Elementary Occupational Certificate: Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection

Purpose

The tangible benefits of completing the Elementary Occupational Certificate: Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection are potentially numerous for the learners.

Firstly, it provides learners with industry-recognised qualification, which serves as a valuable credential in the job market. This qualification enhances their employability and increases their chances of securing entry-level positions or advancing in their current roles within the steel construction industry.

Secondly, the qualification will equip learners with the necessary foundational skills and knowledge to perform their job responsibilities effectively and efficiently. They will comprehensively understand steel component manufacturing processes, steel erection techniques, safety protocols, and quality control measures. This knowledge enables them to contribute immediately to their respective roles, enhancing their productivity and job performance.

Furthermore, this qualification will open opportunities for career advancement. Learners who completed this qualification can demonstrate their commitment to professional development and industry standards, making them eligible for promotion or higher-level positions within the steel construction industry. This will lead to increased job satisfaction and provide potential salary advancements and, more excellent job stability.

Moreover, completing the qualification fosters self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment among learners. They will gain a tangible measure of their skills and abilities, which will boost their confidence in pursuing further training and development opportunities in the field. This sense of accomplishment can positively impact their overall personal and professional growth.

The purpose of this qualification is to

prepare a learner to operate as a Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection. A Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection execute specific support duties assisting the manufacturing and erection teams to execute their duties, safely and efficiently during the manufacturing and erection processes and therefore contribute to the successful execution of steel construction projects. The worker assists in the fabrication, assembly, and erection of steel components in accordance with project specifications and industry standards.

A qualified learner will be able to

• Execute elementary support tasks within a steel component manufacturing facility.
• Execute elementary support tasks on a steel erection site.
• Operate basic equipment to assist in the manufacturing of specific steel components for use in the erection of steel structures.
• Execute specific semi-skilled tasks during the erection of steel structures.
• Lead small teams of semi-skilled workers within the manufacturing and erection processes.

A competent elementary support worker in manufacturing and steel construction will typically possess the following key attributes:

• Technical orientation.
• Good hand/eye coordination.
• Attention to detail.
• Strong compliance orientation.
• Natural hazard perception.

Rationale

The need for an Elementary Occupational Certificate: Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection arises from the growing demand for skilled and qualified individuals to support the complex operations of steel construction projects. Steel construction is a specialized field requiring workers to understand safety protocols, construction techniques, material handling, and equipment operation. With this qualification, these support workers can demonstrate their competence, knowledge, and commitment to upholding industry standards and best practices. Moreover, this qualification will provide employers with the assurance that the workers possess the necessary skills to contribute effectively to the success of steel construction projects, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and adherence to safety regulations.

The current legacy qualification: SAQA ID 65709: National Certificate: Construction Steelwork: NQF Level 3 have reached the end of its registration date and industry stakeholder have requested the realignment of this qualification.

This qualification for elementary workers in steel component manufacturing and steel erection will bring several benefits to the construction sector, the community, and the South African economy. Firstly, this qualification will enhance the overall quality and safety standards within the construction sector. Workers with certified skills and knowledge will ensure that steel components are manufactured and erected following industry regulations and best practices, leading to improved structural integrity and reduced safety risks. This, in turn, instils confidence in clients and stakeholders, boosting the reputation and competitiveness of the construction sector.

Secondly, the community will benefit from this qualification through increased job opportunities and improved workforce competence. With qualified elementary workers, the community will have a skilled labour force capable of delivering high-quality steel construction projects. This leads to the creation of employment opportunities and economic growth within the local communities. The skills included in this qualification will also assist community members in building new housing units or improving existing housing, this could serve as a social benefit to all communities.

Lastly, the South African economy will experience positive impacts from this qualification. With a well-trained and certified workforce, the efficiency and productivity of steel component manufacturing and steel erection processes will increase. This translates into cost savings, reduced project timelines, and enhanced overall project delivery. These factors contribute to a more robust construction industry, attracting local and international investments and driving economic growth on a national scale.

The typical learners who will take up the Elementary Occupational Certificate for Steel component Manufacturing and steel erection are individuals seeking entry-level positions or career advancement opportunities in the steel construction industry. These learners may include high school graduates, trade school graduates, or individuals transitioning from other industries. Those who have a keen interest in steel component manufacturing and steel erection and are also motivated to acquire the necessary foundational skills and knowledge to excel in these roles. They may have some prior experience or exposure to the construction industry but require additional training and certification to enhance their employability and advance their careers, specifically in the field of steel construction.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme.

Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated, and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors.

For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded.

Entry Requirements

• Open access.

This qualification is made up of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules

Knowledge Modules

• 831301-000-00-KM-01, Fundamentals of Steel Component Manufacturing and Assembly, NQF Level 1, 8 Credits.
• 831301-000-00-KM-02, Fundamentals of Steel erection on Construction Sites, NQF Level 1, 8 Credits.
• 831301-000-00-KM-03, Principles of operating in a Steel Component Manufacturing Facility, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.
• 831301-000-00-KM-04, Principles of Assembling and Erecting Steel Structures on a Construction Site, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.
• 831301-000-00-KM-05, Concepts and Principles of Team Leadership, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.

Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 40

Practical Skill Modules

• 831301-000-00-PM-01: Execute Basic Team Leader Tasks, NQF Level 2, 20 Credits.

Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 20

Work Experience Modules

• 831301-000-00-WM-01, Organisational processes for providing Elementary Support to the Workers in a Steel Component Manufacturing Facility, NQF Level 1, 15 Credits.
• 831301-000-00-WM-02, Organisational processes for providing Elementary Support to the Workers on a Steel Erection Site, NQF Level 2, 15 Credits.
• 831301-000-00-WM-03, Organisational processes for Manufacturing and Assembling Steel Construction Components, NQF Level 2, 15 Credits.
• 831301-000-00-WM-04, Organisational Processes for Assembling and Erecting Steel Structures, NQF Level 2, 15 Credits.

Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 60

1. Follow standard operating procedures to execute elementary tasks in a steel component manufacturing facility.
2. Follow standard operating procedures to execute elementary tasks on a steel construction site.
3. Operate basic equipment to support the manufacturing of steel construction components.
4. Work under close supervision to follow standard operating procedures and support the work of skilled staff on a steel construction site.
5. Apply first line supervision and leadership skills to lead small teams of elementary workers in steel component manufacturing facilities and on steel construction sites.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

ELO 1: Follow standard operating procedures to execute elementary tasks in a steel component manufacturing facility.

• Safely and efficiently or handle raw materials, components, and finished products within the manufacturing facility. (Range: This includes loading and unloading materials, moving them between workstations, and organising them for storage or transportation.)
• Monitor automated Material Handling Systems, and compile with all procedures and rules . (Range: These systems include conveyors, lifts, and transfer systems that automatically transport materials or components between different workstations, storage areas, or machines).
• Aid skilled workers in the assembly and sub-assembly of components through the performance of elementary assembly tasks. (Range: Including fitting, fastening, or joining steel components together according to specifications and instructions).
• Visually inspect finished components or sub-assemblies to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications. (Range: Identify and report defects or non-conformities).
• Aid with maintaining accurate inventory records through the tracking of materials used, reporting shortages, and restocking supplies as needed. (Range: This may involve counting, labelling, and organising materials or components).
• Adhere to workplace safety protocols (Including Housekeeping) and guidelines during the execution of all tasks. (Range: This includes following proper lifting techniques, using personal protective equipment (PPE) as required, and reporting any safety hazards or incidents to supervisors).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

ELO 2: Follow standard operating procedures to execute elementary tasks on a steel construction site.

• Provide assistance in the movement, positioning, and transportation of steel components and construction materials on the erection site. (Range: This may involve loading and unloading materials, manual movement of materials and equipment, and ensuring materials are delivered to the appropriate locations using hand operated transportation devices).
• Provide assistance in setting up, organising, and maintaining tools and equipment used by skilled workers. (Range: This includes ensuring tools are readily available, replacing worn-out or damaged tools, and keeping the work area clean and organised).
• Assist with Worksite Preparation. (Range: This may involve tasks such as clearing debris, preparing foundations or footings, and ensuring a safe and accessible work area for skilled workers to perform their tasks).
• Aid skilled workers in the assembly and installation of steel components on a construction site. (Range: This may involve tasks such as handing tools or materials to the skilled workers, holding components in place during installation, or providing assistance in aligning and fastening connections between steel components).
• Provide safety support during the execution al steel construction tasks. (Range: This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and observing compliance with safe work practices).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

ELO 3: Operate basic equipment to support the manufacturing of steel construction components.

• Safely operate automatic and semi-automatic equipment used in the manufacturing process . (Range: This includes understanding and following operating procedures, starting up and shutting down equipment, monitoring machine performance, and making necessary adjustments for optimal operation).
• Closely monitor the production of high-quality steel components during the manufacturing process. (Range: This includes the inspecting of materials, dimensions, and surface finishes of the components to meet the specified standards and tolerances. Report all quality issues or deviations to supervisors or quality control personnel).
• Provide routine frontline maintenance of equipment. (Range: This includes tasks on the equipment, such as cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting parts for wear and tear. Report any malfunctions or abnormalities to maintenance personnel for prompt repairs).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

ELO 4: Work under close supervision to follow standard operating procedures and support the work of skilled staff on a steel construction site.

• Read and interpret basic site and construction plans. (Range: This includes interpreting basic dimensions, symbols, and specifications and the positioning of utilities and facilities on the construction site).
• Aid in the handling, lifting, and positioning of steel components during the erection process. (Range: This includes using appropriate tools, equipment, and techniques to safely transport and manoeuvre heavy steel beams, columns, or other structural elements on a construction site).
• Fix steel components together using bolts, nuts, rivets, or other basic connectors. (Range: This includes ensuring proper alignment and tightness of connections, following established procedures and torque specifications to maintain structural integrity).
• Aid welders during the welding process. (Range: This includes preparing materials, cleaning surfaces, and positioning components for welding operations. They may also assist in the setup and maintenance of welding equipment, as well as the handling of welding consumables).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

ELO 5: Apply first line supervision and leadership skills to lead small teams of elementary workers in steel component manufacturing facilities and on steel construction sites.

• Provide effective first line team leadership and supervision within a small team of workers. (Range: This may include assigning tasks, providing clear instructions, and overseeing work).
• Delegate tasks to team members. (Range: This includes confirming the capability of team members and ensuring that responsibilities are distributed appropriately within legal parameter).
• Provide on job training and coaching to new team members.
• Provide oversite on the quality of task execution.
• Provide on job training and motivation relating to risk mitigation and safety compliance. (Range: This includes ensure that team members are properly trained on safety measures, use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and actively participate in hazard identification and risk mitigation).

Integrated Assessment

Integrated Formative Assessment

The Skills Development Providers will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated External Summative Assessment.

Integrated Summative Assessment

An External Integrated Summative Assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality Partner is required to issue this qualification. The External Integrated Summative Assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. Additional to the written assessment the learner must also submit a portfolio of evidence compiled of outcomes achieved in the workplace.