Driller

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Driller. A Driller operates a drilling machine to drill holes for mining or construction operations. The drilling machine types may: be rotary, percussion or rotary/percussion (drifter); be pneumatically or hydraulically driven; have top-hammer or down-the-hole drill feeding systems; have conventional or reverse circulation systems; and have conventional or diamond drilling bits. The qualifying learner will know the functioning and operating requirements for the drilling machine, including health, safety and the environmental requirements to be able to operate the machine productively and safely. A qualified learner will be able to: • Operate a drilling machine for mining and construction operations.

Various industry sectors use drilling machines. In particular, drilling operations are an essential part of the construction and mining sectors. South African legislation requires persons to be properly trained and assessed competent before operating machines. This qualification will train and develop the qualifying learner with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to ensure that the drilling machines are operated productively and safely. This will also improve the standard of training and assessment, which will lead to better operations and improved safety and will improve mobility of employment. Most learners will already be employed. The career progression for drillers will be to other machine operator specialisations and to occupations in operations, engineering or training.

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: • NQF 1 qualification with communication and mathematical literacy.

• Carry-out start and end-of-shift procedures and checks, using the knowledge of the workplace and drilling machine specifications, operational standards, systems and procedures to meet all health, safety and environmental requirements.
• Operate the drilling machine, using the knowledge of its performance parameters, controls and operating standards.
• Work safely, applying knowledge of relevant legal and company requirements, hazard identification and risk assessment processes and procedures, including environmental and operating conditions.