Offshore Driller

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an Offshore Driller An Offshore Driller operates an offshore mining drilling system. Learners will be equipped with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills and workplace experience to operate an offshore mining drilling system and related operations, primarily for the offshore mining sector, the drilling systems will be on board ships, the qualifying learner will know the functioning and operating requirements for the mining drilling system and ancillary equipment, including health, safety and environmental requirements, to be able to operate the machine productively and safely in accordance with organisational requirements. A qualified learner will be able to: • Carry-out shift procedures and checks. • Operate an offshore mining system.

Who should enrol? Entry-level workers, school leavers, or career changers who want to gain foundational skills. The Offshore Driller welcomes learners from diverse backgrounds, including those with limited formal education but relevant practical experience. The flexible learning approach ensures that everyone can progress at their own pace while achieving the same high standard of competence.

Many industry sectors use a variety of different types of drilling machines. In particular, offshore drilling mining operations are an essential part of the mining and minerals sector. The South African diamond mining sector identified the need and participated in the development of this qualification. In addition, there are similar diamond mining operations in other countries within the African Continent. Cooperation and exchange in terms of training and operations exists between South Africa and other countries. This type of mining is termed alluvial, and opportunities exist to extend the use of the same mining system for other minerals such as gold and other metals in the future. South African legislation, as per the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the Mine Health and Safety Act requires persons to be properly trained and assessed competent before operating machines. In terms of mining legislation, the MHSA workers who are appointed must be qualified by virtue of their knowledge, training, skills and experience to perform the activities as contemplated; and must be trained, assessed and found competent in accordance with a recognised training and development programme. This qualification will train and develop the qualifying learners with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to ensure that an offshore drilling mining system is operated productively and safely, which will also improve the standard and consistency of training and assessment across all organisations leading to improved operations, productivity and safety. It will further enhance the status and employability of learners, creating a platform for access, career progression, portability and mobility. Most learners will already be employed, may be currently appointed in other positions, or may be new entrants and will continue to find employment in the sector. In addition, current employees who are already appointed as Offshore Drillers will have the opportunity for RPL and achievement of the qualification. The career progression for Offshore Drillers will be to other machine operator specialisations, senior driller, and to further occupations in "in-port" operations, including engineering or training. The benefits of sustained production of minerals, increased generation of revenue for the economy, greater investment in South African mines by investors and sustainable employment opportunities all impact on the mining and minerals sector, communities and the wider economy. The skills and understanding gained by qualifying learners will improve work standards and effectiveness and contribute to economic growth and social upliftment of employees within the sector and in the wider community; and will allow employees to gain recognition for their skills and knowledge through the recognition of prior learning and provide a basis for further learning and career development within the sector. The emphasis in the qualification on safety will enhance the safety and well-being of everyone in the sector. Qualifying learners will also develop an awareness of their role in conserving resources as well as behaving responsibly towards the environment in general, and in observing safety and legal requirements.

• Conduct drilling operations, demonstrating understanding of the concepts and knowledge of the workplace and the drilling system, associated equipment operation, specifications, and standards, applying and ensuring occupational health, safety and environmental standards and procedures are met.
• Operate the offshore mining system and associated equipment, demonstrating understanding of the concepts and knowledge of the operation of the drilling system, procedures, performance parameters, controls and operating standards, the workplace, the mining system, associated equipment, specifications and operational standards and procedures, applying and ensuring occupational health, safety and environmental standards and procedures are met.