Industrial Water Plant Operator

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an Industrial Water Plant Operator. An Industrial Water Plant Operator operates and monitors industrial plant to store, distributes and treats industrial water such as demineralisation, desalination, condensate polishing, chemical waste, environmental waste, cooling water, membrane technology and process water including water for human consumption, industrial use, wastewater treatment and fire fighting for sustainable industrial water production. A qualified learner will be able to: • Inspect, evaluate, operate, control and report chemical, biological and physical unit processes and associated plant. • Conduct water sampling and quality test. • Check and report the level of performance of the plant and equipment. • Use information and communicative systems to operate industrial water treatment plant.

The socio-economic growth of the country and water being a scarce resource coupled with the ever-changing environmental landscape within the industrial water sector, require skilled and competent industrial water and wastewater treatment operators to operate industrial water treatment processes. The operators of water supply and wastewater facilities in the water industry require technical operating personnel that are properly trained to meet the ever-increasing challenges due to rapid industrialization and therefore there is industrial waste which requires specific competencies to address or prevent it. The industry is currently experiencing restructuring involving the introduction of sustainable practices, energy and resource efficiency, new green technologies, and clean water, which are all changes that require upgrading significant skills. This qualification will provide learners with requisite skills and competencies to cope with operating demands. It forms the basis for career pathing for those working or intending to work in the industrial water and wastewater sector. This qualification was developed with the full participation of major stakeholders such as ESKOM, CHIETA, FESTO, WISA, Department of Water and Sanitation, Independent consultants, skills development providers, Mining industry, academies and TVET colleges.

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 4 qualifications with Mathematics, Science and Communication.

• Plan, inspect, evaluate, monitor, operate, control and report industrial water treatment processes and associated plan.
• Explain water quality in terms of microbiological, physical and chemical characteristics.
• Identify and interpret relevant legislation, regulations and standards applicable in industrial water treatment.
• Plan, conduct sampling and analyse samples.
• Collect and compile information relating to plant operations and communication systems to operate industrial water treatment plant.