DRAFT OCCUPATIONAL CURRICULUM – SAMPLER: MINING HARDROCK

Occupational Curriculum Document /
Curriculum Code / Curriculum Title

SAMPLER: MINING (Hard Rock)

Document Status
DRAFT
Development Quality Partner / Name / Physical Address / Phone / Logo
Mine Qualifications Authority / 4th Floor
Union Corporation Building
74-78 Marshall Street
Johannesburg / 011 630 3500

Contents

SAMPLER: MINING

SECTION I: Curriculum Overview

1.National Occupational Pathway Information

1.1.Occupational Cluster

1.2.Occupational Field

2.Occupational Information

2.1.Related Occupations

2.2.Occupation or Specialisation addressed by this Curriculum

2.3.Alternative Titles used by Industry

3.Curriculum Information

3.1.Relation of this Curriculum to the Occupation and Occupational Progression

3.2.CURRICULUM STRUCTURE – Sampler: Mining

3.3.International Comparability

3.4.Entry Requirements

4.Assessment Quality Partner

5.Modules of Employable Skills

SECTION 2: Occupational Profile

Section 3: Learning Component Specification

3A. Knowledge Subjects

3B Practical Skills Modules

3C. Work Experience Modules

Work Experience Record

SECTION I: Curriculum Overview

This curriculum is targeted at occupations at the entry level of the career pathway for Sampling. The focus of the curriculum is on the specialisation area “MINING”. The curriculum development was initiated by the Mine Qualifications Authority upon request from the industry. Successful completion of this curriculum should lead to a NQF level 4 qualification and thus open up entry into further studies to obtain a degree/diploma in a related field of study through a Higher Education Institution. The curriculum covers the required knowledge and practical skills needed in Hardrock Mines. The required work experience will be limited to the specific context where the learner finds him/herself. The role of the Sampler (Mining) is critical in Mineral Resource Management. Skills in this area are scarce and the complexity level of the work is growing with the development of new technologies and increasing legal and environmental requirements

1.National Occupational Pathway Information

1.1.Occupational Cluster

1.2.Occupational Field

2.Occupational Information

2.1.Related Occupations

311701002 / Sampler: Mining
Sampler Mining: Collect rock samples, process and plot data (manually or electronic)for evaluating mineral resources in hardrock mines

2.2.Occupation or Specialisation addressed by this Curriculum

2.3.Alternative Titles used by Industry

3.Curriculum Information

3.1.Relation of this Curriculum to the Occupation and Occupational Progression

Assessment Strategy

Registered assessors will observe the execution of practical tasks in simulated and actual work environments. The critical theoretical aspects will be assessed by means of a standardised integrated question paper. The assessment quality partner will develop a data bank of assessment item

3.2.CURRICULUM STRUCTURE – Sampler: Mining

Number / Title / NQF Level / Credits
KNOWLEDGE SUBJECTS
311701002-KS-1 / Mine Sampling Practice (I) / 3 / 24
311701002-KS-2 / Mining Engineering Practice (I) / 4 / 119
TOTAL CREDITS FOR KNOWLEDGE / 20% / 3543
PRACTICAL SKILLS
311701002-PM-1 / Capturing sample analysis data onto evaluation systems. / 3 / 89
311701002-PM-2 / Collecting Underground Hardrock samples / 3 / 19
216502001-PM-2 / Measuring and plotting volumes and areas of monthly mine production. / 4 / 8
TOTAL CREDITS FOR PRACTICAL SKILLS / 20% / 356
WORK EXPERIENCE
311701002-WM-2 / Rock samples available for analysis / 3 / 105
TOTAL CREDITS FOR WORK EXPERIENCE / 60% / 105
184
TOTAL FOR THE QUALIFICATION / 180

3.3.International Comparability

Countries where similar Qualifications are found / Title of Qualifications / Level / Duration

3.4.Entry Requirements

Educational/Physical/Legislative
  • Successful completion of the National Foundational Learning Competence IS AN ELEGIBILITY REQUIREMENT
  • (Eligibility Requirement)
  • Mathematics OR Mathematical literacy at Grade 12 or equivalent qualification at (NQF4) is an entry requirement. (Eligibility Requirement)
  • Physically capable of executing the work in mines (Entry Requirement)
  • Relevant NQF 3 unit standard based qualification and/or the Basic Certificate Sampling issued by the Chamber of Mines. (

4.Assessment Quality Partner

Name / Type of Organisation / Contact Details
A structure set up and coordinated by the MQA. The structure must consist of mandated participation from the Institute of Mine Surveyors of SA and the Geological Society of SA.

