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: 

Demonstrate an understanding of the operation, installation and data recording methods for rock engineering instrumentation 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
256873  Demonstrate an understanding of the operation, installation and data recording methods for rock engineering instrumentation 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Mining and Minerals 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Fabrication and Extraction 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
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 persons who are pursuing a career in Rock Engineering.

Learners credited with this unit standard are able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the application of typical instruments.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the operation of typical instruments.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the installation procedures for instruments used in rock engineering.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of data recording methods.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the consequences of incorrectly operating and retrieving data from instruments used in rock engineering. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners are already competent in:
  • Communication and Mathematical literacy at NQF Level 3. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    N/A 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the application of typical instruments used in rock engineering. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The physical parameters that can be directly measured by rock engineering instruments are described. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Description must include:
  • Movement across a discontinuity.
  • Slip.
  • Relative displacement.
  • Load on support.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    An explanation is provided of how parameters such as stress, velocity and acceleration are derived indirectly. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The broad categories of instruments are described in terms of simplicity, reliability and robustness. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Description must include:
  • Optical.
  • Mechanical.
  • Hydraulic and pneumatic.
  • Electrical.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The purposes of the typical types of instruments are provided. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Purposes must include:
  • Provision of field estimates of rock properties.
  • Provision of field estimates of support efficacy.
  • Provision of estimates of rock stress.
  • Provision of estimates of rock deformability.
  • Provision of laboratory estimates of rock properties.
  • Provision of laboratory estimates of support performance.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The reasons are provided for implementing a programme of instrumentation and monitoring. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Reasons must include:
  • Rock mass deformation.
  • Rock mass local and regional stress.
  • Support performance.
  • High risk areas.
  • Derivation of rock mass properties.
  • Design verification.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The consequences of not having adequate knowledge of the purpose of implementing an instrumentation programme on operation and recording of data from instruments are provided. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the operation of typical instruments used in rock engineering. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    A description is provided of the components and functions of the typical rock engineering instruments. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Description must include:
  • Closure/ride meters.
  • Wire and magnesonic extensometers.
  • Theodolites.
  • Tape.
  • Veniers.
  • Load cells.
  • Borehole cameras.
  • Levelling devices.
  • Tilt meters.
  • Petroscopes.
  • Step meters.
  • Ground motion sensors.
  • Geophones.
  • Accelerometers.
  • Strain gauges.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The methods and procedures used to operate, calibrate and maintain optimum functioning of instruments is described in accordance with supplied specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The need for coordinating site preparation, instrument installation and operation, as well as structured data recording is explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The frequency of routine maintenance of instruments is provided in accordance with manufacturer specifications. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Explanation must include:
  • On receipt of delivery.
  • Prior to installation.
  • During operation.
  • After operation.
  • During storage.
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the installation procedures for instruments used in rock engineering. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Factors to be considered when locating an instrumentation site are described. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Description must include:
  • Accessibility.
  • Effect on mining operations.
  • Representivity of the site.
  • Safety.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The influence of site preparation on the desired functioning of instruments is described in accordance with industry guidelines. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Calibration methods are described in accordance with supplied specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The effect of incorrect installation on the optimal operation of the instruments is explained. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Demonstrate an understanding of data recording methods used in rock engineering instrumentation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Descriptions for various read-out or recording units are provided. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Description must include:
  • Dial gauge.
  • Pressure gauge.
  • Digital display.
  • Magnetic tape recording.
  • Digital data logger.
  • Video recordings.
  • Photography.
  • Data recording sheets.
  • Vernier scale.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Explanations of factors that contribute to substandard quality of data retrieved from instruments are provided. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Explanations must include:
  • Accuracy.
  • Error.
  • Precision.
  • Sensitivity.
  • User competence.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The relationship between the frequency of readings and the requirements from the recorded data is explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The methods of capturing and presenting the data are described. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Methods must include:
  • Graphs.
  • Rose diagrams.
  • Stereonet projections.
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the consequences of incorrectly operating and retrieving data from instruments used in rock engineering. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The factors that contribute to incorrect operation of instruments are provided. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Factors must include:
  • Inadequate knowledge of the operation of the instrument.
  • Operating the instrument outside its designed purpose.
  • Inadequate site preparation.
  • Inadequate scheduled maintenance.
  • Inadequate calibration of the instrumentation.
  • Inappropriate handling of the instrument.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The factors that contribute to substandard quality data retrieved from instruments are provided. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Factors must include:
  • Inadequately designed recording sheets.
  • Inadequate understanding of required recording principles.
  • Recording not abiding to scheduled recording frequency.
  • Recording process not abiding to required principles.
  • Incorrect processing and transfer of recorded data.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The influence that incorrect operation and data recording principles has on mine design are provided. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Must include:
  • Incorrect input parameters for mine design.
  • Incorrect base assumptions.
  • Over or under design.
  • Inadequate quality control or assurance.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The consequences of inadequate communication of operational and data recording defects are described. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this unit standard must be accredited as a provider with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA, according to the ETQA's policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this unit standard may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    The following embedded knowledge is assessed in an integrated way in the context of the unit standard:

    Application of typical instruments used in rock engineering:
  • Categories of instruments.
  • Purpose and function of instruments.
  • Consequences of lack of knowledge.

    Operation of typical instruments used in rock engineering:
  • Components and funcitons.
  • Methods and procedures.
  • Maintenance requirements.

    Installation procedures for instruments used in rock engineering:
  • Factors considered.
  • Calibration requirements.
  • Consequences of incorrect installation.

    Data recording methods used in rock engineering instrumentation:
  • Units recorded.
  • Quality of data.
  • Frequency of reading.
  • Methods for capturing and presenting data.

    Consequences of incorrectly operating and retrieving data from instruments used in rock engineering.specific requirements:
  • Factors contributing to incorrect operation.
  • Factors contributing to sub standard data.
  • Consequences of incorrect communication of data.
  • Influence on mine design. 
    		•

    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: The knowledge and understanding of the means and methods used to select, install and operate the correct instruments to address different problems. 

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

    Note: The ability to communicate the knowledge that operation, installation and recording data from instruments is an essential part of promoting a safe mining environment. 

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

    Note: The understanding that the correct installation and operation of instruments, and timely collection of data results in appropriate solutions. 

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

    Note: The ability of the candidate to select appropriate instruments for a defined objective and to obtain data that is relevant and meaningful. 

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

    Note: The appropriate uses of data capture techniques and presentation of the results in an acceptable format. 

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

    Note: The use of state-of-the-art electronic and mechanical instrumentation, monitoring, planning and databases, indicates effective application of science and technology. 

    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: The knowledge of the purpose of operating instruments and data recording within the instrumentation programme and the positive effect the programme will have on safety. 

    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 
    Terminology:

    Specified Requirements:

    Specified requirements include legal and site-specific requirements and are contained in one or more of the following documents:

    Legal:
  • Relevant Acts: e.g. Mine Health & Safety Act and Regulations, 1996 (Act 29/1996), and Minerals Act and Regulations, 1991 (Act 50/1991).
  • Mandatory Codes of Practice.
  • SANS and other relevant Standards.
  • Chief Inspector of Mines' Directives/Instructions.
  • Guidelines issued by the Chief Inspector of Mines.

    Site-specific:
  • 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. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  62796   Further Education and Training Certificate: Strata Control Operations  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  MQA 


    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.