Mine Survey Observer

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Mine Survey Observer. Mine Survey Observers use basic survey techniques, methods and tools; and complete administrative functions and duties; in accordance with organisational, statutory, and regulatory requirements. A qualified learner will be able to: • Use basic survey techniques, methods and tools. • Apply a selection of surveying procedures. • Perform map reading and measuring functions within a mining environment. • Communicate effectively. The qualifying learner will be able to effectively and competently use survey techniques and tools to measure, record mining features; and calculate monthly mine production. The qualification provides learners with opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the broader fields of mine surveying, mine sampling, mine planning and 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.

Mine Surveying fulfils an essential function since the information that is provided is indispensable to all the other mining disciplines. Mine Surveying is an essential component of Mineral Resource Management that provides technical support in terms of measurement, reporting, positional accuracy and direction to the mining process. The role of Mine Surveying has changed in recent times, with changes in legislation, changes in technologies, and work structures. The role of Mine Survey Observers is to provide technical support in terms of accurate measurement and recording of mine workings. This specialised task is critical to the design, planning, and safety of surface and underground mining activities, which must be accurately represented on mine plans. Recent advancements in information technology within the mining industry, coupled with escalating statutory requirements for surveying work, highlight the urgent need to enhance the skills of mine surveyors. This qualification aims to equip potential learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the evolving technological, statutory, and mandatory demands effectively. This qualification offers opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the broader domains of mine sampling, mine planning, and occupational health, safety, and environmental management. The curriculum associated with this qualification comprehensively covers the knowledge and practical skills essential for operations in underground hardrock mines, underground coal mines, and surface excavations. Geospatial data forms the foundation of mining. Mining surveyors are responsible for the accurate measurement of areas and volumes mined, plus the precise representation of the surface and underground situation on mining plans. improve the safety of any surface and underground mining operations. The qualification will enhance the mining sector and benefit society by equipping learners with the skills and technical competencies needed to elevate work standards and improve the safety of any surface and underground mining operations. 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 registering for this qualification will typically be working within the mining industry or Survey Assistants who would like to advance their skills in mine surveying. Mine workers with appropriate experience seeking to advance their careers will also benefit from this qualification. The typical learning pathway in mining operations would be Mine Technical Support Services Assistant: Survey/Planning skills programme at NQF Level 2, Mine Survey Observer at NQF Level 3, then National Occupational Certificate: Mine Survey Officer at NQF Level 4, with specialisations in Surveying, Sampling, Geology or Mine Planning then a Mine Survey Supervisor/Chief Surveyor at NQF Level 7. There are currently no other similar qualifications registered under the OQSF. Related occupations and professions include: • 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 Survey Observer. Collaboration with relevant stakeholders during 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).

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for Access: Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. 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 programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme 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 to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA): Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme 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. 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 programme. 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 Certificate 2 with Communication and Mathematics. • An NQF Level 2 Skills Programme: Mine Technical Support Services Assistant: Survey/Planning.

• Apply knowledge and skills to use basic survey techniques, methods and tools to perform survey functions.
• Measure and record mining features and calculate monthly mine production.
• Apply procedures and techniques to perform map reading and measuring functions within a mining environment.
• Apply communication strategies to convey messages effectively.