Entry Requirements
Learners must hold an NQF Level 2 qualification. In South Africa, this is equivalent to Grade 10. In addition, learners must have at least six months of relevant workplace experience within the designated work area. This ensures that learners have both foundational knowledge and practical exposure.
Purpose of the Programme
This skills programme aims to develop learners so that they can function effectively as Essential Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Representatives in a Low-Risk Operational Environment.
An Essential OHS Representative is an elected employee who represents a designated group of workers. This individual focuses on protecting employees’ OHS rights and promoting safe working conditions within the workplace.
Furthermore, OHS Representatives play an important role in maintaining compliance and improving workplace safety. They actively identify risks, support safety measures, and communicate concerns between employees and management. As a result, organisations can strengthen their safety culture and reduce potential incidents.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the programme, learners will be able to:
- Identify and report potential hazards that may affect employee health and safety in a designated low-risk work area.
- Assist in reviewing the effectiveness of OHS measures within the work environment.
- Explain and participate in workplace incident investigation processes.
- Receive and investigate employee complaints related to OHS in low-risk work areas.
- Make representations to the employer or OHS committee on safety matters and, where necessary, escalate issues to relevant regulatory authorities.
- Inspect low-risk workplaces for compliance with OHS rules and procedures and report any non-compliance.
- Support effective communication of OHS information within the workplace.
Articulation Options
This part-qualification provides different articulation opportunities. However, the following apply:
Horizontal Articulation
Not applicable.
Vertical Articulation
Not applicable.
Diagonal Articulation
Not applicable.
Learning Opportunities
Learners can further develop their knowledge and skills by enrolling in additional Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) skills programmes and related training courses. These opportunities support continuous learning and career growth within the OHS field.
Programme Duration and Assessment
The programme takes place over two days and includes both theoretical and practical learning activities. Learners must complete all modules and demonstrate competence before they can attempt the Final Integrated Supervised Assessment (FISA).
The FISA consists of a written assessment that integrates the relevant Exit Level Outcomes. During the assessment, learners must demonstrate applied knowledge and practical skills to confirm competence as an Essential OHS Representative in a low-risk work area.
The written assessment lasts a maximum of three hours and carries a total of 100 marks. Learners may use a computer during the theoretical component. To be declared competent, learners must achieve at least 70% in both the written and practical components.
In addition, all FISA sessions are supervised. Virtual assessments are recorded and monitored using cameras to ensure integrity and compliance.
During the FISA, learners must complete various questions and tasks based on the following areas, demonstrating their competence:
- Role and Responsibilities of an OHS Representative
- OHS Tools and Procedures
Competence Decision
If a learner demonstrates competence in all assessed areas, the assessor will declare the learner “Competent.”
However, if a learner does not yet demonstrate competence in one or more areas, the assessor will declare the learner “Not Yet Competent (NYC).” In such cases, the learner will receive additional training and will be reassessed using different but relevant tasks or scenarios.
