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Domestic Appliance Mechanician
Domestic appliance mechanicians test appliances and locate faults with the aid of various diagnostic techniques, testing equipment and specialized tools. Readings from these instruments are interpreted and evaluated to diagnose the problem. Appliances can vary from kettles to microwave ovens and can include toasters, vacuum cleaners, freezers and stoves.

After repairing appliances, mechanicians test them to see if they are in proper working order. They listen for excessive vibrations and make sure that appliances do not overheat, for example. In the case of automatic machines with programmes, they let the machine run through a programme to make sure it is in good working order.

They must adhere to basic safety measures in order to ensure that it works safely and that a high standard of service is obtained from the appliance. Domestic appliance mechanicians sometimes manufacture their own components or attachments, using sketches and diagrams of electrical circuits and mechanical components.

Satisfying Aspects
- working with your hands
- variety of work tasks and locations
- working with people
- the opportunity to specialize

Demanding aspects
- working long hours or overtime
- trying to satisfy difficult customers
- the possibility of accidents or injuries on the job

Requirements
A domestic appliance mechanician should:
- be at least 16 years old;
- enjoy working with his hands and handling tools;
- be patient and courteous;
- be responsible and careful;
- be a neat and conscientious worker;
- have mechanical aptitude;
- have manual dexterity and good eye-hand coordination;
- have mechanical and technical skill;
- enjoy working with the public.

School Subjects
Grade 9 Certificate.
Some employers prefer higher qualifications.

Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Mechanical Technology

Training
There are three ways to qualify as a registered artisan:

1. An apprenticeship is a 4-year contract between company and apprentice, comprising a 12-week theoretical training, which includes 4 subjects at national exam level.

2. A learnership is a structured learning programme that leads to a qualification in a certain field. The learnership programme includes a theoretical and a practical component. It usually takes about a year to complete. The training takes place on-site (on the premises of the organisation). This has the advantage that the learner gets on-the-job experience whilst training.

3. FET colleges offer theoretical training to prospective artisans via the new National Certificate Vocational (NCV). During this 3-year programme (levels 2 to 4), learners complete a school-leaving certificate (this NCV) similar to the
new National Senior Certificate (NSC) in schools. They are also exposed to a practical workshop component.

All learners are required to complete a practical internship under the supervision of an experienced artisan. As an alternative to doing the full qualification, a learner can apply to do a skills programme at a FET College. Skills programmes are short practical hands-on courses.

For more information about qualifications and skills programmes, contact your nearest FET College. FET Colleges are accredited and funded by a SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) such as MERSETA or CHIETA. They also receive bursary funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the NCV programme.

All learners are required to complete a practical internship under the supervision of an experienced artisan. As an alternative to doing the full qualification, a learner can apply to do a skills programme at a FET College. Skills programmes are short practical hands-on courses.

For more information about qualifications and skills programmes, contact your nearest FET College. FET Colleges are accredited and funded by a SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) such as MERSETA or CHIETA. They also receive bursary funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the NCV programme.

Learners must all receive training in occupational safety and first aid, fire-fighting and preventative security measures. Learners study everything about the installation, maintenance and repair of all electrical equipment. They must also become familiar with municipal legislation relevant to electricity supply and consumption.

Employer
- Engineering factories
- Repairing companies
- Large manufacturing concerns
- Self-employment, with enough experience and capital, can start own business

Contact
The Steel & Engineering Industries Federation
of South Africa (SEIFSA)
P O Box 1338
Johannesburg, 2000
Tel: (011) 298-9400 Fax: (011) 298-9500

www.seifsa.co.za