Dock Master

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Dock Master. A Dock Master plans, coordinates, and controls the safe and efficient docking and undocking of all vessels and or structures for the purposes of surveys, planned maintenance, unplanned repairs, alterations and refits. A qualified learner will be able to: • Dock and undock vessels. • Plan and coordinate docking and undocking of vessels. • Achieve optimisation of docking and undocking bookings. • Warp vessel. • Transfer vessel on land. • Manage environmental protection. • Maintain and repair vessel.

This qualification resulted from an identified industry and employer need and represents a step in the established sub-field learning pathway. It will contribute to sustainable management of ports, terminals, and the ship repair industry to ensure South Africa's economic growth through providing additional ports and docking facilities to accommodate any of size of vessels. With this qualification, the learner will undergo structured learning which will build on their skills and competencies thereby reducing incidents and potential hazards within the industry. Currently coaching and mentoring initiatives are common practice with structured on the job training within these agreements. While these initiatives exist, they vary in application from business to business, which will be aligned through the implementation of the Dock Master qualification. Learners may range from unskilled progressing to becoming skilled workers. Learners achieving this qualification may progress from smaller facilities to the management of larger facilities. Career opportunities may extend to management positions within Operations. This qualification provides for implementation of qualifications in South Africa which complies with international competitive trends in the ports and harbours industry. The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) held in Porto during 2002 agreed on a strategy for training of Dock Master. It was further agreed that the qualification will encompass diverse linguistic groups. Training of South African ports managers was outsourced to relevant countries which support the best international practice.

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. Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: • NQF Level 3 qualification with Mathematics and Communication.

• Optimise the docking and undocking booking schedule in line with established safety requirements and regulations.
• Plan and coordinate the docking and undocking of vessels.
• Manage the docking and undocking of vessels.
• Manage the warping of the vessel.
• Manage the transfer of the vessel on land.
• Manage environmental protection during docking and undocking of vessels.
• Manage the maintenance and repair of the dock.
• Manage security duties around the docks and vessels.