5.Modules of Employable Skills

Modules of Employable Skills
Employable Skill Number / Title / Credits
Modules of Employable Skill Title:
Purpose:
Number of Module / Knowledge Subjects / Practical Skill Module Number / Work Experience Module Number / Credits
Modules of Employable Skill Title:
Purpose:
Number of Module / Knowledge Subjects / Practical Skill Module Number / Work Experience Module Number / Credits

SECTION 2: Occupational Profile

Occupational Profile

311701002 - Sampler: Mining

Occupational Purpose:

Sampler Mining: Collect rock samples and associated information, process and plot data (manually and/or electronic) for evaluating of broken ore and mineral resources/reserves.

Occupational Tasks:

  1. Capturing sample analysis data onto evaluation systems.
  2. Collecting Hardrock samples

TASK 1. Capturing sample analysis data onto evaluation systems. (NQF Level: 3)

Unique Product or Service

Sample and associated data results available for analysis and evaluation

Knowledge Focus

  • Operating principles of mine sample evaluation systems (Intermediate)
  • Fundamental principles of the assay process (Basic)
  • Processes for the verification of sample analysis data (Intermediate)

Occupational Responsibility

  • Process sampling information
  • Report and communicate final observations and sample results.

Obtain relevant data. Access relevant programes on the computer and input data or process assay and field data manually. Create/Print initial report. Verify that information on report is accurate. Superimpose geological information on reports Plot information and results onto relevant plans and records. Ensure information is checked. Distribute signed off report to relevant persons.

Practical Skills

  • Capture, plot and transfer rock sample data and measurements on relevant media and compile communication reports.

Occupational Context

  • Sample analysis processes

In executing this task, the incumbent must interface with the appropriate electronic and manual sampling data capture programmes and systems, direct supervisor, line managers. Interface with the various service departments. Tools range from computer, calculators, plotters, printers, drafting equipment and plans.

2. Collecting Underground Hardrock samples(NQF Level: 3)

Unique Product or Service

Rock samples available for analysis

Knowledge Focus

  • Purpose and principles of sampling (Intermediate)
  • Concepts and principles of tape surveying (Intermediate)
  • Fundamental Survey, statistical (Limited to raw data) and volume calculation, plotting and projections principles. (Intermediate)
  • Principles and concepts of planes (2D and 3D) within a mining environment. (Intermediate)
  • Principles and application of foundational statistical analysis and formulae. (Limited to raw data) (Basic)
  • The mining value chain and the typical processes and departments involved in mining including the various terminologies and definitions. (Basic)
  • Occupational health and safety practice applicable to sampling (Advanced)
  • Concepts and principles of strata control (Basic)

Occupational Responsibility

a. Prepare for sampling tasks

  • (Safely access workings to execute sampling tasks
  • Oversee the taking of samples
  • Record associated geological and sampling information

Determine the location of samples to be taken. Obtain permission to conduct the sampling. Oversee the preparation of material and equipment for conducting sampling. Arrange with the sampling team to conduct sampling. Obtain permission to enter the working place. Check the working place to determine that sampling is possible. Physically check the safety of the workplace. DEVELOPMENT: Establish the position of the last sample section. STOPING/DEVELOPMENT: Establish position of first sample section. Tie in first section to survey peg. Make safe before conducting sampling. Prepare face for sampling. Identify the mineral deposit, contact and correlate the mineral deposit Mark the face for sampling. Measure and record the width of samples. Oversee the Cutting/chipping rock face to take the samples. Collect, bag, label and secure the samples. DEVELOPMENT)

b. Take measurements

(Measure height and width of the development end. STOPING: Measure stoping width and other features such as shale partings, faults, fractures, dykes, fissures, joints as required. Mark and record all geological discontinuities. Correlate mineral deposit between sections. Record mineral deposit in hanging/foot wall. Measure and record position, dip, displacement, strike, loss or gain of geological features Measure and record the position of the working face.)

c. Transport samples to surface and assay laboratory.

Practical Skills

  • Take rock samples in underground hardrock mining areas.
  • Read, interpret and update a mine plan.

Occupational Context

  • Ore sampling processes

This task is executed according to a systematic sampling protocol and schedule. Broken ore and ad-hoc samples are included. In executing the task the incumbent must interface with direct supervisors and relevant line management, rock sample transport service providers and laboratory staff. Anomalies are reported to surveyors and geologists. Tools range from hammers and chisels to electric and pneumatic rock cutters. Basic measuring equipment is used. The work is conducted with the assistance of a small sampling team.

