SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Install and maintain fertigation systems 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
335934  Install and maintain fertigation systems 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Ornamental Horticulture and Landscape 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation Horticulture 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
A person credited with this unit standard will be able to:
  • Fit an atmospheric backflow preventor to a portable water supply.
  • Assemble and install a venturi fertigation system.
  • Fit a fertigator in an irrigation mainline.
  • Install and adjust a hydraulic dosing pump for an irrigation system.
  • Install a fertigation tank and metering pump in an irrigation pump station.
  • Service and maintain various fertigation systems. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners are competent in Communication and Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 2. 

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    N/A 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Show an awareness of the potential health and safety hazards in fertigation systems and the safety precautions that must be applied. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    The range includes but is not limited to:
  • Personal protective clothing and equipment, potential health risks of backflow or siphoning, possible methods of contamination, no taps on fertigation lines, electrical safety procedures, yellow tanks, warning signage. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The personal protective clothing and equipment that should be worn when installing and maintaining fertigation systems are identified and the use of each of these is described with regard to the protection that these items afford. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The potential dangers that the backflow or siphoning from a fertigation system can pose are explained with reference to the effects that the chemicals may have on the health of humans and animals. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The ways in which backflow from a fertigation system can contaminate a municipal or borehole water supply are described in terms of the types of connections that rely on a single acting valve to isolate the flow. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The reasons why no taps or easily accessible outlets for drinking are permitted on the downstream piping from a fertigation system are explained with regard to the potential health hazards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The electrical safety procedures that must be followed whenever working on fertigation pumps and their control equipment are described in accordance with the Electrical Wiring Codes and the company's SOPs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The necessity of using a yellow polyethylene tank for storage and use of the fertigation solution is explained in terms of the universal safety recognition that this provides. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The importance of erecting warning signage at the storage tank and fertigation dispensing area is explained in terms of preventing a safety incident. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Install a dual acting backflow preventor in a potable pipeline. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    The range includes but is not limited to:
  • Reasons why a non return valve is not acceptable, SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), double chamber hydraulic backflow preventor, atmospheric backflow preventor, location and minimum 1 meter above ground level, isolation valves. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The reasons why a non return valve cannot ensure a positive barrier to backflow in a reticulation is explained with regards to the typical sealing and closure failings that these valves exhibit. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The method by which a double chamber hydraulic backflow preventor operates is described and the techniques for installing this unit are demonstrated in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines and the company's SOPs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The situations in which a double chamber hydraulic backflow preventor is required are described with reference to the size of the area served and the anticipated flow rates. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The protection that an atmospheric backflow preventor provides is explained with regard to its particular method of operation and positive isolation of the fertigation solution. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The prerequisites for the installation of an atmospheric backflow preventor are described in terms of its location relative to the fertigation system and minimum height above ground level. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The necessity of fitting an isolation valve on both the upstream and downstream connections of a backflow preventor are explained with respect to facilitating ease of maintenance and trouble shooting. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Install a venturi fertigation system to an irrigation mainline. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    The range includes but is not limited to:
  • Venturi operation, limiting factors-high internal friction, only operates at specific velocities.
  • Flow regulating manifold, install tank above venturi, spring loaded non return valve. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The operating principles of a venturi are explained with regard to the downstream suction conditions that are created and the usage of this suction for fertigation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The factors that restrict the use of venturi fertigation are described in terms of its high friction characteristics and limited operable flow rates. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The reasons why a venturi must be installed in a flow regulating manifold are explained with regard to the adjustments that must be made to calibrate the suction rate. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The methods of constructing and installing the venturi with its integral flow regulating manifold are demonstrated in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations and the company's SOPs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The reasons for installing a fertigation tank above the venturi manifold are explained with regards to the prevention of air entrapment and priming problems. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The reasons why a spring loaded non return valve must be fitted to the fertigation suction line are explained with reference to the pressure that will be applied to this line in a hydrostatic condition. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Install a fertigator in an irrigation mainline. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    The range includes but is not limited to:
  • Operation of a fertigator, proportional dosing, limited storage capacity, dilution of the fertigation solution at the end of a cycle, need for isolation valves, protection from freezing, installation procedures. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The operating principles of a fertigator are described with regard to the pressure differential created between its inlet and outlet and the resultant positive pressure that is applied to the fertigation solution. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The factors that restrict the use of a fertigator are described in terms of the limited storage capacity and inconsistent dosing at the end of a fertigation cycle. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The reasons why a fertigator must be equipped with an isolation valve on both the inlet and outlet connections are explained with regard to the need to drain and refill its container. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The necessity of positioning a fertigator in a sheltered and protected position in areas that receive frost is explained in terms of the damage that can occur if the unit is frozen. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The methods of installing the fertigator are demonstrated in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations and the company's SOPs. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Install a hydraulic dosing pump in an irrigation mainline. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    The range includes but is not limited to:
