The Institute for Timber Construction South Africa (ITC-SA) receives several inquiries from people who want to become Certified Roof Erectors each month.
Erik Söderlund, the General Manager of the ITC-SA, says he is pleased because it indicates that South Africa’s builders are increasingly aware of the need to comply with SANS 10400, the Code of Practice for the Application of the National Building Regulations (NBR).
“Roof failure is a serious matter and can lead to the loss of life and damage to property. In our experience, incorrectly erected roof structures cause most roof failures,” says Söderlund.
Söderlund explains that the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) recognises the ITC-SA as the Professional Body representing the Engineered timber roof truss industry. One of the tasks of the ITC-SA is to assist unaccredited and new roof erectors to become part of the regulated sector for the benefit of all stakeholders.
“The ITC-SA facilitates a regulated environment where the quality of the training and the competence of roof erectors are confirmed which protects the consumer. The bottom line is that regional and municipal building regulators and contractors should not award work to a roof erector that the ITC-SA has not designated as a Certified Roof Erector,” emphasises Söderlund.
When the ITC-SA confers the Professional Designation of Certified Roof Erector to individuals who meet the requirements, SAQA records it on the National Learner Records Database (NLRD). The database is updated annually and includes the Professional Designations of all Professional Bodies (approximately 98) in South Africa.
Söderlund says in the case of a roof erector applying for the Designation, the ITC-SA evaluates the following criteria:
- The applicant must have a SAQA-recognised qualification in carpentry. If there is no formal qualification, the ITC-SA’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Assessment Policy is applied to determine if the candidate has acquired equivalent knowledge and skills through experience.
- At least 12 months of relevant experience in the erection of the roof category for which the erector is applying.
- The probationary applicant is expected to work under the supervision and mentorship of a qualified and ITC-SA Certified Roof Inspector while erecting a minimum of five roofs. The fifth or final roof is formally audited at a fee.
The successful candidate receives the Professional Designation of Certified Roof Erector for the appropriate roofing category.
