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: 

Direct the operation of an overhead crane 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
253595  Direct the operation of an overhead crane 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Generic Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Engineering and Related Design 
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
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 replaces: 
US ID Unit Standard Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Credits Replacement Status
10541  Direct the operation of an overhead crane  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3   

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
This unit standard is for persons responsible for directing overhead crane operations. A person credited with this unit standard can:
  • Demonstrate knowledge relating to crane directing operations.
  • Prepare to direct crane operations.
  • Direct crane operations. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    This unit standard has been designed as part of a progression. It is one of a series of unit standards for learners in the mechanical handling or related engineering environment.

    The credits allocated to this unit standard assume that a learner has already learned to use hand tools, is able to inspect and use manual lifting equipment and tackle and is able to work safely. 

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    General guide for scope, context and level.

    For the purpose of learning and assessment, overhead cranes include, but are not limited to:
  • Cab-controlled overhead cranes.
  • Pendant-controlled overhead cranes.
  • Gantry cranes.

    Lifting equipment includes chain blocks; lever hoists; air hoists; winches; derricks, slings, rope, shackles, eye bolts, spreader and equalising beams, clamps, pulley systems, pull lifts, jacks, sliding shoes, rollers, tirfors.

    Safe procedures, control and storage, include:
  • OHS Act and local authority requirements.
  • Maintaining a record of usage.
  • Care and general storage methods.

    Context:
  • Formal, informal learning and RPL can obtain this unit standard.
  • This unit standard can be obtained through RPL. The learner should be under supervision.
  • (see qualification RPL).

    Level:

    Level (for Level 2).

    A learning programme leading to the award of this unit standard should develop learners who demonstrate:
  • Ability to carry out moderate tasks that are familiar.
  • Ability to offer a clear choice of routine responses.
  • Basic operational knowledge base as indicated in the embedded knowledge component and that are readily available.
  • An understanding of known solutions to familiar problems with little generation of new ideas.
  • Ability to work under direct supervision with some responsibility. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Demonstrate knowledge relating to crane directing operations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The types of overhead cranes and their application are identified and explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Procedures for using overhead cranes are explained, and their purpose is discussed in terms of safety legislation and work-site practice. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The legal and specified requirements pertaining to a safe, healthy work environment in the crane directing process are explained. The consequences of not adhering to the above are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The consequences of the unsafe use of overhead cranes, is explained in terms of load specifications, nature of the load and available accident statistics. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Hazards and associated risks, pertaining to the crane directing process, identified through specified risk assessment procedures, and the actions to be taken, should they be encountered are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The specified colour coding and symbolic signs pertaining to the crane operating area are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Terms and definitions used are consistent with generally accepted mechanical handling terminology. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Communication methods are explained in terms of generally accepted industry practice. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Prepare to direct crane operations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Personal protective and safety equipment is verified, examined and used in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Tools and equipment required are verified and examined in accordance with specified requirements. The consequences of non-compliance are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Workplace hazards and associated risks are dealt with in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The lifting attachments are examined and substandard conditions are dealt with in accordance with specified requirements. The consequences of non-compliance are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Safety precautions towards self and others are maintained in accordance with specified requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Direct crane operations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Personal protective and safety equipment is used in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Safe and optimum production is ensured through effective communication. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The crane activities are monitored and controlled in accordance with specified requirements. The consequences of non-compliance are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Tools, equipment and lifting attachments required are used in accordance with specified requirements. The consequences of non-compliance are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Work-related hazards and associated risks are dealt with in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Problems encountered are dealt with in accordance with specified requirements. In the absence of problems the action to be taken should they be encountered are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Safety precautions towards self and others are maintained in accordance with specified requirements. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • 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 must be accredited in terms of the criteria laid down by the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines in the relevant qualification and the agreed ETQA procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    Names & functions of:
  • Types of overhead cranes.
  • Communication techniques.

