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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Conduct noise measurements to validate a complaint 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
244615  Conduct noise measurements to validate a complaint 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Environmental Sc/Mgt & Waste Mgt 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences Environmental Sciences 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
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 
This unit standard will be useful for people working in local authorities as environmental health practitioners charged with noise control. It will assist them in the validation of noise infringements. They apply the by-laws, facilitate issues between complainants and offenders, and initiate further action where this becomes necessary, including notices and legal proceedings.

This unit standard will recognize the knowledge and essential skills required to measure the characteristics of a noise source using sophisticated noise level measurement equipment. It will enable them to set up and use equipment, take measurements and interpret results.

People credited with this unit standard are able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of sound level measurement equipment.
  • Prepare to conduct a noise measurement.
  • Conduct the noise measurement.
  • Analyse and interpret measurements.
  • Report measurement results. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners are already competent in terms of the following outcomes or areas of learning when starting to learn towards this unit standard:
  • Communication at NQF Level 4, or equivalent.
  • Maths Literacy at NQF Level 4, or equivalent. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    Specific range statements are provided in the body of the unit standard where they apply to particular specific outcomes or assessment criteria.

    The following scope and context applies to the whole unit standard:
  • Noise level measuring equipment includes: sound level meter (SLM), integrating sound level meter (ISLM), and the noise dosimeter. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of sound level measurement equipment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Different types of measuring equipment are identified and described with reference to their typical application, levels of accuracy, and suitability for legal cases. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Equipment includes:
  • Sound level meter (SLM) Type 1 and Type 2; integrating sound level meter (ISLM); noise dosimeter.

    Application includes:
  • Measurement of environmental and occupational noise; personal noise exposure; noise levels generated by a particular source; spectrum analysis; noise survey; impulse noise.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The equipment components are described and explained in terms of their function and purpose, in line with manufacturer specifications. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Components include:
  • Windshield, microphone, electronic circuits (octave band filter/A-weighting filter) and readout display, batteries, graphic level/tape recorders; tripods; software.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The use of weighting filters is explained with reference to their purpose and limitations in measuring sound potentially harmful to human hearing. Equipment settings are consistent with the purpose of the sound measurement exercise. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The importance of positioning the sound measuring equipment correctly is explained in line with the regulations governing its use. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Regulations include:
  • Height above the ground; distance from reflective surfaces; distance from noise source; positioning for indoor and outdoor measurements; use of the windshield; calibration of equipment.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The limitations of the sound measuring equipment are explained with reference to the sensitivity of the equipment and impact of that on the readings. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The effect of meteorological factors is described with reference to their impact on sound measuring equipment and readings, subsequent value of the data, and the degree of compensation required. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Factors include:
  • Wind speed; temperature; humidity; pressure.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Equipment for the measurement of meteorological factors is identified and its use explained in line with manufacturer's specifications. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Equipment includes:
  • Anemometer, thermometer, wind speed meter, GPS.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    The importance of proper maintenance and storage of the equipment is described and explained in accordance with manufacturer's specifications and the operator's manual. The explanation addresses factors affecting battery life and the sensitivity and accuracy of the equipment. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Factors include:
  • Shock, moisture, physical damage, excessive heat.
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Prepare to conduct a noise measurement. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Selection of equipment is appropriate to the purpose of the sound measurement, the temporal pattern of the noise, the location of exposed persons, and the type of information that is required. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Purpose includes:
  • Compliance with noise regulations, hearing loss prevention, noise control, community annoyance.