Work Experience

  • Take a full range of rock samples in mines.
  • Measuring and plotting volumes and areas of monthly mine production. (Within the specific context of the mine the candidate works on)

Specific Workplace Knowledge

  • Site specific policies and procedures regarding personal protective equipment and making workplaces safe.
  • Site specific procedures and protocols for entering workplaces
  • Site specific procedures for taking and controlling samples and measurements.
  • Site specific stratigraphy, rock types and minerals ..
  • Protocols and procedures for updating working plans
  • Site specific computer programmes and databases
  • Site specific Mineralisation/ geological models

Section 3: Learning Component Specification

3A. Knowledge Subjects

311701002-KS-1 / Mine Sampling Practice (I)
216502001-KS-2 / Mining Engineering Practice (1) Mining Engineering Practice (1)
311701002-KS-1: Mine Sampling Practice (I)
KS01:01. Processes for the verification of sample analysis data (Intermediate) (Credits: 4) Written, 2
Learning Activity Guidelines:
  1. Explain the generic process for verifying sample analysis data: a. Typical values of mineral deposits found on mines; b. Range of distribution of values over the height of the mineral deposit; c. Difference between uniform, bottom and top mineral distribution./enrichment
2. Explain lateral and vertical value distribution in mineral deposits.
3. Explain and give examples of the relationship between mineral values and related geological features/characteristics.
4. Explain and give examples of potential consequences of sampling deviations:a . Incorrect sampling: b. sampling the incorrect reef; c. Assuming the right reef and not sampling it, d. Lack of verification and checking of sample data; e. Over/under evaluation; f. Influence on mining decisions; g. False ore reserve declarations; h. Life of mine; i Mine call factor
KS01:02. Operating principles of mine sample evaluation systems (Intermediate) (Credits: 4)
Written, 2
Learning Activity Guidelines:
1. Explain and give examples of various sample data capturing systems: a. Electronic systems; b. Manual stoping system; c. Manual development system
2. Demonstrate how to execute the required calculations for the creation of evaluation data. a. Averaging of mineral content of sample sections using various widths; b. Calculating panel and stope average values; c. Progressive values; d. Overall values; e. Stretch values.
3. Explain the purpose of mine evaluation and the role of sampling in it: a. Definition of ore reserve; b. Role of sampling in calculating mine call factor; c. Monthly mineral production calculations; d. Impact of sampling on mine planning, grade control, ore resources and ore flow.
KS01:03. Fundamental principles of the assay process (Basic) (Credits: 1)
Learning Activity Guidelines:
1. Describe the overall process for assaying rock samples; a. Sample preparation for analysis (Crushing, splitting, drying, pulverizing); b. Dry Chemical analysis; c. Wet chemical analysis; d. Smelting of samples/ Fire assay; e. Compressing f. Metal separation and extraction; g. Weighing/grading..
KS01:04. Concepts and principles of tape surveying (Intermediate) (Credits: 3)
Written, 1
Learning Activity Guidelines:
1. Explain by means of example the various techniques of tape surveying and how they are applied. a. Offsetting; b. Ties. c. Crossing of tapes; d. Principles for locating features.
KS01:05. Purpose and principles of sampling (Intermediate) (Credits: 28)
Written, 2
Learning Activity Guidelines:
Explain the definition of sampling; a. Difference between the various types of sampling (chip, broken ore, bulk, trench, tailings dams, outcrop, drains, water sampling, pulp, moisture, stop and go belt sampling)
2. Explain the criteria for a good sample: a. No contamination; b. Taken within a demarcated area; c. Chip to a uniform depth d. Spillage; e. Fraud; f. Salting g. Effective preparation of the area to sample; h. Effective care and labeling of the collected samples; i. All taken samples to be analysed; j. Accurate measurement and recording of sample width at right angles to the plane of the ore body;
3. Explain the principles for collecting representative sample sections: a. Regular sampling intervals; b. irregular sampling intervals; c. Sampling on the correct sampling grid; d. Sampling on the correct time intervals;
4. Identify the various sampling equipment and personal protective equipment required: a. Care and maintenance of equipment and PPE; b. Techniques for the effective use of the equipment and PPE; c. Include manual, battery operated and pneumatic tools and equipment.
5.Describe the fundamentals of sampling a. Defining the sampling problem, b. Relevance of what is being sampled; c. Type of method that is appropriate to the sample to be taken; d. Causality of the sampling; e. The effect of space and time on the sampling; f. underlying fundamentals of bias; g. Underlying fundamentals of representivity; h. Difference between accuracy, precision and measurement resolution; i. Types of sampling required.
