Traffic Officer

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Traffic Officer. A Traffic Officer performs Road Traffic Law Enforcement duties to ensure a safe and secure traffic environment for all road users on public roads in order to prevent road crashes (vehicle collision) and trauma. A qualified learner will be able to: • Plan and conduct road traffic safety operations, including conducting a chase and providing escort services. • Capture and collate evidence for court. • Evaluate the roadworthiness of vehicles and applicants for leaner's licences and driving licences.

Broader consultation with institutions of higher learning, South African Police Services (SAPS), provincial departments of transport, metros, and other transport agencies was done by the Road Traffic Management Cooperation (RTMC) in collaboration with Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) and Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) prior to the development of the qualification. As a result of all these engagements, this Traffic Officers' qualification was developed. The qualification provides knowledge and skills required by learners operating within the road traffic fraternity. This qualification equips new learners and those who are currently employed within the sector with knowledge and skills to competently function as traffic law enforcement officers. Individuals operating in this sector, such as Traffic Officers, examiners for driving licences, and examiners of vehicles will benefit from this qualification. Qualified learners will have a competitive advantage to gain employment within the road traffic fraternity. The industry will benefit from the employment of qualified learners who will perform their jobs effectively and thereby contribute efficiently to the economy, enhance service delivery, and also play a meaningful role in the reduction of road crashes on our roads. This qualification will enhance professionalisation of the traffic fraternity by addressing the current shortcomings relating to training within the South African road traffic management fraternity. This qualification is in support of the Road Traffic Management Corporation's endeavours to create a new 21st century cadre of traffic personnel, who will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively know and understand the complexity of road safety in the context of the Safe System Approach. It is envisaged that learners who successfully complete this qualification will be able to progress and to be eligible for promotion to higher occupations such as superintendent, crash investigator and traffic manager.

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 certifying a work experience record. Entry Requirements: • An NQF Level 4 with mathematical literacy. RPL: • Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant entry requirements.

• Execute tactical survival skills in conducting road traffic safety operations in respect of road traffic legislation.
• Conduct a high speed chase taking into consideration the safety of road users.
• Evaluate the roadworthiness of vehicles against applicable legislation and set national standards and make the appropriate findings.
• Evaluate applicants for learner's licences and driving licences against applicable legislation and set national standards; and make the appropriate findings.
• Conduct law enforcement activities according to relevant legislation and standard operating procedures with the desired legal outcome.
• Conduct escort activities in accordance with relevant legislation and standard operating procedures.