  • Operation of opposing pistons, filter water to the dosing unit, position tank above the dosing pump, adjustment of dosing ratios, calibration of a setting. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The method by which a hydraulic dosing pump injects the fertigation solution into the irrigation water is described in terms of the proportional relationship that the upper piston has with lower opposing piston. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The necessity of installing a filter on the mainline feed to a hydraulic dosing pump is explained with regard to preventing dirt and debris from entering the pumping chamber. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The methods of installing the dosing pump are demonstrated in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations and the company's SOPs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The reasons why a fertigation tank should be positioned above the dosing pump are explained with regard to preventing air entrapment and priming problems. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The techniques for adjusting the dosing ratio on a hydraulic dosing pump are demonstrated in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations and the company's SOPs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The reasons for calibrating the dosing rate are explained in terms of verifying the accuracy of the unit and the methods of achieving this are demonstrated in accordance with the company's SOPs. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Install a metering pump in an irrigation pump station. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    The range includes but is not limited to:
  • Benefits of metering pumps, auto sensory controls-speed control, flooded suction, low level protection-float switch, low voltage-24volts, use only non ferrous materials, corrosion. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The benefits of using a metering pump for fertigation are described in terms of the lack of friction and the precise dosing rates that may be selected. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The manner in which a metering pump achieves its proportional dosing is described in terms of the speed control that is governed by the auto sensory controls. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The necessity of positioning the tank to provide a flooded suction is explained with regard to ensuring a positive prime for the metering pump. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The role that a float switch plays in protecting the pump is described in terms of the low level cut-out of the pump when the fertigation solution drops to a critical level. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The reasons why the float switch must only operate at 24-volts or lower are explained in context of adhering to safety practices and preventing possible electrocution. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The methods of installing the metering pump and the flow sensor are demonstrated in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations and the company's SOPs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The reasons why only non-ferrous valves, fittings and interconnecting piping may be used on the fertigation system are explained with regard to the corrosive nature of fertilisers. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 7 
    Service and maintain fertigation systems. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    The range includes but is not limited to:
  • Testing the dosing ratio of a venturi, servicing a fertigator, servicing a hydraulic dosing pump, calibrate the dosing ratio of a hydraulic dosing pump, preventative schedule for a metering pump, fertigation tank filter. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The methods of testing and verifying the dosing ratio of a venturi manifold are demonstrated in accordance with the company's SOPs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The methods of stripping, inspecting and replacing the serviceable components of a fertigator are demonstrated in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines and the company's SOPs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The components on a hydraulic dosing pump that require checking and renewal in a preventative maintenance inspection are listed and the frequency at which this maintenance should take place is described in keeping with the manufacturer's recommendations and the company's SOPs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The methods of calibrating and verifying the dosing ratio of a hydraulic dosing pump are demonstrated in accordance with the company's SOPs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The components on a metering pump and its auto sensory controls that require regular inspection, lubrication and servicing in a preventative maintenance inspection are listed and the frequency at which this maintenance should take place is described in keeping with the manufacturer's recommendations and the company's SOPs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The procedures for stripping, cleaning and replacing the filter on a fertigation tank are demonstrated in accordance with the company's SOPs. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard must be accredited as a provider through the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines in the relevant qualification and the agreed ETQA procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    The learner is able to identify and solve problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made by:
  • Ensuring that all safety procedures are adhered to when working with the fertigation chemicals. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    The learner is able to work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or communities by:
  • Participating with others in the installation of a fertigation system. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    The learner is able to organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively by:
  • Following the schedule of inspections and tasks when conducting preventative maintenance on fertigation systems. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    The learner is able to collect, organise and critically evaluate information by:
  • Gauging the amount of fertigation solution that is required to apply one cycle with a fertigator. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    The learner is able to communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation by:
  • Compiling a list of the materials and labour that were used in the servicing of a fertigation system. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    The learner is able to use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others by:
  • Utilising knowledge of calibration to set the rate of injection on a hydraulic dosing pump. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    The Learner:
  • Is expected to perform the specific outcomes reflected in this unit standard without direct supervision.
  • Should have access to work site procedures.
  • Should demonstrate an application of ethics and values.
  • Must apply basic principles of general safety and customer care.
  • Should demonstrate an awareness of the expectations and obligations of basic employee/employer relations including industrial relations principles.

    At this level the communication/reporting of issues arising in the workplace, is embedded in the specific outcomes and the related assessment criteria.

    It is understood that, due to the nature of the work environment and the skills level of the Learner, that the aspects of teamwork form an integral part of the necessary specific outcomes and related assessment criteria.

    The points included under the notes, should be included when the qualifying learners are being assessed. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  73109   National Certificate: Landscape Irrigation  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  AgriSETA 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.