inertia reels, equipment identified in rescue plan, temporary vertical and horizontal life-lines. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The difference between a full body harness and a work positioning system is explained with examples when each will be used. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The full range of the fall arrest equipment in this outcome is identified and their uses explained with examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The limitations and use of fall arrest equipment and fall arrest connectors are explained using examples of their use according to manufacturer's instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The risks of using non-energy absorbing lanyard are explained, based on safety practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The use of a fall arrest system on a rigid and flexible anchorage line is explained considering the limitations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    A range of rescue equipment is identified and their use explained with examples. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Explain and use basic rope knots. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Knots required for fall arrest are tied and practical use thereof demonstrated with examples. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Knots required include but is not limited to figure 8 stopper, double figure 8, figure 8 on a bight, klemheist.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The range of fall arrest rescue equipment is identified and the use explained with examples. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Includes rope grabs, pulleys, fall arrest winch, rigging plates, ropes, edge protectors.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Tying of a klemheist knot is demonstrated and its uses are explained with examples. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Install and use fall arrest systems. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Includes temporary horizontal lifelines, temporary vertical lifelines, permanent horizontal lifelines, permanent vertical lifelines. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The installations of horizontal and vertical lifelines are demonstrated, according tomanufacturer's recommendations, the number of people and the suitability of anchor points. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Includes for horizontal life lines at least temporary lifelines and could include permanent lifelines.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Safe use of anchors is explained in terms of cross-loading connectors, selecting anchors and safe angles of attachment for slings. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The fall arrest system is set up to meet minimum free space clearance requirements or the use of retractable lifelines. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The switchover to a lifeline from a double lanyard is performed following safe practices and the difference between the procedure for a vertical and horizontal lifeline described with examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The requirements of a permanent fall arrest system are explained based on manufacturer's instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Ways to reduce the fall distance and the rescue after a fall are described and the reasons explained with examples. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Inspect and assemble fall arrest equipment and systems. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Items to be inspected include a wide range of fall arrest equipment excluding those for advanced rescues, and the equipment that make up fall arrest systems. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Own and team member's personal fall arrest equipment and Personal Protective Equipment are inspected assembled and fitted according to inspection criteria and equipment instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Reporting of suspect equipment is explained according to worksite procedure. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The reasons why fall arrest equipment may not be repaired without manufacturer's approval are explained according to legal/safety requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The reasons for using certificated and identified fall arrest equipment are explained with examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The difference between an activated energy absorbing lanyard and an intact lanyard is visually determined and the reason for not using an activated energy-absorbing lanyard is explained according to safety requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The requirements for equipment storage and inspection records are described according to legal and storage requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Interpret and implement a fall protection plan. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Fall protection plan in this unit standard includes risk assessment, evaluation of people's fitness, inspection of equipment, training programme. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The purpose and components of a fall protection plan are described and interpreted with examples. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Includes but is not limited to risk assessment, procedures and methods, evaluation of personnel.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The duties of a person supervising a team are explained with examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The main possible hazards associated with work at height and worksites are listed with examples. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Includes but is not limited to clearance, minimum free space, falling objects, moving objects, heat, fumes, and weather-conditions.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Changes in weather conditions and physical conditions that can affect the safety of the team are explained with examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The reasons for updating and adapting a fall protection plan is explained with examples. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Perform basic fall arrest rescues to bring a casualty down to safety. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Rope rescue system is securely anchored in terms of safe anchor points, correct tying and use of all the basic knots. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Descending of rope is done using a double locking action-descending device. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    An assisted rope rescue of a conscious casualty is performed using a double locking action descending device. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    An unassisted rope rescue of an unconscious casualty suspended in space is performed and alternatives to rope rescues are described with examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The way and reasons for maintaining communication with a casualty are explained with examples of the consequences. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The causes and risks of suspension trauma are explained with examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The reasons for applying first aid and immediately calling for medical back-up are explained considering potential injury and locations. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Any institution or provider offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard must be accredited by the relevant ETQA.
  • To assess competency, an assessor must be registered by the relevant ETQA as an assessor.
  • Internal and external Moderation of the assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines outlined in the relevant qualification and agreed ETQA procedures.
  • Assessors will need to be assessed as competent against the unit standards:
    > Perform a range of advanced fall arrest rescues.
    > Assess a worksite for work at height and prepare a fall protection plan. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
  • Fall arrest equipment and limitations.
  • Fall factors and shock loading.
  • Content of fall protection plans and legislation governing work at height.
  • Knowledge of suspension trauma. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems related to the installation, use and performing basic rescues form fall arrest systems. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others in the implementation of fall protection plans. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organize and manage oneself and one's activities when installing and using fall arrest systems. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively with others when inspecting and assembling fall arrest equipment and systems. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO CONTRIBUTING 
    Contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the society at large by:
  • Participating as a responsible citizen in the life of local, national and global communities.
  • Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts. 
    		•

    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 
    Supplementary Information:

    Definition of terms:
  • Double action snap hook refers to a connector with a self closing and self or manual locking facility.
  • Engineered anchor point refers to an anchor point that has been specifically designed taking into account the material and the loads. Some international standards require these to withstand forces of/equivalent to 6x2= 12kN. Example -sufficiently strong enough to lift an "Uno".
  • Fall arrest equipment refers to equipment used to stop (arrest) the person in a fall from an elevated position.
  • Fall prevention equipment refers to equipment used to prevent persons from falling from an elevated position.
  • Hazard identification refers to identification and documentation of existing or expected hazards (things that can cause harm) to the health and safety of persons which are normally associated with the type of work being performed.
  • Non-Engineered anchor points refer to an anchor point that has not specifically been designed as an anchor point. It could include railings or structures. Some international standards require these to have an additional safety factor and to withstand a force of/equivalent to 22kN. Sufficiently strong enough to lift a "four by four" vehicle.
  • Locking karabiner refers to a type of metal shackle or clip formed by a complete loop with a spring loaded entry gate which is safeguarded in the closed position by a screw-closed sleeve.
  • Lanyard refers to a rope made of synthetic fibre, wire, webbing or chain in accordance to SANS 354.
  • Legislation governing the safety of work at height refers to the Occupational Health and safety act (Act 85 of 1993 and its amendments).
  • PPE or personal protective equipment refers to any device or appliance designed to be worn or held by an individual for protection against potential hazard. Helmet SABS EN 397/SANS 50397, Suitable helmets need to conform to the requirements in SABS/EN 397.

    References
  • Occupational Health and safety act (Act 85 of 1993) including construction regulations GNR 1010 of 8 July 2003. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  57937   General Education and Training Certificate: Hygiene and Cleaning  Level 1  NQF Level 01  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  SERVICES 
    Elective  65789   National Certificate: Construction Plant Operations  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  CETA 
    Elective  59729   National Certificate: Mechanical Handling (Rigging)  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 


    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.
     
    1. Aveng Grinaker -LTA Civil Engineering 
    2. Dynalift CC 
    3. Elite Operator and Skills Training 
    4. imithetho labour law 
    5. Mavco Engineering 
    6. MOLOKO SMALL ENTERPRISE 
    7. Powerpro Technologies and Training Facility (PTY) LTD 
    8. Starcrow 36 Bk 
    9. TOP PERFORMERS FOR AFRICA CC 
    10. Training Force (Pty) Ltd 
    11. Transvaal Training 


    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.