In the October SAIRAC Johannesburg Centre online Tech Talk hosted by Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Academy (ACRA) owner Grant Laidlaw, the future of air conditioning and refrigeration training was a central theme. With the legacy trade tests already phased out since June 30, 2024, the discussion focused on the transitional landscape and emerging qualifications in the industry.
This is the transcript of the presentation, edited by Eamonn Ryan, and is Part 2 of a 9-part article.
Grant Laidlaw. © RACA Journal
Challenges with current qualifications
Many dormant and provider-based qualifications have been eliminated, which poses problems for training in essential areas like working at heights, fire safety, and first aid—particularly for those who were not registered with accredited training providers before the June 30, 2024 deadline. This abrupt change has left a significant gap in accessible qualifications, limiting options for learners seeking necessary certifications.
The legacy trades, including refrigeration mechanics, are transitioning to occupational qualifications, which have been reorganised into various categories such as general occupational certificates. Previously, general certificates spanned National Qualifications Framework (NQF) levels one through four, with the trade test found at level four. The new structure places trade testing under the National Occupational Certificate, a change that primarily reflects a shift in terminology rather than in the qualification’s essence.
Currently, there are limited Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO)-approved skills programmes, such as the Safe Handling of Refrigerants programme. Laidlaw highlighted that while there is potential for growth in occupational certifications, especially in advancing to bachelor’s degree levels, there are currently no advanced diplomas or higher qualifications in place.
Collaboration in qualification development
The development of new qualifications has involved a collaborative effort by a 40-member team that includes employers, employee organisations, assessment experts, and regulatory bodies. After drafting the qualifications, they were subjected to public comment, which revealed several flaws, particularly concerning credit values.
One significant issue arose from the high credit value assigned to the qualification, primarily influenced by the requirements from the Institute for Working at Heights. The proposed credit structure suggested extensive training not aligned with industry needs, emphasising the necessity for targeted revisions to better suit the practical requirements of refrigeration professionals.
The air conditioning and refrigeration industry stands at a pivotal moment as it navigates the transition from legacy systems to new occupational qualifications. Stakeholders must engage in discussions to refine and finalise these qualifications to ensure they meet the sector’s practical demands and foster the development of skilled technicians in the field. The potential for creating advanced qualifications akin to those in countries like Germany could further elevate the industry in South Africa, but only if a focused approach is adopted in curriculum development and assessment standards.
“As a site controlled by NAB, we previously had multiple contracts for our learnerships: one for level two, one for level three, and one for level four. Now, we have consolidated this into a single contract for the entire period, which will simplify the process significantly. Previously, there were delays between level two and level three while we registered participants and awaited certification from the seater, which often prolonged the learnership process,” says Laidlaw.
“One reason for the learnerships’ lack of popularity may have been the complexity of the various qualifications involved. While these qualifications may resemble apprenticeships, they are designed to achieve specific workplace job profiles based on parts of the main qualification. Additionally, we offer skills programmes—targeted courses provided by training providers for specific purposes. Most of these programmes do not constitute national qualifications, with the exception of the Safe Handling of Refrigerants, which is a nationally registered skills programme.”
