Construction Plant Operator

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Construction Plant Operator. A Construction Plant Operator operates surface construction plant and equipment in various construction sectors. A qualified learner will be able to: • Prepare equipment for operation. • Operate the equipment safely and efficiently according to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications. • Communicate and report operational performance.

This qualification is important to address the skills of the current and future employees serving the construction industry. The industry will draw the learners from the numbers of current unemployed youth and provide them with a standardised qualification that will assist them in securing employment. The construction industry requires the realignment of the previously registered qualification. The construction industry plays a significant part in the reduction of unemployment in the economy. However, for the construction industry to be effective, a skilled workforce is critical. This qualification and in particular the part-qualifications, will enhance employment opportunities and mobility for qualified employees and improve opportunities for self-employment. The construction industry will base the progression of employees on their certification after achieving the qualification. There are opportunities for qualifying learners to progress horizontally to Diesel Bowser Operator, Sideboom Operator or Water Cart Operator and vertically to Construction Plant Supervisor (NQF Level3), Earthwork and Layer Works Hand (NQF Level 3) and Road Drainage Hand (NQF Level 3). Different proficiencies were identified that are recognised by the construction industry that allow for employment opportunities. These proficiencies are captured in the following part-qualifications: • Occupational Certificate: Diesel Bowser Operator; • Occupational Certificate: Continuous Bucket Trencher Operator; • Occupational Certificate: Sideboom Operator; • Occupational Certificate: Water Cart Operator; • Occupational Certificate: Hot Mix Asphalt Paving Machine Operator; • Occupational Certificate: Face shovel Operator, Surface Grader Operator; • Occupational Certificate: Tractor Operator; • Occupational Certificate: Bitumen Spray Equipment Operator; • Occupational Certificate: Paving Screed Operator; • Occupational Certificate: Surface Roller Operator; • Occupational Certificate: Dozer Operator; Service Truck Operator; and • Occupational Certificate: Surface Tracked Dozer.

Entry Requirements: NQF Level 1 qualification with mathematics. Recognition of Prior Learning (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 results or by certifying a work experience record. RPL for Access to the Qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

• Prepare equipment for construction operations.
• Operate, monitor and report performance of different types of construction plant to execute different construction functions and operations safely and effectively.