National Occupational Certificate: Mine Sampler

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as Mine Sampler.

Mine Samplers oversee the collection of rock samples, process and capture sample analysis data for evaluating mineral resources; and complete administrative functions and duties; in accordance with organisational, statutory and regulatory requirements.

A qualified learner will be able to

• Oversee the collection of samples.
• Capture sample analysis data and related information onto evaluation systems.
• Take and record required measurements of geological features and workplace dimensions in a mine.
• Troubleshoot
• Communicate effectively.

The qualifying learner will be able to proficiently use sampling techniques to conduct sampling functions, including the collection, processing, and capturing of accurate sample data.

The qualification is aimed at providing learners with opporEtunities for professional development and career advancement within the broader constituencies of the mine sampling, occupational health, safety and environmental community.

Graduate attributes

• Honesty,
• Integrity,
• Punctuality,
• Time management,
• Self-motivated,
• Responsibility,
• Accountability,
• Interpersonal relations,
• Ethical behaviour,
• Well organised,
• Self-confidence and
• Confidentiality.

Rationale

In the mining industry, it is very important to obtain information on the ore that is mined. Samplers are responsible for taking samples for analysis on a regular basis.

This qualification replaces the Occupational Certificate Mining Technician (Mining Sampler Hardrock), which expired on 2023 -03-30.

The role of the Mine Sampler is to produce information on the ore that is mined. It is their responsibility to collect and examine samples of the ore regularly to determine its nature, quality, and quantity. The data from sampling is necessary to understand how mining activities and mine waste change the environment. Sampling is designed, carried out, and assembled into structured information by skilled professionals. Sampling results are interpreted into information that can be shared with all stakeholders at a mine site.

The complexity of the work is increasing with the development of new technologies along with the increasing statutory requirements for sampling work, which have highlighted the need to enhance the dwindling skills of mine samplers. This qualification aims to equip potential learners with the required knowledge and skills to adapt to the evolving technological, statutory, and mandatory requirements.

This qualification offers opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the broader domains of mine sampling, occupational health, safety, and environmental management.

There are currently no other similar qualifications registered under the OQSF.

The samples that the Mine sampler collets assist with decision making for further exploration, resource estimation, grade control or plant design. By obtaining the right samples and making sure they are properly prepared and accurately analysed are critical steps in determining whether an investment or project goes ahead.

This qualification will enhance the mining sector and benefit society by minimising uncertainty in the data by equipping learners with the skills and technical competencies needed to conduct appropriate sampling, preparation and handling protocols to elevate work standards, comply with occupational health, safety, and environmental regulations and work safely and efficiently. This proficiency will not only boost productivity but also contribute to the nation's economy. A strengthened economy attracts both local and international investors, thereby further stimulating economic growth and development.

Learners for this qualification will typically be Mine Sampling Observers. Mine Workers with appropriate experience seeking to advance their careers will also benefit from this qualification.

The typical learning pathway would be Mine Technical Services Support Assistant: Sampling Operations at NQF Level 2, Mine Sampling Observer at NQF Level 3, Mine Sampling Officer at NQF Level 4, then Mine Section Valuator at NQF Level 6.

This qualification will assist in the formalising of the requirements for this very important occupation. There will be opportunity for RPL for mine employees and this will allow new industry entrants to be fast tracked to a productive career.

Diagonal articulation could not be established as there were no qualifications to articulate with, across Sub-Frameworks, at the time of this review.

Occupation(s) and professions to related to this qualifications are

Stakeholders from various sectors including

• Workplace Practitioners
• Assessors and moderators
• Private Training Providers
• Teaching and learning specialist
• Curriculum Development Specialist
• Other (The Minerals Council of South Africa).

Typical occupation

Mine Sampler

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL for Access

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

Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills qualification. 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.

RPL for Exemption

For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification 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.

RPL for Awarding Credits

Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification 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.

RPL for access into the External Integrated Summative Assessment.

A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved.

Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO.

Entry Requirements

Any mining related qualification at NQF Level 3.

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

Knowledge Modules

• 311701-002-01-KM-01, Mine Sampling Practices, NQF Level 4, 28 Credits
• 311701-002-01-KM-02, Mining and Mineral Engineering Practice, NQF Level 4, 12 Credits

Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 40

Practical Skill Modules

• 311701-002-01-PM-01, Safely Access Workings to Execute Sampling Tasks, NQF Level 4, 6 Credits
• 311701-002-01-PM-02, Oversee the Taking of Samples, NQF Level 4, 16 Credits
• 311701-002-01-PM-03, Capture, Plot and Transfer Rock Sample Data and Measurements on Relevant Media and Compile Communication Reports, NQF Level 4, 16 Credits
• 311701-002-01-PM-04, Apply Statistics and Geostatistical Methods, NQF Level 4, 10 Credits

Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 48

Work Experience Modules

• 311701-002-01-WM-01, Exposure to the Sampling Processes, NQF Level 4, 50 Credits

Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 50

1. Apply procedure and processes to coordinate activities related to the collection of samples in a mine.
2. Apply knowledge and techniques to process and capture all collected sample data on the mine evaluation system.
3. Apply knowledge and skills to take and record required measurements of geological features and workplace dimensions in a mine.
4. Coordinate troubleshooting activities.
5. Facilitate communication process.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

ELO 1: Apply procedure and processes to coordinate activities related to the collection of samples in a mine.

