Excavator Operator

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an Excavator Operator. An Excavator Operator operates and controls an excavator to dig out material for mining or construction operations. Excavator machine types may: Be electric or diesel driven; have a face-shovel or back-hoe configuration; be wheel or track-mounted; have hydraulically or rope/cable operated boom, stick and bucket systems. The qualifying learner will know the functioning and operating of the excavator, including health, safety and the environmental requirements and will be able to operate the excavator productively and safely. A qualified learner will be able to: • Operate an excavator for mining and construction operations.

There is the need in various sectors of the South African economy for machine operators. In particular, excavators are essential to the construction and mining sectors. South African legislation requires persons to be trained and assessed competent before operating an excavator. This qualification will train and develop the qualifying learner with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to ensure 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 machine operators 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: • Level 1 with communication and mathematical literacy.

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