Occupational Certificate: Fire Alarm Technician

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Fire Alarm Technician in a safe and knowledgeable manner.

A Fire Alarm Technician performs a variety of tasks associated with the installation, maintenance, commissioning and design of fire detection systems to protect life, environment and property. The learner will do this by utilising the knowledge they have gained during the training.

A qualified learner will be able to

• Install South African standards compliant fire detection systems in a safe and competent manner to reduce the loss of life and property.
• Design legally and compliant fire detection systems.
• Carry out preventative maintenance procedures as per the South African National Standards (SANS) requirements.
• Carry out legal commissioning, client education and hand-over of fire detection systems.

Rationale

The Special Class Electrician (Fire Alarm Technician) Occupation forms part of the 2018 list of Occupations in High Demand that have been identified by the Department of Higher Education and Training, has been listed as a trade occupation as per Government Gazette 35625, published on 31 August 2012, and identified as a trade occupation in terms of Section 26B of the Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998). It is for these policies that the QCTO prioritised the development of the Special Class Electrician.

The qualification is a specialisation to occupational qualification OFO code: 672107 Special Class Electrician. It has been developed in compliance with the Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHS Act) and relevant parts of the following South Africa National Standards (SANS) and other relevant regulations.

• SANS 10400 National building regulations.
• SANS 10139:2012 (Ed. 3.02) Fire detection and alarm systems for buildings - System design, installation and servicing.
• SANS 322:2005 (Ed. 1.00) Fire detection and alarm systems for hospitals.
• SANS 246 Fire protection for electronic equipment installations.
• SANS 306-4 Specification for CO2 systems.
• SANS 14520 Gaseous extinguishant systems.
• SANS 369 Operation of fire protection. Mechanical.
• SANS 7240 16 & 19 Sound systems for emergency purposes.
• SANS 50054-1:2009 (Ed. 2.00) Fire detection and fire alarm systems Part 1: Introduction.
• SANS 50054-10:2010 (Ed. 1.00) Fire detection and fire alarm systems Part 10: Flame detectors - Point detectors.
• SANS 50054-11:2001 (Ed. 1.00) Fire detection and fire alarm systems Part 11: Manual call points.
• SANS 50054-12:2010 (Ed. 1.00) Fire detection and fire alarm systems Part 12: Smoke detectors - Line detectors using an optical light beam.
• SANS 50054-2:1997 (Ed. 1.00) Fire detection and fire alarm systems Part 2: Control and indicating equipment.
• SANS 50054-20:2009 (Ed. 1.00) Fire detection and fire alarm systems Part 20: Aspirating smoke detectors.
• SANS 50054-3:2001 (Ed. 1.00) Fire detection and fire alarm systems Part 3: Fire alarm devices - Sounders.
• SANS 50054-4:1997 (Ed. 1.00) Fire detection and fire alarm systems Part 4: Power supply equipment.
• SANS 50054-5:2000 (Ed. 2.00) Fire detection and fire alarm systems Part 5: Heat detectors - Point detectors.
• SANS 50054-7:2000 (Ed. 2.00) Fire detection and fire alarm systems Part 7: Smoke detectors - Point detectors using scattered light, transmitted light or ionization.
• SANS 530-9:2010 (Ed. 1.00) Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings Part 9: Code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of emergency voice communication systems.
• SANS 7240-16:2008 (Ed. 1.00) Fire detection and alarm systems Part 16: Sound system control and indicating equipment.
• SANS 7240-19:2008 (Ed. 1.00) Fire detection and alarm systems Part 19: Design, installation, commissioning, and service of sound systems for emergency purposes.
• SANS 728-8:2009 (Ed. 1.00) Automatic fire detection and alarm systems Part 8: Multi-point aspirated smoke detectors > SANS246 Electronic Rooms.
• IEC 62599-2 Alarm systems - Part 2: Electromagnetic compatibility - Immunity requirements for components of fire and security alarm systems.
• ISO 7240-12:2006 Fire detection and alarm systems, Line type smoke detectors using a transmitted optical beam.
• ISO 7240-15:2004 Fire detection and alarm systems, Point-type fire detectors using scattered light, transmitted light or ionization sensors in combination with a heat sensor.
• ISO 7240-16:2007 Fire detection and alarm systems, Sound system control and indicating equipment.
• ISO 7240-17:2009 Fire detection and fire alarm systems, Short-circuit isolators.
• ISO 7240-2:2003 Fire detection and alarm systems, Control and indicating equipment.
• ISO 7240-20:2010 Fire detection and alarm systems, Aspirating smoke detectors.
• ISO 7240-21:2005 Fire detection and alarm systems, Routing equipment.
• ISO 7240-22:2007 Fire detection and alarm systems, Smoke-detection equipment for ducts.
• ISO 7240-27:2009 Fire detection and alarm systems, Point-type fire detectors using a scattered-light, transmitted-light or ionization smoke sensor, an electrochemical-cell carbon-monoxide sensor and a heat sensor.
• ISO 7240-4:2003 Fire detection and alarm systems, Power supply equipment.
• ISO 7240-6:2011 Fire detection and alarm systems, Carbon monoxide fire detectors using electro-chemical cells.
• ISO 7240-7:2011 Fire detection and alarm systems, Point-type smoke detectors using scattered light, transmitted light or ionization.
• ISO 7240-8:2007 Fire detection and alarm systems, Carbon monoxide fire detectors using an electro-chemical cell in combination with a heat sensor.