    Pattern includes:
  • Continuous, variable, intermittent, impulse.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Equipment is calibrated by an accredited authority at set intervals according to calibration standards specified by legislation and quality standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Field calibration is carried out using an approved acoustic calibrator to ensure that equipment is fit for purpose and ready to use. The importance of ensuring that the measuring equipment is within the prescribed range is explained with reference to the validity of the resulting data. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Equipment is inspected for physical damage, and faulty or damaged components replaced before the field visit. Batteries are ensured to be fully charged and ready for use. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Equipment is packed and stored in line with manufacturer's specifications to protect against damage. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Investigation of the measurement site establishes the degree of risk to personal safety in the taking of the sound measurement. Actions during preparation and set-up of equipment are designed to protect against any risk to personal safety. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Actions include:
  • Identifying hazards; determining consequences; estimating the risk; removing, reducing or controlling the risk; use of personal protective equipment.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Personal protective equipment selected is appropriate to the nature of the potential risk or hazard, and is used in accordance with its design and purpose. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Conditions are evaluated and selected so that measurement takes place under typical 'worst case' conditions, and as close as practicable to times when the greatest subjective intrusion is likely. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
    Permission to enter the working place, where necessary for occupational measurement, is obtained according to specified requirements. The consequences of entering a workplace without obtaining permission are explained in terms of health safety and productivity. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 10 
    Zone sound pressure levels are determined as a benchmark for gauging the possible noise infringement, as well as determining the basis for a reduction in noise emission levels. In event that zone sound levels cannot be determined, the appropriate SANS codes are used as the benchmark. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Conduct the noise measurement. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Meteorological conditions are checked and verified to be suitable for the measurement purposes. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The equipment is set up in accordance with the operator's manual and standard operating procedures for the particular sound measurement. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Equipment settings are adjusted to suit the meteorological conditions, the sound source, position of equipment and information required. Equipment is set to gather a representative sample of the noise problem. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Settings include:
  • Weighting (A, or other); measurement speed (fast, slow, impulse); time interval; decibel range; octave filter band.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Selection of measurement points provides for a representative sample of the noise problem. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The equipment is started, monitored and adjusted as required for the duration of the measurement cycle, in line with standard operating procedures. Factors which might affect the noise measurement are recorded for consideration during analysis. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Own position during measurement is consistent with procedures and does not interfere with the performance of the equipment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The particular settings and requirements for a spectrum analysis are described and explained with reference to the purpose of the analysis, and the use of the octave filter band in 'fingerprinting' low and high frequency noise sources. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Leq readings at the end of the time interval are correctly accessed and recorded for analysis purposes. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
    Equipment is calibrated at the end of the measurement session to ensure that it remains within the specified range. The consequences of equipment variance which exceeds the range is explained with reference to data validity and required corrective action. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 10 
    Equipment is properly cleaned and stored as per specified requirements. Defective instruments are dealt with according to specified requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Analyse and interpret measurements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Measurement results for pure tone noise are adjusted according to agreed scales, and for time of day. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Pure tone noise includes:
  • Drone, whistle, music, whining (as determined during the frequency analysis).
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Deviations from measurement specifications are noted together with reasons for the deviation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Surfaces in the locale which may affect the recording are noted together with the possible influence they may have. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Surface include:
  • Hard (reflective) and soft (absorbent) surfaces; barriers; shadow areas.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The qualitative assessment includes descriptions of the noise and what is actually perceived, as well as its sound qualities. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Interpretation of readings is consistent with SANS code criteria for qualitative and quantitative assessment results. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Criteria include:
  • Zone regulation and rating (day/night).
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Report measurement results. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Detail included in the report provides sufficient background and context to enable others to understand the nature of the complaint and to take informed action as required. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Details include:
  • Description of source/s and surroundings; all items of equipment used for the measurements, including calibration equipment; acoustic data; qualitative information and general observations.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The methodology used in the measurement is accurately described according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Details of the measurement points are described with reference to location and distance from the noise source. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Meteorological data is accurately recorded to confirm the validity of the measurement, and/or explain compensations or variances in data. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Meteorological data includes:
  • Temperature, humidity, wind speed.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    All readings and observations are accurately recorded in the required format, according to the standard operating procedure. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The report contains a clear statement of findings, including a conclusion on the validity of the complaint and the noise infringement. The conclusion is supported by available data. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The report provides a indication of the statistical probability of the group or community response to the noise infringement if it persists, in line with SANS codes. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Recommendations are consistent with the data, and in line with municipal regulations and standard operating procedures. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Recommendations include:
  • Final notice; reference to acoustic engineer; mitigation measures.
     
