Deck Hand (Able Seaman)

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Deck Hand (Able Seaman). The Deck Hand (Able Seaman) performs navigational, operational support and maintenance tasks on board a vessel. A qualified learner will be able to: • Assist with navigation at support level. • Handle cargo handling and cargo stowage at the support level. • Assist with shipboard operations and care for persons on board at support level. • Maintain and repair at the support level. • Assist with mooring, towing, berthing and anchoring. • Carry out designated security duties.

The maritime transport industry, and shipping in particular, is subject to international political, economic and social pressures, typically conventions and protocols emerging from organisations like the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP). This characteristic requires the governance of the industry to be as sensitive to international considerations as it is to domestic considerations. South Africa's geographic location relative to its main trading partners makes it imperative that maritime transport is efficient, innovative and reliable. Transportation makes up a significant element in the pricing of South African traded goods. Efficient transport services, ensuring the safe and timely arrival of freight, are a prerequisite to competitive and successful trading. Trade is the economic life-blood of nations, with maritime transport carrying over 90% of all international trade. The successful implementation of this qualification will support the abovementioned strategies objectives. South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) is a body which is accountable to the Minister of Transport. SAMSA was established on 1 April 1998 in terms of the South African Maritime Safety Authority Act 5 of 1998 and their objective is to lead and champion South Africa's maritime interests as custodians and stewards of maritime policy, SAMSA must ensure that it develops and implements legislation and regulations that ensures that it meets its domestic and international obligations. Currently SAMSA is the only accreditation body for all domestic and international qualifications in the maritime sector, which is not recognised in the South African education and training arena. This by implication affects a large compliment within the South African maritime sector. This has a ripple effect on the SA economy when these individuals are no longer eligible to work in this industry and are forced to join the unemployed ranks as they are unable to find alternative employment. SAMSA's responsibility regarding the qualification of seafarers (as the authority that certificates South African seafarers and accredits training institutions) requires it to retain the IMO accreditation (South African seafarers'; employment opportunities are dependent on recognition of South African certificates of competence). SAMSA must also ensure the availability and advancement of South Africa's various maritime skills. This qualification will address the need for education and training of Able Sea Farers in South Africa as there is no recognised National qualification currently which satisfies the SAMSA requirements and therefore the international requirements. It will ensure compliance with international standard practice and Harbour regulations. In the past, the nature of the profession did not allow, nor promote, access to this area of economic activity. This qualification will entrench open-access to a career as a Second Mate. South African training institutions are accredited by SAMSA, which is in turn accredited by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). The continued accreditation of SAMSA is vital. The standards set by the SAQA system are aligned with STCW95 and thus ensure that South Africa's education, training and eventual certification standards continue to be internationally recognised. It is to this end that SAMSA has embarked on an application to be recognised by SAQA/QCTO as a Professional Body and proposed that the 8 Designations identified in the application, be left as such. The Designations are Master, Chief Mate, Deck Officer and Master Special Grade, Chief Engineer, Second Engineer, Engineer Officer of the Watch and Chief Engineer Special Grade. The Able Seafarer: Deck is the entry level qualification to these qualifications. Further specialisations need to be developed for Fisheries, Port Operations and Maritime Operations.

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 result or 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.

• The ability to assist with navigation at support level.
• The ability to handle and stow cargo at the support level.
• The ability assists with shipboard operations and care for persons on board at support level.
• The ability to maintain and repair at the support level.
• The ability to assist with mooring, towing, berthing and anchoring.
• The ability to carry out designated security duties.