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 4 of a 9-part article.
Grant Laidlaw. © RACA Journal
National Occupational Certificate and contexts
The National Occupational Certificate for refrigeration is organised into specific contexts based on the type of refrigerant used:
- Context One: For apprentices working primarily with fluorinated refrigerants. This context aligns closely with the traditional refrigeration mechanic role, including both commercial and industrial applications
- Context Two: Focuses on carbon dioxide refrigerants. Apprentices will gain foundational knowledge before specialising in CO2 systems
- Context Three: Addresses ammonia refrigerants. Laidlaw highlighted the urgency of this qualification, noting that many workers currently operate in ammonia environments without formal qualifications, creating legal and safety concerns
Beneath these specialised qualifications is the National Certificate in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, which differs from the refrigeration certificate by focusing more on air-conditioning systems. Laidlaw stressed that this certificate does not delve as deeply into refrigeration topics.
Credit values and qualification duration
The credit values for these qualifications are notably high, with the refrigeration mechanic qualification pegged at 543 credits and the air conditioning technician at 641. Laidlaw argued that these figures are inflated and do not accurately reflect the intended training duration, which should be around three years with approximately 365 credits.
Other qualifications mentioned include:
- Refrigerant Maintenance and Repair Worker: Aimed at individuals performing routine maintenance tasks
- Mobile Refrigeration Fitter: Focused on refrigerated transport systems
- Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Certification Conformity Verifier: Ensures compliance with safety standards
These roles reflect a broad range of industry needs, from compliance verification to specialised equipment installation.
Laidlaw outlined the challenges with current qualifications, noting that many are still in the process of registration and require revisions. He noted that the qualifications cannot be fully registered until there is an approved toolkit for training providers and established trade tests.
The new qualifications incorporate three main components: knowledge modules, practical modules, and workplace modules. Successful completion will lead to certification, which aims to ensure that graduates are well-rounded and competent in their respective fields.
As the air conditioning and refrigeration sector transitions to these new qualifications, there is a clear need for ongoing revisions and updates. The lack of finalised toolkits and trade tests remains a significant barrier. Laidlaw’s insights suggest a dynamic future for the industry, with the potential for improved training standards and greater specialisation to meet evolving market demands.
