Mining Technician: Mine Ventilation Observer

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Mining Technician: Mine Ventilation Observer to observe, measure, record and report aspects of the occupational mine environmental conditions in order to provide information for ventilation engineering decision making and legal compliance. A qualified learner will be able to: • Collect/observe, record and report mine occupational environmental conditions. • Initiate appropriate actions to correct sub standard mine occupational environmental conditions and report on actions taken.

This is an entry level occupation that is required for entry and progression in the occupation. It is always crucial to maintain effective and efficient ventilation underground in the mines to avoid fatalities as a result of toxic gasses. There have been incidents that have happened underground in the mining sector and lives have been sacrificed in the process. The qualification is to develop and provide learners with opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the broader constituencies of the Ventilation, Occupational Health and Safety (VH and S) community. The qualification will contribute to providing a better and safer working place for all people in the Mining industry in the Republic of South Africa. It will assist those occupational health and safety professionals who play an increasingly complex and crucial role in ensuring that the health and safety of employees are guaranteed. On completion of this qualification learners will have a well-grounded and comprehensive understanding of the key issues that are essential to meeting these high demands. The qualification covers the key issues involved at occupational level and the learning covers underground and surface mining in hard rock and coal. The work experience components of the curriculum are limited to the specific context in which the learner operates.

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 guided by the Institution's own RPL policy and the National Policy on RPL 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. Entry Requirements: Prospective learners are expected to have at least a: • NQF Level 2 qualification with Communication Skills and Mathematical Literacy.

• Collect record and report mine occupational environmental condition.
• Initiate appropriate actions to correct sub standard mine occupational environmental conditions and report on actions taken.