• Apply fundamental knowledge and understanding of mine survey, sampling, mineral resource management, mining engineering, technical services practice, occupational health, safety, environmental, organisational, statutory, and regulatory requirements.
• Explain the various methods of taking samples for different commodities, giving all the steps that must be taken and placing the steps in the appropriate sequence and places where samples must be taken within different mining environments on given mining maps and identify for plans making use of the appropriate coordinates and coordinate systems.
• Identify the primary geological structures/features associated with hardrock mining from pictures, drawings and mine plans/maps.
• Describe the following terms: a. Faults (normal, reverse, thrust and lateral); b. Folds (synclines and anticlines) c. Dykes and sills; d. Potholes and sinkholes; e. Joints, fissures, fractures; f. Bedding planes; g. Ground water; h. Entrapped gasses and fluids.
• Capture raw data in the field books reflecting the pre- and post- sampling information relevant to the identified sampling points.
• Determine and follow the areas to be sampled and required procedures to correctly determine and mark the areas to be sampled.
• Follow the correct procedures to observe the sample chipping process and take corrective actions, when required.
• Bag, label and record samples in the sample data field book.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

ELO 2: Apply knowledge and techniques to process and capture all collected sample data on the mine evaluation system.

• Consolidate and collate data relevant for compiling a sample record sheet onto the evaluation system.
• Compile sample record sheet; calculate average values and widths.
• Plot results and transfer onto the relevant media.
• Compile a communication report.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

ELO 3: Apply knowledge and skills to take and record required measurements of geological features and workplace dimensions in a mine.

• Determine the location of the areas to be measured; collect information regarding the area to be measured; prepare information in the field book for the measuring exercise.
• Install strike and dip tapes, making use of at least two fixed survey points/stations.
• Create the shape (polygon) according to the field data.
• Determine the appropriate areas and calculate the actual volumes of rock in the areas.
• Plot tape measurements, offsets and features on the working plan/media.
• Determine the true heights of workings, at regular intervals.
• Read off and record right-angled ties (offsets) at regular intervals (operational standard), to capture the working face position and other relevant features in the working area. (The features will include the following: Face on reef, RIH/RIF, sweepings, support, ventilation, geological features and pillars).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

ELO 4: Coordinate troubleshooting activities.

• Identify problems and establish root causes.
• Determine the corrective and preventative actions.
• Implement corrective actions, in accordance with requirements, to solve identified problems.
• Recorded and report actions taken accordingly.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

ELO 5: Facilitate communication process

• Use oral and written communication channels to convey intended outcomes.
• Communicate fluently and understandably, in accordance with requirements.
• Communicate findings and outcomes effectively.

Integrated Assessment

Formative Assessments conducted internally

Formative assessments are conducted throughout the training of learners. A range of formal, non-formal, and informal ongoing assessment activities are used to focus on teaching and learning outcomes to improve learner attainment.

Formative assessments are conducted continuously by the facilitator to feed into further learning, to identify strengths and weakness, and to ensure the learner's ability to apply knowledge, skills and workplace experience gained.

Formative Assessments are conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider (SDP), and a variety of ongoing assessment methods may be used, for example, quizzes, assignments, tests, scenarios, role play, interviews. Continuous feedback must be provided.

Integrated Summative Assessments conducted Internally

Integrated Assessment involves all the different types of assessment tasks required for a particular qualification, part-qualification or occupational skills qualification, such as written assessment of theory and practical demonstration of competence. To achieve this, the Internal Assessment Criteria (IAC) for all modules as found in the QCTO curriculum document must be followed.

An accredited SDP should implement a well-designed, formal, relevant, final internal Summative Assessment strategy for all modules to prepare learners for the EISA. These assessments evaluate learning achievements relating to the achievement of each module of the relevant components of the qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification.

Internal Summative Assessments are developed, moderated and conducted by the SDP at the end of each module or after integration of relevant modules, e.g. applied knowledge tests, workplace tasks, practical demonstrations, simulated tasks/demonstrations, projects, case studies, etc.

The results of these final formal summative assessments must be recorded. These results, which include the Statement of Work Experience results, where applicable, contribute to the Statement of Results (SoR) that is a requirement for admission to the EISA. An SoR, using the template provided by the Quality Partner, is issued by the accredited SDP for qualifications and part-qualifications. The SDP must produce a valid Statement of Results for each learner, indicating the final result and the date on which the competence in each module, of each component, was achieved. Learners are required to produce this SoR, together with their ID document or alternative ID document, at the point of the EISA.

External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA)

The Quality Partner is responsible for the management, conduct and implementation of the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA), in accordance with QCTO set standards. Competence in the EISA is a requirement for certificating a learner.

For entrance into the EISA, the learner requires a valid Statement of Results issued by the accredited institution indicating: The attainment of all modules for the Knowledge, Practical and Work Experience modules OR The attainment of all modules for the Knowledge and Application Components.

The attainment of all modules for the Knowledge, Practical and Work Experience modules

OR

The attainment of all modules for the Knowledge and Application Components.