Mobile Explosives Manufacturing Unit Controller

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to function as a Mobile Explosives Manufacturing Unit (MEMU) Controller. Mobile Explosives Manufacturing Unit (MEMU) Controllers mix and place bulk explosives by operating MEMUs in the blasting environment. A qualified learner will be able to: • Conduct pre- and post-placement of bulk explosives activities. • Manufacture and place bulk explosives complying with safety, environment, efficiency and quality standards.

In keeping with their commitment to excellence, manufacturers of explosive materials assume the responsibility for the safe, environmentally sensitive, and efficient placement of mixed bulk explosive materials at clients' sites. This work is critical to surface mining and quarrying operations. The knowledge, skills and values needed to carry out this work is considered worthy of national recognition through a national qualification. Legislation requires that operators of mobile explosive manufacturing units (MEMU) must be competent; thus, it is imperative to have a suitable registered qualification to meet the legal requirement. Qualified and competent operators are essential to productive and safe mining and construction. There are currently similar registered qualifications which would be replaced by this qualification, as mentioned in the paragraph above in "qualifications to be replaced". Explosives and mining are some of the economic sectors that need specific knowledge and skills, especially safety of handling explosives and dangerous goods. People with this qualification could be exposed to employment opportunities in chemical manufacturing, construction, and mining sites. They will also be able to work independently, make judgements and decisions which is imperative in such a potentially hazardous context. Using bulk explosives emulsion offers the advantage of a perfect combination of the rock and explosives enabling superior performance of the product, optimisation of the drilling, blasting and downstream operations thereby minimising environmental damage. The key economic benefit of bulk emulsion is the replacement of relatively high, cost packaged explosives with a bulk product. Bulk explosives placement is most capable of delivering the lowest total cost of blasting. In addition to environmental protection, the key practical benefits include water resistance, improved coupling of explosive, reduced toxic gas production, increased shock energy and improved manual handling with bulk products. The qualification cuts across various industries, namely chemical manufacturing, mining and construction. It is therefore a sought-after qualification to ensure competent MEMU controllers across all sectors which will contribute to the general productivity and safety of operations in surface mining, underground mining, and construction sites. The savings potential of the introduction of bulk explosives systems can result in an improvement in drill and blast costs for a mine operator, or a significant increase in profit margin for a contract mining company. Typical learners include individuals practising, and those who have practiced in the mining and construction industries without a formal or a recognised qualification and new entrants into the occupation as per minimum entry requirements. The qualification addresses the knowledge, skills and values necessary for the mixing and placing of the bulk explosive products, liaison with the clients, operating, driving and first line maintenance of the Mobile Explosives Manufacturing Unit (MEMU), together with quality and related matters. This learning is underpinned by process specific calculations and chemistry as applied in the context of explosives and their use. Options for progression from this qualification are into supervision of distribution and placement or depot supervision. In addition, the qualification can lead to technical advising and technical marketing of explosives. Legislation requires that operators of mobile explosive manufacturing units (MEMUs) must be competent. Compliance with the Exit Level Outcomes ensures that the placement of bulk explosives are according to relevant legislation, regulations, and instructions.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): • Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification. • Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part qualification will be credited for modules through 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. Entry Requirements: • Any NQF Level 1 with Communications and Numeracy.

• Demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge, skills and values in the manufacturing and placement of bulk explosives.
• Demonstrate the ability to adhere to occupational health, safety, environment, risk and quality requirements to ensure compliance.
• Manufacture and place bulk explosives according to the blast plan/instruction by operating a MEMU.
• Execute efficient and optimised explosives manufacturing and placement processes.