Railway Signalling Assembler and Wirer

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Railway Signalling Assembler and Wirer. A Railway Signalling Assembler and Wirer assembles and wires signalling equipment for the safe running of trains. A qualified learner will be able to: • Assemble and wire signalling equipment.

The South African government has set as a priority the shifting of as much traffic as possible - both freight and passenger services from the road to rail. This move necessitates the timely development of the critical competencies of all services closely related to efficient functioning of both freight and passenger train services, and Railway Signalling Maintenance Mechanician is a significant component of these services. Efficiencies in transport systems are closely related to positive socio-economic changes. The reliable functioning of all railway equipment and systems to ensure the safe running of trains are at the core of this relationship. Economic opportunities are likely to increase where train infrastructure systems are geared towards efficient functioning to ensure access to markets and related economic opportunities. Efficiently operated rail transport system will reduce the volume of road traffic pressures on our roads. When more volumes move by motor powered rolling stock supported by efficient signal equipment and systems, more jobs will be created as this ensures economic growth. Persons operating within the rail transport industry, as well as other transport services, will benefit from all aspects of this qualification (theoretical, practical and work experience competencies) as it is needed to render effective and efficient rail transport services. These services are essential for operational requirements of all train services entering South Africa from neighbouring countries. As such, this qualification is essential to set the benchmark for all Railway Signalling Assemblers and Wirers operating in South Africa as well as neighbouring countries. The range of typical learners will, therefore, come from within the rail environment, from other sectors and outside the country. The Railway Signalling Assembler and Wirer is part of a suit of occupational qualifications that has been developed by the rail sector to provide a learning pathway which includes the Train Control Officer, Electricians, Train Driver and other related occupations within the railway environment.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the theory underpinning working safely on railway signal assembling and wiring.
• Assemble and wire signalling equipment.