Raise Bore Operator

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Raise Bore Operator. A Raise Bore Operator operates a raise bore drilling machine. The purpose of the qualification is to equip learners with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills and workplace experience required to operate a raise bore or blind bore drilling machine in the mining or construction sectors. In the mining sector drilling machines may be for both surface and underground use. The qualifying learner will be equipped with know-how in respect of the functioning and operating requirements for the raise bore drilling system and ancillary equipment. The qualification also addresses health, safety and environmental requirements for productive and safe raise bore operations in accordance with organisational requirements. A qualified learner will be able to operate a raise bore drilling machine for raise boring operations.

Raise bore drilling operations are an essential part of the mining and minerals sector. South African legislation requires persons to be properly trained and assessed as competent before operating any industrial equipment or machines. Mining legislation requires workers to be qualified in terms of knowledge, training, skills and experience to perform the activities for which they are appointed. They are to be trained, assessed and found competent in accordance with a recognised training and development programme. This qualification will equip and develop the qualifying learner with the knowledge, skills and experience to operate a raise bore drilling machine productively and safely. The qualification will also improve the standard and consistency of training and assessment across the spectrum of organisations in the sector which in turn will lead to improved productivity and safety. The qualification will, furthermore, enhance the status and employability of learners which will create a platform for access, career progression, portability and mobility. The qualification will create employment opportunities for new entrants, but most learners would already be in the employment of the mining and minerals sector and will continue in their careers. The career progression for raise bore operators will be to other machine operator specialisations and other occupations in operations, engineering or training. The benefits of sustained production of minerals, generation of revenue and economic growth will invite investment in South African mines by investors which in turn will contribute to sustainable employment opportunities in the mining and minerals sector as well as in communities and the wider economy. This qualification will benefit the sector and the economy as the skills and understanding gained by qualifying learners will improve work standards and effectiveness. Economic growth will in turn contribute to social upliftment in the mining and minerals sector which will impact the wider community. Employees will gain recognition for their skills and knowledge through the recognition of prior learning. This in turn will provide a basis for further learning and career development in the sector. The emphasis on safety in the qualification 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, responsibility towards the environment in general, and in observing safety and legal requirements.

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 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 results or by certifying a work experience record. RPL for Access to the Qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: • Occupational Certificate: Driller's Assistant.

• Carry-out pre-start, start-of, end-of and post-shift procedures and checks, using the knowledge of the workplace and the drilling system, associated equipment specifications and operational standards.
• Establish and operate the raise bore drilling system and associated equipment, using knowledge of procedures, performance parameters, controls and operating standards.