KS01:06 Fundamental principles of Survey and sampling statistical (Limited to raw data) and volume calculation, plotting and projections. (Intermediate) (Credits: 4) Written, 2
Learning Activity Guidelines:
1. Describe the meaning and give examples of the following statistical principles: a. Average and log averages b. Mean, median, mode and frequency (raw data); c. Methods of weighted mean. d. Range
2. Identify and apply the formulae: a. Regular and irregular area; b. Volume; c. Density (Relative Density) and tonnage; d. Cut and fill volumes.
3. Apply the principles of plotting and projection of survey stations on plan and section: a. Scale off bearings/directions with a protractor; b. Establish coordinate lines from plotted survey points/stations and bearing/directions of a line; c. Plotting a survey station/point from known coordinates. d. Projection of survey stations/points. (Describe horizontal, vertical and inclined planes, explain a stope sheet, plot and project a survey stations/points onto a reef plane or mineral bed).
4. Explain and describe how to project a survey station/point within a reef plane or mineral bed. a. All methods that can be used.
KS01:07. Principles and concepts of planes (2D and 3D) within a mining environment. (Intermediate) (Credits: 4) Written, 1
Learning Activity Guidelines:
  1. Describe the difference between horizontal, vertical and incline planes a. What the various planes mean; b. Projections between the planes; c. Difference between apparent dips and true dips and strike and how this relates to plans ,maps and sections.d. Relationship between two dimensional and three dimensional planes; e. Difference between true north and magnetic north.
  2. Explain and give examples of the various coordinates and coordinate systems: a. LO systems; b. WGS84; c. Local systems; d. CARTESIAN system - coordinate and direction deviation; e. Difference between the angle of measurement and directions. f. Definition of direction; g. Definition of coordinates; h. Direction and swing when converting from one system to another.
  3. Explain the meaning and application of elevations: a. Origin of mean sea level b. Datum plane; c. Benchmark d. Collar elevation e. Contours
Total Credits: 24
Exemptions
Qualification or Learning programs that can give you exemption for this Module:
Number / Title / Institution / NQF Level
Critical Knowledge Areas:
The areas of knowledge that must be fully understood to be deemed competent
  • Explain and give examples of the relationship between mineral values and related geological features/characteristics.Explain and give examples of potential consequences of a lack of verification and checking of sample data; a. Over/under evaluation; b. Influence on mining decisions; c. False Ore reserve declarations; d. Life of mine; e. Mine call factor
  • Explain the purpose of mine evaluation and the role of sampling in it: a. Definition of ore reserve; and mineral resource, b. Role of sampling in calculating mine call factor; c. Monthly mineral production calculations; d. Impact of sampling on mine planning, grade control, ore resources and ore flow.
  • Explain by means of example the various techniques of tape surveying and how they are applied. a. Offsetting; b. Ties. c. Crossing of tapes; d. Principles for locating features.
  • Explain the criteria for a good sample: a. No contamination; b. Taken within a demarcated area; c. Chip to a uniform depth d. Spillage; e. Fraud; f. Salting g. Effective preparation of the area to sample; h. Effective care and labeling of the collected samples; i. All taken samples to be analysed; j. Accurate measurement and recording of sample width at right angles to the plane of the ore body;
  • Explain the principles for collecting a representative sample sections: a. Regular sampling intervals; b. irregular sampling intervals; c. Sampling on the correct sampling grid; d. Sampling on the correct time intervals;
  • 1. Describe the meaning and give examples of the following statistical principles: a. Average, b. Mean, median, mode and frequency (raw data); c. Methods of weighted mean. d. Range
  • 2. Identify and apply the formulae: a. Regular and irregular area; b. Volume; c. Density (Relative Density) and tonnage; d. Cut and fill volumes.
  • 3. Apply the principles of plotting and projection of survey stations on plan and section: a. Scale off bearings/directions with a protractor; b. Establish coordinate lines from plotted survey points/stations and bearing/directions of a line; c. Plotting a survey station/point from known coordinates. d. Projection of survey stations/points. (Describe horizontal, vertical and inclined planes, explain a stope sheet, plot and project a survey stations/points onto a reef plane or mineral bed.
  • 4. Explain and describe how to project a survey station/point within a reef plane or mineral bed. a. All methods that can be used.