SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Operate a tower crane 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
116255  Operate a tower crane 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Civil Engineering Construction 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction Civil Engineering Construction 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 2  NQF Level 02  20 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 
2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-06-30   2029-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
The qualifying learner is capable of:

Demonstrating an integrated practical and theoretical grounding in Crane Operations according to safe handling and maintenance practices in compliance with crane manufacturer's and legislated standards.

The contribution to The National Skills Development Strategy is the key developmental interface between learners and new competencies to be achieved.

Learners who master the applied competence described in this unit standard will contribute to the development of a professional community of Civil Engineering Construction Crane Operators who are able to competently use science and technology when applying operation techniques

The contribution to socio-economic transformation is that learners will be able to undergo RPL-assessment and thereby receive recognition for previous learning and experience. This in turn will enhance the employability and career prospects of learners employed in this sector. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
The following knowledge, skills attitude and/or equivalent:

Learning assumed to be in place
NQF Level 1 Numeracy and NQF Level 1 Literacy

The driver should be declared physically fit and have completed an eyesight test (such as the Orthorator test, the Purdue University Test No. 3, etc.) and an industry recognised depth perception and hand-eye co-ordination test.

It is assumed that people starting to learn towards this unit standard have already undergone company induction, have an appropriate licence to operate in the work area, and are competent in unit standards which address:
  • Relevant Code of practice
  • Occupational Health, Safety and General Housekeeping
  • Mechanical Awareness and Plant Appreciation 

  • UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    In the range of a rated capacity of up to 50 Tons

    Limited to work carried out on a standard crane, or with standardised fittings

    Major components include:
  • Chassis
  • Tower & jib
  • Counter weight, hoist
  • Jib & cab
  • Hoist & slew systems
  • Brakes & Transmission
  • Trolley & hookblock

    Factors influencing safety and suitability of a crane:
  • Stability
  • Suitability
  • State of repair
  • Proximity of other machines and workers

    Statutory requirements include but are not limited to:
  • Relevant Code of practice
  • Safety, Health & Environmental legislation
  • Local Provincial authority requirements

    Appropriate checklist is any one or a combination of the following:
  • Manufacturer's checklist
  • Pre-operational checklist
  • Site-specific checklist
  • Daily checklist
  • Weekly checklist
  • Site-specific checklist

    Inspecting and recording the operational fitness of all components of the crane should cover:
  • Structural Components
  • Mechanical & Electrical Systems
  • Cab, controls & levers
  • Mast Sections
  • Chassis & Ballast
  • Hoist Ropes, Trolley & Hookblock

    Worksite procedures include manufacturer's procedures, operators manuals and site operational requirements, or similar procedures
  • Corrective action includes inspections and/or reporting
  • Controls include levers, switches forwards, reverse, left, right, gear selection, braking
  • All implement and attachment movements
  • Corrective action includes repairing and/or reporting 

  • Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Demonstrate knowledge of the functions of a tower crane. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The main functions of Tower Crane's are explained in terms of manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The operation of all major components is explained in terms of their functions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    All safety features and warning devices on the crane are identified, and their purposes explained in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The maximum operating capacities are explained in terms of the designed crane capabilities. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Warnings from crane indicators and gauges are explained according to manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Corrective actions are described or demonstrated in terms of neutralising warnings received. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Identify the safety and suitability of crane. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Demonstrate the ability to identify the suitability of the crane prior to utilisation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Demonstrate ability to assess operational capability of lifting equipment (e.g. correct SWL of slings etc). 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the influence of load/range characteristics, manufacturers' requirements and environmental conditions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Demonstrate an understanding of what constitutes safety in the broader working environment, and when operating a tower crane in compliance with statutory regulations. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Apply the recognised methods for inspecting and recording the operational fitness of all components of the crane. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Pre-operational checks are carried out according to appropriate checklist. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Daily and weekly operator maintenance is performed according to the appropriate post-operational checklist and recordkeeping using a logbook 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Checklist is completed according to worksite procedures and corrective action taken if required, ensuring compliance with manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Appropriate measures used to rectify and/or prevent basic faults and defects in the mechanical function of the crane are identified. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Operate tower crane. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The purpose of the various controls is explained in accordance with their designed use. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Functions of the various controls are demonstrated in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Controls are used to effectively manoeuvre the crane within manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Safe working procedures are followed according to manufacturer's specifications, site specific and statutory requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Crane performance is monitored and corrective action is taken when necessary, in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Crane is operated without risk of damage or loss to machine or property, or injury to people. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Hazards specific to operating Tower Crane's and ways to minimise these are explained in terms of potential damage to machine and property, and injury to people. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Start-up and shutdown procedures are followed according to manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
    Crane is set up according to manufacturer's and company requirements. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the CETA-ETQA
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this unit standard must be accredited as a provider with the CETA-ETQA
  • CETA-ETQA or other ETQA's who have a Memorandum of Understanding in place with CETA-ETQA would be responsible for moderation of learner achievements of learners who meet the requirements of this qualification. 

  • UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
  • Tower crane operating procedures and main functions of all major components and systems
  • The maximum operating capacities of the designed working capabilities.
  • Statutory requirements including the Relevant Code of practice and Safety, Health & Environmental legislation
  • Recognized hand signals (and other methods of communication) to direct the crane movements.
  • Selection of crane against environmental restraints 

  • UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems

    Evident in the following specific outcomes and assessment criteria:

    Demonstrate knowledge of the functions of a tower crane
  • Corrective actions are described or demonstrated in terms of neutralising warnings received. 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others

    Evident in the following specific outcomes and assessment criteria:

    Apply the recognised methods for inspecting and recording the operational fitness of all components of the crane > Checklist is completed according to worksite procedures and corrective action taken if required, ensuring compliance with manufacturer's specifications. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Employ self management

    Evident in the following specific outcomes and assessment criteria:

    Apply the recognised methods for inspecting and recording the operational fitness of all components of the crane
  • Daily and weekly operator maintenance is performed according to the appropriate post-operational checklist and recordkeeping using a logbook. 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Manage information

    Evident in the following specific outcomes and assessment criteria:

    Demonstrate knowledge of the functions of a tower crane
  • Warnings from crane indicators and gauges are explained according to manufacturer's specifications. 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively

    Evident in the following specific outcomes and assessment criteria:

    Apply the recognised methods for inspecting and recording the operational fitness of all components of the crane > Appropriate measures used to rectify and/or prevent basic faults and defects in the mechanical function of the crane are identified. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Demonstrate scientific and technological competence

    Evident in the following specific outcomes and assessment criteria:

    Identify the safety and suitability of the crane.
  • Demonstrate ability to assess operational capability of lifting equipment (e.g. correct SWL of slings etc).
  • Demonstrate an understanding of what constitutes safety in the broader working environment, and when operating a Tower Crane in compliance with statutory regulations. 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Understand contextual world-systems

    Evident in the following specific outcomes and assessment criteria:

    Identify the safety and suitability of the crane
  • Demonstrate an understanding of what constitutes safety in the broader working environment, and when operating a Tower Crane in compliance with statutory regulations.

    Operate a tower crane
  • Hazards specific to operating Tower Crane's and ways to minimise these are explained in terms of potential damage to machine and property, and injury to people. 

  • UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    N/A 

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  48961   National Certificate: Construction: Crane Operations  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  CETA 
    Elective  59729   National Certificate: Mechanical Handling (Rigging)  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 
    Elective  48794   National Certificate in Quality Checking of Tyres and Tyre Components  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  71989   National Certificate: Automotive Components: Manufacturing and Assembly  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  58862   National Certificate: Electro-Mechanical Winding  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  58720   National Certificate: Engineering Fabrication  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 
    Elective  64829   National Certificate: Lifting Machine Operations  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  TETA 
    Elective  23255   National Certificate: Mechanical Engineering: Fitting and Machining  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  91926   National Certificate: Mechanical Engineering: Machining and Tooling  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 
    Elective  67609   National Certificate: Mechatronics  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  79666   National Certificate: Metal and Engineering Manufacturing Processes  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  64190   National Certificate: Metals Production  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 
    Elective  49449   National Certificate: Plastics Manufacturing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  36155   National Certificate: Polymer Composite Fabrication  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  79407   National Certificate: Polymer Compound Manufacturing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  21012   National Certificate: Power and Telecommunication Cable Manufacturing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  24217   National Certificate: Thermoplastic Fabrication  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  48798   National Certificate: Tyre and Tyre Component Manufacturing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  48795   National Certificate: Tyre Assembly  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  57886   National Certificate: Welding Application and Practice  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. AA Technical Services (PTY) LTD 
    2. Alika Investment CC 
    3. Aveng Grinaker -LTA Civil Engineering 
    4. Bonticom (Pty) Ltd 
    5. Circleway College 
    6. Dee-Bravo Training Centre 
    7. Devolden Group 
    8. Diversity technology Training Institute 
    9. Dreyer & Dreyer Risk Solutions 
    10. Driven Machinery Training Services cc 
    11. Edu Wize Group Pty Ltd 
    12. Educon Training and Development PTY LTD 
    13. Excellect 209 (PTY) LTD 
    14. Excellect 209 PTY LTD 
    15. Exclusive Training and Services 
    16. Exclusive Training Services 
    17. G T Training Service Provider 
    18. Hazchemwize (PTY) Ltd 
    19. He and She Driver Training Centre 
    20. Human Resources Education Training & Development 
    21. imithetho labour law 
    22. Intellectual Technical Training Institute 
    23. Johnson Crane Hire (Pty) Ltd 
    24. Juan-Tech Rentals Pty Ltd 
    25. Kriel Training (PTY) LTD 
    26. Learning Exchange Pty (Ltd) 
    27. Licence Wise 
    28. Lifting Operator Training Centre cc 
    29. LTM Training & Remote Learning Solutions 
    30. LTM Training and Remote Learning Solutions 
    31. Marholeni M Trading Enterprize 
    32. Matovu Training Center 
    33. Mectom Skills Development and Training 
    34. Merrod Trading 122 Pty Ltd 
    35. Mpofu Engineering Projects 
    36. OHS Legislative Training CC 
    37. Precision skills development and training 
    38. Primeserv Corporate Solutions (Pty) Ltd 
    39. Sediba Sabasadi Skills Training Academy (Pty) Ltd 
    40. Seshego Risk Management Solutions (Pty) Ltd 
    41. Striving Mind Academy and Consultancy Pty Ltd 
    42. SVA Training 
    43. The Assessment Zone (Pty) Ltd 
    44. The Skills Authority 
    45. The Skills Matrix 
    46. Tjeka Training Matters Pty Ltd 
    47. Training Consultant and SD College 
    48. Transvaal Legislative Training 
    49. Transvaal Training 
    50. True-Blue Training (Pty) Ltd 
    51. Tshireletso Multi-skills and Training 
    52. Wheelman S A 
    53. Wild Boar Fire cc 



    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.