By Eamonn Ryan
The Southern African Development Community Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (SADC RAC) association held a workshop in Johannesburg in November. This is Part 6 of a seven-part article.
David Botha, the executive director of both the South African Qualification and Certification Committee (SAQCC) and the South African Refrigeration Air Conditioning Contractors’ Association (SARACCA). © RACA Journal
The e-learning pilot is expected to be completed within the next six to eight months, after which SARACCA will reach out to associations and training providers to discuss how this platform can be implemented. The goal is to make the training accessible on devices such as smartphones, allowing trainees to learn at their own pace and convenience. This would also reduce the need for full-time, in-person attendance at training centres, which can be a barrier for many workers due to time and financial constraints.
David Botha, the executive director of both the South African Qualification and Certification Committee (SAQCC) and the South African Refrigeration Air Conditioning Contractors’ Association (SARACCA), While the e-learning model would primarily focus on theoretical aspects, Botha emphasised that hands-on experience is still crucial. Training will not be limited to online courses. Instead, trainees will still be required to participate in practical tests and evaluations at accredited training centres. This hybrid approach is designed to ensure technicians gain both the knowledge and the practical skills necessary for their jobs, without sacrificing their ability to earn a living.
One of the most significant hurdles Botha highlighted is complacency among technicians. Many experienced professionals may have completed their training years ago but have not participated in regular upskilling or refresher courses. This results in outdated practices, which can lead to dangerous shortcuts and unsafe work conditions.
To support training and certification, Botha acknowledged that there also needs to be stronger enforcement of industry regulations. While the industry is growing and evolving, the lack of compliance remains an issue. Often, when workers or companies fail to adhere to safety standards, they can undermine the progress made by those who follow the rules. He suggested that in some cases, it may be necessary to make an example of those who are not compliant, in order to demonstrate that there are consequences for neglecting proper certification and safety practices.
However, Botha also cautioned that the focus should always be on internal improvement, rather than pointing fingers at others. If a company or contractor knows they are not adhering to the proper standards, they must take the initiative to correct their practices. Self-regulation is key to ensuring the overall integrity of the industry.
Botha stressed that technicians have a responsibility to do the right thing. This responsibility extends not only to their own safety but to the safety of others working with them, as well as to future generations. He posed a reflective question to the audience: “Why would you do it incorrectly when you know how to do it right?” The answer, according to Botha, lies in education, compliance and continuous learning. Technicians must be committed to proper training to ensure that they don’t cut corners. Cutting corners, whether out of haste or complacency, can lead to dangerous consequences. As an industry, they must avoid contributing to the environmental and health issues caused by improper handling of refrigerants and air conditioning systems.
Botha warned that if the industry doesn’t act now to train more people, there will soon be a severe shortage of HVAC&R technicians. He emphasised that companies and industry players must be proactive in addressing this shortage. The work is already outpacing the number of trained technicians available, and the demand will only increase over time. If the wrong people are taking on these tasks—those without the proper qualifications—it will negatively affect the entire industry. This is why collaboration and increased training efforts are necessary, so more individuals can be qualified, trained and upskilled.
