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: 

Operate heavy crane 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
242982  Operate heavy crane 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Transport and Logistics Operations 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 11 - Services Transport, Operations and Logistics 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 3  NQF Level 03  14 
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
2026-06-30   2029-06-30  

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 
The person credited with this unit standard is able to identify the safety and suitability of crane type prior to utilisation while applying methods of inspecting and recording the operational fitness of all components of the crane. Learners are also able to operate heavy canes in a safe and competent manner.

The qualifying learner is capable of:
  • Identifying the safety and suitability of crane type prior to utilisation thereof, giving consideration to freight characteristics, equipment manufactures requirements and environmental conditions.
  • Applying the recognised methods for inspecting and recording the operational fitness of all components of the crane with reference to safety procedures in the workplace.
  • Operating the heavy crane in a safe and competent manner.
  • Accessing available support and emergency services in the case of incidents and accidents. 

  • LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners accessing this unit standard will have demonstrated competence in:
  • Communication at NQF Level 2 or equivalent.
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 2 or equivalent.
  • Crane operators that drive on Public Roads will require the relevant driver's license, in accordance with the National Road Traffic Act requirements.
  • The operator must be declared physically fit and have passed an eyesight test (such as the Orthorator test, the Purdue University Test No. 3, etc.), or a current PrDP, as well as industry recognised depth perception, speed of reflexes and hand-eye co-ordination tests, prior to commencement of training. 

  • UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    The applied competence expressed in this standard covers one specific crane of a range of heavy crane types (capacity and functionality) used in familiar operational functions in any industry context, and in a range of environmental conditions (e.g. poor weather).

    Cranes shall include:
  • Gantry Crane:

    > Overhead Pendant Controlled.
    > Overhead Infrared Controlled.
    > Overhead Radio Controlled.
    > Overhead Cab controlled.
    > Block and tackle.
  • Mobile Crane:

    > Truck mounted crane.
    > Hydraulic mobile crane.
    > Hydraulic crane pick up and carry crane.
    > Lattice boom mobile crane.
    > Crawler crane.
  • Jib Crane:

    > Floating crane.
    > Tower cranes (top slewing and bottom slewing).
    > Dock cranes.
    > Ship-mounted crane.
    > Straddle carrier.
    > Container stacker.

    Attachments shall include:
  • P: Fly Jib.
  • Q: Boom Extension.
  • R: Counterweight Options.
  • S: Tandem Lifts.
  • T: Special Categories. 

  • Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Identify the safety and suitability of crane type prior to utilisation thereof, giving consideration to freight characteristics, equipment manufacturers' requirements and environmental conditions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Safety and suitability of crane types prior to utilisation is identified according to crane requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Statutory regulations, and equipment manufacturers' requirements are identified and explained with examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Different type of cranes are listed and their purpose explained with examples. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Apply the recognised methods for inspecting and recording the operational fitness of all components of the crane with reference to safety procedures in the workplace. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Measures used to identify and prevent basic faults of heavy cranes are identified and listed according to safety procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Operational fitness of all components are inspected according to manufacturers checklist. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Operational fitness of crane components are recorded according to organisational policies and procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Operate the heavy crane in a safe and competent manner. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Heavy cranes are operated in a safe and competent manner. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Dangerous situations arising in various conditions are identified and explained with examples. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Dangerous situations could include but are not limited to: weather, noise, lighting conditions, load swings, shock loading, visibility.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The purpose of the various controls are explained in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Access available support systems and emergency services in case of incidents and accidents. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Support systems and emergency services are sourced in case of incidents and accidents according to organisational procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The most appropriate course of action is explained in relation to safe working practices and procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The most appropriate course of action is explained in relation to safe working practices and potential hazards in the working environment. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • An individual wishing to be assessed (including through RPL) against this unit standard may apply to an assessment agency, assessor or provider institution accredited by the relevant ETQA.
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard or assessing this unit standard must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be conducted by the relevant ETQA at its discretion. 

  • UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    The following embedded knowledge is addressed in an integrated way in the unit standard:
  • The differences in range, structure, function and capacity between LIGHT and HEAVY cranes
  • The requirement for certification which verifies the safety of the crane, as defined in legislation (Driven Machinery Regulation 18) by a "competent authority".
  • The pre-operational and operational and 'close down' checks for the components of the specific heavy crane.
  • The principles of lifting weights and the variances of safe capacities according to load chart and/or range diagrams (e.g. Manufacturer's specifications).
  • Safe and correct slinging methods that can be used with package types normally dealt with by HEAVY cranes.
  • Knowledge of pre-trip inspection, operating, shut down and parking of equipment.
  • Handling equipment capacity, rating and operation i.e. using the correct equipment for the correct mass, as well as the principles of operation.
  • Safety precautions in operating the equipment for particular product types.
  • Safety measures, and in the event of incidents and accidents, procedures to be followed.
  • The relevant national and international standards, codes and legislation pertaining to the selected area of specialisation.

    > Codes:
    > IMDG code.

