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Refrigeration Mechanic
Industrial refrigeration mechanics install, repair and maintain the air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment used in a wide range of applications. This involves reading and understanding mechanical, electrical and architectural drawings and the use of hand and workshop tools, brazing and soldering equipment and measuring instruments.

Refrigeration mechanics install units, make the necessary electrical connections and also undertake the maintenance and repair of the units. A good knowledge of electrical principles is essential as these mechanics must be able to trace a fault and make repairs and adjustments, which may be electrical or mechanical.

Satisfying Aspects
- non-routine nature of the work
- challenge each job presents
- varied employment possibilities
- good remuneration

Demanding aspects
- some element of danger in the work
- dirty working conditions sometimes prevail
- having to work shifts or overtime or be away from home for periods of time

Requirements
A refrigeration mechanic should:
- be at least 16 years old;
- have mechanical aptitude;
- be able to think logically;
- enjoy working with his hands;
- be able to liaise well with clients;
- have mathematical aptitude;
- be able to pay attention to detail;
- be interested in problem-solving;
- be accurate and work carefully;
- be able to work without direct supervision.

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

Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Mathematics, Engineering and Graphic Design, 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.

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
- Air conditioning and refrigeration contracting companies
- Wholesalers and manufacturers
- Large industrial plants
- Public service sections
- Carbonated soft-drink Industry
- 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