Welder

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to: Join metal products in accordance with Welding Procedure Specifications using an electric arc or gas welding process. A qualified learner will be able to: • Perform cutting, gouging and gas welding of ferrous materials using oxy fuel, carbon arc and plasma cutting equipment. • Produce fillet welds using various welding processes. • Produce plate welds using various welding processes. • Produce pipe welds using various welding processes.

This qualification is a listed trade qualification and falls within the Occupational Qualifications Framework of the NQF of South Africa. Of specific importance is the fact that this qualification elevates training of Welders in South Africa to accepted international standards. A wide range of industries in the South African economy employs welders, qualified as artisans .Inclusive are companies in the manufacturing sector, mining, petro-chemical as well as engineering contractors in large and small projects - including projects that are key to the economic development of South Africa such as power supply. This qualification addresses one of the key trades in which labour market shortages for skilled artisans are experienced. Reports of large number of welders contracted from other countries to address the scarcity of welding skills are common. The availability of this Welding qualification for training of trades persons to accepted international standards is regarded as an important resource to support of national artisan development initiatives in South Africa. The qualification ensures that a sound skills base is developed at artisan level that can serve as the foundation for achieving coded welding status required for the execution of specialised welds by industry. The importance of providing opportunities for persons that are unemployed, who seeks to develop skills that allows them to enter into small welding business opportunities in rural and developed areas of the country is supported by the design of the qualification. Specific skill sets in basic welding practices are inclusive and allows for the training of such persons within the overall structure of the trade. Recognition achieved for completion of these skills sets, when delivered by accredited providers, allows the learners to build their portfolio and towards completion of the full trade.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the integrated assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and conform prior learning. Prior learning must be acknowledged by a statement of results. RPL for entry requirements to access the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: • NQF Level 1 with Mathematics and Science.

• The ability to cut, gouge and gas weld ferrous materials.
• The ability to weld ferrous materials including stainless steel using Shielded Metal Arc Welding.
• The ability to weld ferrous and non-ferrous materials using Gas Metal Arc Welding processes.
• The ability to weld ferrous and non-ferrous materials using the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding process.