Survival Equipment Fitter (Parachute Rigger)

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Parachute Rigger. A Parachute Rigger conducts his or her functions on parachute systems through judgement and analysis based on experience and limited information from original equipment manufacturers in order to restore the equipment to a safe and serviceable condition. Replacement components are manufactured using reverse engineering practices. A qualified learner will be able to: • Assemble, inspect and pack reserve parachutes. • Inspect, maintain and perform minor repairs on parachute systems. • Inspect, maintain and perform major repairs on parachute systems.

The Sports and Recreation and Defence industry requires Parachute Riggers within South Africa to be formally recognised with a qualification. The industry requires that the qualification assist in the standardisation of training content and skill levels in terms of international best practices as well as within the two fields in which Parachute Riggers are employed. Prior to this, the knowledge and skills associated with parachute rigging were not formally recognised. This qualification has been developed in conjunction with the Department of Defence and the Parachute Association of South Africa (PASA) both of which are responsible for the training and certification of Parachute Riggers. The current learning pathway and levels prescribed by PASA have been utilised as a foundation for the development of this qualification in order to ensure that it meets the industry requirements. The main benefits of this qualification for the learner are that the learner has the opportunity to be recognised as a qualified artisan with well structured, relevant and current competencies and is able to have access to entrepreneurial opportunities within the Sports and Recreation industry. The Parachute Rigger plays a crucial role in maintaining and enforcing safety standards and levels within the parachuting fraternity. This safeguards society from negligent and reckless Parachutists, while ensuring that the sport can be enjoyed by all.

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 result or 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: • Level 4 with Mathematics.

• Assemble, inspect and pack reserve parachutes.
• Inspect, maintain and perform minor repairs on parachute systems.
• Inspect, maintain and perform major repairs on parachute systems.