Mine Sampling Observer

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Mine Sampling Observer. Mine Sampling Observers perform basic survey and sampling functions, collect, process, and capture sampling data, and complete administrative functions and duties in accordance with organizational, statutory, and regulatory requirements. A qualified learner will be able to: • Perform elementary mine sampling, functions; collect, process, and capture sample data. • Perform basic surveys, map reading, and measuring functions within a mining environment. • Perform basic geological functions pertinent to the mining environment. • Observe and apply Occupational Health, Safety, and Environmental standards in the workplace. • Communicate effectively. This qualification offers learners avenues for professional growth and career advancement within the broader fields of mine surveying, occupational health, safety, and environmental management. Graduate attributes: • Honesty • Integrity • Punctuality • Time management • Self-motivated • Responsibility • Accountability • Interpersonal relations • Ethical behaviour • Well organised • Self-confidence • Confidentiality

In the mining industry, it is very important to obtain information on the ore that is mined. Samplers are responsible for taking samples for analysis on a regular basis. The role of Mine Sampling Observers is critical in Mineral Resource Management, where skills in this area are scarce. Samplers take of samples on-site, either in an open-cast or underground mine. They visit different sections of the mine on a daily basis to take ore samples. This is a specialised task since the information obtained from the ore is vital for planning. The complexity of the work is increasing with the development of new technologies, along with the increasing statutory requirements for sampling work, have highlighted the need to enhance the dwindling skills of mine samplers. This qualification aims to equip potential learners with the required knowledge and skills to adapt to the evolving technological, statutory, and mandatory requirements. This qualification offers opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the broader domains of mine sampling, occupational health, safety, and environmental management. This qualification covers the required knowledge and practical skills needed for mine sampling. The required work experience will be limited to the specific context where the learners find themselves. Sampling is among the most fundamental activities in a mining operation. The simple act of taking a sample and the information contained in the result enables a mine to decide a course of action. This may involve the opening or closing a mine, or deciding if a truckload of mineralised rock should be sent to the mill for processing or the waste dump. The qualification will enhance the mining sector and benefit society by equipping learners with the skills and technical competencies needed to elevate work standards, comply with occupational health, safety, and environmental regulations, and work safely and efficiently. This proficiency will not only boost productivity but also contribute to the nation's economy. A strengthened economy attracts both local and international investors, thereby further stimulating economic growth and development. Learners for this qualification will typically be new entrants to the mining sector or Mine Sampling Assistants. Mine workers with appropriate experience seeking to advance their careers will also benefit from this qualification. The typical learning pathway would be Mine Technical Services Support Assistant: Sampling Operations at NQF Level 2, Mine Sampling Observer at NQF Level 3, Mine Sampling Officer at NQF Level 4, then Mine Section Valuator at NQF Level 6. This qualification will assist in formalising of the requirements for this very important occupation. There will be an opportunity for RPL for mine employees, and this will allow new industry entrants to be fast tracked to a productive career. There are currently no other similar qualifications registered under the OQSF. The following stakeholders from various sectors were involved in the development of this qualification: • Workplace Practitioners. • Assessors and moderators. • Private Training Providers. • Teaching and learning specialist. • Curriculum Development Specialist. • Other (The Minerals Council of South Africa). Typical occupations: • Mine Sampling Observer

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for Access Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills qualification. Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills qualification. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors. RPL for Exemption For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. RPL for awarding credits Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. RPL for access into the External Integrated Summative Assessment. A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved. Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO. Entry Requirements: • An NQF Level 2 qualification with Communication and Mathematics. • An NQF Level 2 Skills Programme Mine Technical Support Services Assistant: Sampling Operations.

• Apply mine sampling procedures and processes to carry out elementary mine sampling functions, including collection, processing, and capturing sample data.
• Apply knowledge and techniques to perform basic survey, map reading and measuring functions within a mining environment.
• Demonstrate the ability to perform basic geological functions pertinent to the mining environment.
• Observe and apply knowledge and understanding of Occupational Health, Safety, and Environmental standards applicable to workplaces.
• Communicate effectively.