The qualification is a response to address a need to have qualified, competent, industry practitioners in South Africa that can design, install, maintain and commission fire detection and alarm systems as well as meeting the criteria required to register with the South African Industry Regulators.

The range of typical learners that will enter this qualification are people who wish to gain access to employment opportunities in the fire detection industry as well as those who are currently working in the industry without a qualification. It is aimed at learners from formal schooling who aspire to become fire alarm technicians and or employees who are currently employed in the fire alarm industry performing fire detection related activities. Learners who successfully complete this qualification will have a range of foundational competencies relating to fire detection systems, health and safety, electro technical knowledge, installation practices and further skills in workplace processes. Learners who do not want to become fire alarm technicians but require skills and competencies to perform other fire alarm system services have been catered for in the form of part-qualifications.

Previously, industry developed fire alarm training qualifications according to different standards and under different bodies, ranging from skills programs to Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) recognition of non-registered industry training. This qualification aims to establish common standards at entry level to access funding for people who previously did not have the means to achieve accreditation to allow for applications for employment opportunities.

Learners who complete this qualification or part-qualifications will be recognised as competent fire alarm practitioners employable within various public as well as in the private sectors and in becoming self-employed. Qualifying learners will enable progression in their careers by completing learning programmes that are aligned to NQF Level 5 qualifications in selected specialised routes or career pathways in the context of fire alarm services. These specialised qualifications will enable them to operate either as installers, maintainers, commissioners, designers or beyond.

The completion and attainment of this qualification or part-qualifications will benefit learners in terms of employability within various public as well as in the private sectors as they will be in possession of the required skills as legislated in the South African National Standard 10400 (consisting of various parts A to W) which is the application of the NBR (National Building Regulations) Act 103 of 1977. The successful learner will be classified as "competent" as defined in SANS 10400-A: 2016 to carry out this work. The employment of qualified competent learners by the industry will benefit both the communities and the South African economy at large.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL for Access to a qualification

Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification.

RPL for exemption of modules

Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part-qualification will be credited for modules through RPL.

RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment

Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result.

Entry Requirements

An NQF Level 4 qualification with Mathematics and Science.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules

Knowledge Modules

• 672107-001-00-KM-01, Health and Safety Related to the Fire Detection Industry, Level 4, 1 Credit.
• 672107-001-00-KM-02, Electro-technical related to the Fire Detection Industry, Level 4, 8 Credits.
• 672107-001-00-KM-03, Business Communication related to the Fire Detection Industry, Level 4, 1 Credit.
• 672107-001-00-KM-04, Installation related to the Fire Detection Industry, Level 5, 10 Credits.
• 672107-001-00KM-05, System Design related to the Fire Detection Industry, Level 5, 10 Credits.
• 672107-001-00KM-06, Maintenance related to the Fire Detection Industry, Level 5, 10 Credits.
• 672107-001-00KM-07, Commissioning related to the Fire Detection Industry, Level 5, 10 Credits.

Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 50

Practical Skill Modules

• 672107-001-00PM-01, Identify and Apply Safety Regulations and Practices to be used in the Fire Detection Industry, Level 4, 1 Credit.
• 672107-001-00PM-02, Identify and Apply Electro-Technical Methods in the Fire Detection Industry, Level 4, 8 Credits.
• 672107-001-00PM-03, Identify and Apply an Understanding of Business Communications and Practices, using and Describing Communication Etiquette and Documentation used in the Fire Detection Environment, Level 4, 1 Credit.
• 672107-001-00PM-04, Identify and Apply Regulations, Tools, Practices, Components to be used in Installation in the Fire Detection Industry, Level 5, 10 Credits.
• 672107-001-00PM-05, Identify and Apply System Design for Fire Detection Systems, Level 5, 10 Credits.
• 672107-001-00PM-06, Identify and Apply Maintenance Techniques in the Fire Detection Industry, Level 5, 10 Credits.
• 672107-001-00PM-07, Identify and Apply Compliant Commissioning Techniques in the Fire Detection Industry, Level 5, 10 Credits.

Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 50

Work Experience Modules

• 672107-001-00 WM-01, Practice Processes and Procedures for Health and Safety Requirements related to the Fire Detection Environment, Level 4, 1 Credit.
• 672107-001-00 WM-02, Processes and Procedures for Installing Fire Detection Systems and other Associated Equipment, Level 5, 13 Credits.
• 672107-001-00 WM-03, Processes and Procedures for Communication, Etiquette and Documentation in the Fire Detection Industry, Level 4, 1 Credit.
• 672107-001-00 WM-04, Processes and Procedures used for System Design Practices in the Fire Detection Industry, Level 5, 11 Credits.
• 672107-001-00 WM-05, Processes and Procedures for Maintaining Fire Detection Equipment, Level 5, 12 Credits.
• 672107-001-00 WM-06, Processes and Procedures for Commissioning Fire Detection System Installations, Level 5, 12 Credits.

Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 50

1. Conduct fire detection and alarm systems installations, with an informed understanding and fundamental knowledge of health & safety, electromechanical disciplines, business communications and installation techniques as they relate to fire detection and alarm systems.
2. Conduct preventative maintenance with an informed understanding as well as fault finding and repairs as they relate to fire detection and alarm systems in compliance with regulations, relevant standards and by-laws.
3. Conduct commissioning with an informed understanding as related to fire detection and alarm systems in compliance with regulations, relevant standards, and by-laws.
4. Perform with an informed understanding of system design as related to fire detection and alarm systems in compliance with regulations, relevant standards, by-laws and legalities.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

ELO 1: Conduct fire detection and alarm systems installations, with the informed understanding and fundamental knowledge of health & safety, electromechanical disciplines, business communications and installation techniques as they relate to fire detection and alarm systems.

• Conduct fire life safety surveys, submit reports to include working safely at heights and cover the correct usage of tools and equipment in topics.
• Explain and demonstrate inspection and use of safety equipment.
• Demonstrate and explain the principles and fundamentals of electro-technical theory.
• Describe principles of building construction and building legislation as they relate to fire detection and alarm system fire safety including working at heights.
• Explain and demonstrate safety precautionary measures to prevent injuries as relating to low voltage electrical and electronic installations.
• Explain, demonstrate and apply the use, care and inspection of installation equipment.
• Demonstrate the importance of correct record keeping.
• Demonstrate the methods used for the installation of fire cables.
• Demonstrate the various cable containment and support systems.
• Demonstrate terminations of cables.
• Explain and demonstrate the procedures for mounting of fire equipment.
• Explain principles of emergency illumination and the control of building utilities.
• Identify, describe and demonstrate types and operation of fire detectors, audible/visual alarms and control equipment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

ELO 2: Conduct preventative maintenance with an informed understanding as well as fault finding and repairs as they relate to fire detection and alarm systems in compliance with regulations, relevant standards and by-laws.

• Demonstrate and explain procedures for conducting preventative maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems.
• Demonstrate the use of device test equipment.
• Identify and rectify system and installation faults. Demonstrate the methods used.
• Demonstrate record keeping in the system logbook.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

ELO 3: Conduct commissioning with an informed understanding as related to fire detection and alarm systems in compliance with regulations, relevant standards and by-laws.

• Explain and demonstrate procedures regarding system documentation in compliance with regulations, relevant standards and by-laws and design-based criteria.
• Explain and demonstrate he role of the commissioner in the testing of the system and the production of the required documentation.
• Explain and demonstrate the role of the commissioners' procedures in the handing over of a fire detection and alarm system to the client.
• Explain insurance indemnity for protection of the commissioner, company and client.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

ELO 4: Perform with an informed understanding and demonstrate knowledge of system design related to fire detection and alarm systems in compliance with regulations, relevant standards, by-laws and legalities.

• Describe and demonstrate principles of fire detection and alarm systems in relation to regulations, relevant standards and by-laws.
• Describe the legal responsibilities of the fire system designer.
• Demonstrate and explain system categories, zoning, device placement, travel distance and sound levels.

Integrated Assessment

Formative Assessment

The skills development provider 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. The formative assessment together with work experience leads to entrance in the integrated external summative assessment.

Summative Assessment

An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality Partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the exit level outcomes and associated assessment criteria. Collectively, phase assessments in terms of knowledge and practical skills should be conducted within 10 working days.