    Attributes, descriptions, characteristics & properties:
  • Different applications of overhead cranes.
  • Characteristics of different types of overhead cranes.
  • Common defects.
  • Hazards.

    Sensory cues:
  • Visual observance and vigilance.

    Purpose of:
  • Communication during the lifting task.
  • Safety checks.
  • Quality checks.

    Processes, events, causes and effects, implications:
  • Incorrect communication.
  • Of not following safety procedures.
  • Of not preparing adequately.

    Procedures and techniques:
  • Preparation procedures for using overhead cranes in assisting to lift and move a load.
  • Techniques related to the safe use of overhead cranes.
  • Preparation of the load.
  • Safety procedures.
  • Procedures for maintaining overhead cranes and accessories.
  • Quality procedures.
  • Recording and reporting procedures.
  • Methods and measures for the safe control of loads during lifting procedure.
  • Materials and methods used for fixing, anchoring, bracing, supporting and securing loads.

    Regulations, legislation, agreements, policies, standards:
  • Applicable safety, health and environmental protection legislation and standards.
  • Driven Machinery Regulations.
  • Occupational Health and Safety Act.
  • Mine Health and Safety Act.
  • Code of Safe Working Practice (Marine).
  • Relevant Acts: e.g. Mine Health & Safety Act, 1996 (Act no 29/1996), and Minerals Act.
  • Mining Regulations, 1991 (Act no 50/1991).
  • Mandatory Codes of Practice; SABS and other relevant Standards.
  • Chief Inspector of Mines` Directives.

    Site specific policies and procedures (Mines):
  • Hazard Identification and Risk Assessments (HIRA).
  • Occupational Health and Safety Risk Management Programme.
  • Managerial Instructions.
  • Mine Standard Procedures.
  • List of Recorded OH&S Risks.
  • Working Guides.
  • Equipment and Materials Specifications.

    Theory: rules, principles, laws:
  • Applicable basic lifting theory related to the safe use of overhead cranes.
  • Calculations related to safe working load (SWL) and working load limit (WLL).
  • Standard formulas for calculation of mass of final loads on the hook.
  • Safety principles governing the use of overhead cranes.

    Relationships, systems:
  • Relationship of the load to the use of appropriate overhead cranes.
  • Relationship of power to weight as a ratio.
  • Relationship between safety, lifting or moving a load efficiently and productivity.
  • Quality of workmanship. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems:
  • Recognise problems while lifting or moving a load and communicating appropriately. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work together with others:
  • Participate in efforts of workgroup. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage myself and my activities:
  • Plan the sequence of operations based on job instructions and set up the lifting task appropriately. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information:
  • Interpret information from job instructions and make decisions based on that information.
  • Organising personnel and the environment. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively:
  • Provide feedback on outcome of work to appropriate personnel. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems:
  • Relationship between mechanical handling and the broader engineering environment. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    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 assessments at title level are unmanageable, then focus assessment around each specific outcome, or groups of specific outcomes.
  • Make sure 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, directness, authenticity, sufficiency, openness and consistency. 
    		•

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

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    This standard replaces unit standard 10541, "Direct the operation of an overhead crane", Level 2, 3 credits.

    This unit standard (SAQA ID: 10541), was previously registered as "Direct the operation of an overhead crane" by the Mining and Minerals Industry (MMI) SGB. It was found to have a narrow legislative context, with reference to the mining industry, thus excluding learners from other industry sectors.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    Credits may be obtained by applying to an accredited/approved training provider/institution in order to have prior learning recognised in lieu of past work experience. Past experience must relate to the specific outcomes contained within this unit standard. The ensuing assessment of candidates seeking recognition of prior learning should not be so onerous as to deter them from doing so. 

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  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 
    Elective  59305   National Certificate: Mineral Processing  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  MQA 
    Elective  64829   National Certificate: Lifting Machine Operations  Level 3  NQF Level 03  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.
     
    1. AAH Skills and Development 


    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.