    		•


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Accreditation Options: Providers of learning towards this unit standard will need to meet the accreditation requirements of the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation Option: The moderation requirements of the relevant ETQA must be met in order to award credit to learners for this unit standard. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    The following essential embedded knowledge will be assessed through assessment of the specific outcomes in terms of the stipulated assessment criteria. Candidates are unlikely to achieve all the specific outcomes, to the standards described in the assessment criteria, without knowledge of the listed embedded knowledge. This means that for the most part, the possession or lack of the knowledge can be directly inferred from the quality of the candidate's performance. Where direct assessment of knowledge is required, assessment criteria have been included in the body of the unit standard.
  • Basic physical science (as it applies to sound).
  • Basic understanding of meteorological principles.
  • Basic occupational and safety principles. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems and make decisions using critical and creative thinking.

    Note: Important in defining, identifying and measuring noise infringements and their impact on others, and solving problems between complainants/offenders. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others as members of a team, group, organisation or community.

    Note: Whole role is played out in a community context; operates as a member of a team, and must resolve issues for the good of the community. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage themselves and their activities responsibly and effectively.

    Note: Must be meticulous in recording information and observations, and presenting reports. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.

    Note: Key task is to collect and organise information and present it; forms the basis of further proceedings. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively, using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentations.

    Note: Core skill - communicating and mediating between complainants and offenders; communicating findings in report form; acting as a witness. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.

    Note: Core to this standard is the use of technology in the measurement of sound and noise. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.

    Note: Core to role in noise management - understanding that the sounds people make affect those around them and may come to be viewed as unwanted sound, or noise. 

    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 
    Notes to Assessors:

    Assessors should keep the following general principles in mind when designing and conducting assessments against this unit standard:
  • Focus the assessment activities on gathering evidence in terms of the main outcome expressed in the title to ensure assessment is integrated rather than fragmented. Remember we want to declare the person competent in terms of the title. Where assessment at title level is unmanageable, then focus assessment around each specific outcome, or groups of specific outcomes.
  • Make sure that evidence is gathered across the entire range, wherever it applies. Assessment activities should be as close to the real performance as possible, and where simulations or role-plays are used, there should be supporting evidence to show the candidate is able to perform in the real situation.
  • Do not focus the assessment activities on each assessment criterion. Rather make sure the assessment activities focus on outcomes and are sufficient to enable evidence to be gathered around all the assessment criteria.
  • The assessment criteria provide the specifications against which assessment judgements should be made. In most cases, knowledge can be inferred from the quality of the performances, but in other cases, knowledge and understanding will have to be tested through questioning techniques. Where this is required, there will be assessment criteria to specify the standard required.
  • The task of the assessor is to gather sufficient evidence, of the prescribed type and quality, as specified in this unit standard, that the candidate can achieve the outcomes again and again and again. This means assessors will have to judge how many repeat performances are required before they believe the performance is reproducible.
  • All assessments should be conducted in line with the following well documented principles of assessment: appropriateness, fairness, manageability, integration into work or learning, validity, direct, authentic, sufficient, systematic, open and consistent.

    The following particular issues should be taken into consideration when assessing against this unit standard:
  • Must be assessed under typical test conditions.

    Definition of Terms:

    Terms have been clarified as far as possible through the use of range statements. Further clarification of terms is provided as follows:

    Legal requirements include:
  • OHS Act and Regulations 85/1993.
  • Mine Health and Safety Act and Regulations 29/1996.
  • Guideline for mandatory Codes of Practice.

    Site-specific requirements:
  • Managerial instructions.
  • Codes of Practice.
  • Company Standards.
  • Standard Task Procedures.
  • Health Management Program.
  • Risk Assessment Documentation.
  • Working Guides.
  • Manufacturers` specifications. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  58801   Further Education and Training Certificate: Environmental Noise Practice  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2015-06-30  LG SETA 


    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. Jobafrik Consulting 


    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.