    > Regulations/legislation:
    > OHS Act.
    > Environmental control regulations e.g. on lead control, asbestos.
    > Air pollution legislation.
    > Emergency procedures as reflected in legislation.
    > Customs and international regulations requirements related to HG logistics.

    > Standards:
    > ISO 9002/9004. 

  • UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking when analysing the load chart/range diagram to ensure the correct selection of lifting equipment, for a safe lifting operation. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate knowledge of various load weight, size and type for the purpose of selecting and utilising the most appropriate (safe and efficient) method of operating. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrate initiative in selecting the most appropriate gear and equipment dependent on crane types, freight characteristics and environmental conditions. 

    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 
    N/A 

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  48794   National Certificate in Quality Checking of Tyres and Tyre Components  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  71989   National Certificate: Automotive Components: Manufacturing and Assembly  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  58862   National Certificate: Electro-Mechanical Winding  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  58720   National Certificate: Engineering Fabrication  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 
    Elective  64829   National Certificate: Lifting Machine Operations  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  TETA 
    Elective  23255   National Certificate: Mechanical Engineering: Fitting and Machining  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  91926   National Certificate: Mechanical Engineering: Machining and Tooling  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 
    Elective  67609   National Certificate: Mechatronics  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  79666   National Certificate: Metal and Engineering Manufacturing Processes  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  64190   National Certificate: Metals Production  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 
    Elective  49449   National Certificate: Plastics Manufacturing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  36155   National Certificate: Polymer Composite Fabrication  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  79407   National Certificate: Polymer Compound Manufacturing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  21012   National Certificate: Power and Telecommunication Cable Manufacturing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  24217   National Certificate: Thermoplastic Fabrication  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  48798   National Certificate: Tyre and Tyre Component Manufacturing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  48795   National Certificate: Tyre Assembly  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  57886   National Certificate: Welding Application and Practice  Level 3  NQF Level 03  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. AA Technical Services (PTY) LTD 
    2. Access Training Centre (Pty) Ltd 
    3. AETA Training Solutions 
    4. Africa Training Centre 
    5. ALLOYS HEAD OFFICE 
    6. Arcelor Mittal Steel Vanderbijlpark 
    7. Bev Short Training Consultants 
    8. Bonticom (Pty) Ltd 
    9. Breerivier Training Development CC Mossel Bay 
    10. Breerivier Training Development CC Worcester 
    11. Circleway College 
    12. Culmen Wes-Kaap CC 
    13. Dee's Training (PTY) LTD 
    14. Dee-Bravo Training Centre 
    15. Devolden Group 
    16. Diversity technology Training Institute 
    17. Dreyer & Dreyer Risk Solutions 
    18. Driven Machinery Training Services cc 
    19. Durban Driver Training Centre Pty Ltd 
    20. Dynalift cc 
    21. Econo Driver Training 
    22. Exclusive Training and Services 
    23. Exclusive Training Services 
    24. Fantique Trade 1092 
    25. Hazchemwize (PTY) Ltd 
    26. He and She Driver Training Centre 
    27. Human Resources Education Training & Development 
    28. Indaba Training 
    29. Insimbi Engineering & Training 
    30. Johnson Crane Hire (Pty) Ltd 
    31. Juan-Tech Rentals Pty Ltd 
    32. Juan-Tech Training Centre 
    33. Ksk Training Centre (Pty) Ltd 
    34. Kwazulu Natal Training & Development cc 
    35. LB Training Solutions 
    36. Learning Exchange Pty (Ltd) 
    37. Lessons Online (Pty) Ltd 
    38. Licence Wise 
    39. Lifting Operator Training Centre cc 
    40. Magas Training and Development (Pty) Ltd 
    41. Makwedeng Training 
    42. MAMMOET SOUTHERN AFRICA (PTY) LTD 
    43. Matovu Training Center 
    44. MCMEGZ Training 
    45. Merrod Trading 122 Pty Ltd 
    46. Miclos Trading (Pty) Ltd 
    47. MMTI Holdings 
    48. Mobile Training cc 
    49. Mpofu Engineering Projects 
    50. Nelko Training MP (Pty) Ltd 
    51. OHS Legislative Training CC 
    52. Orion Industrial Training Services (Pty) Ltd 
    53. OSR Trading 
    54. Precision skills development and training 
    55. Primeserv Corporate Solutions (Pty) Ltd 
    56. Sisabenza Operator Training (PTY) LTD 
    57. Starcrow 36 Bk 
    58. Striving Mind Academy and Consultancy Pty Ltd 
    59. SVA Training 
    60. The Skills Matrix 
    61. Thwala Training Services (Pty) Ltd 
    62. Training Consultant and SD College 
    63. Training Force 
    64. Transvaal Legislative Training 
    65. Transvaal Training 
    66. True-Blue Training (Pty) Ltd 
    67. Tshireletso Multi-skills and Training 
    68. Uthingo Training Centre 
    69. Wheelman S A 
    70. Wild Boar Fire cc 



    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.