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 5 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
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), noted that in the coming years he anticipates more training initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between informal experience and formal qualifications. He noted that the industry is already working with training providers to develop curricula for new refrigerant systems, such as CO2 and ammonia, and ensure that all technicians receive up-to-date training on emerging technologies. As more specialised systems become common, the need for technicians who can handle these systems safely and efficiently will increase, and proper certification will become even more important.
For now, Botha pointed out that the C-level certifications are reserved for qualified engineers and designers who are responsible for the more advanced technical aspects of system design and installation. These professionals must hold the relevant engineering qualifications to work in the industry at this level, ensuring that they have the technical expertise to design complex systems and oversee their implementation.
One of the major issues, Botha pointed out, is the shortage of training centres. This problem is not unique to South Africa, as many countries around the world face similar difficulties in providing sufficient training opportunities for technicians. In South Africa, while the database currently holds around 7 000 registered practitioners, this number is a small fraction of the actual workforce. According to Botha’s estimates, the true number of professionals working in the industry could be as high as 40 000 to 50 000, but many of these individuals are not properly registered or certified.
He also noted that some workers, particularly those working informally or on smaller jobs, are handling refrigerants illegally. For example, technicians working on car air conditioning systems by the roadside may not be certified but continue to do so. Botha stressed that this issue is not just a South African problem but is seen globally, and it highlights the importance of better regulation, training, and enforcement to ensure all workers are qualified.
As part of the industry’s efforts to improve compliance, Botha discussed how SARACCA and SAQCC Gas are working together to implement initiatives like that announced by director Molefe for the 402 trainees. This programme aims to train more individuals who can write out Certificates of Conformity (CoCs), which are necessary for those working on HVAC&R systems. Currently, newcomers must complete five-day courses to become certified, and renewals for practitioners are typically two-day courses. These short courses help technicians stay up to date with regulations and safe practices.
Botha acknowledged that the existing training providers (14 in South Africa) cannot keep up with the demand for skilled workers. He emphasised the importance of training more people and developing better ways to reach larger numbers of technicians across the country. One of the solutions being developed is e-learning. SARACCA is working on an e-learning platform to provide online training for basic concepts, which would allow trainees to learn from home. The goal is to offer flexibility so that technicians can learn while continuing to work, thus minimising their time away from their jobs and incomes.
