If you’ve ever browsed safety training options and seen phrases like “Unit Standard 120496” or “SAQA-aligned training,” you might have wondered what exactly that means—and whether it’s important.
Spoiler alert: it is.
Whether you're a safety officer, HR manager, or business owner, understanding unit standards can help you make better training decisions, stay legally compliant, and boost your team’s competence on site.
What Is a Unit Standard?
A unit standard is an official, registered component of a South African qualification. Each one defines the learning outcomes, assessment criteria, and required competencies for a specific skill—like First Aid, Working at Heights, or Risk Assessment.
They are developed by professional bodies and registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) through SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority).
In short:
📚 A unit standard ensures that everyone trained under it is held to the same standard of knowledge and performance—no shortcuts.
Why Do Unit Standards Matter?
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✅ They’re Recognised by Law
Many industries, especially construction, require training to be aligned with specific unit standards to meet compliance regulations (like the OHS Act or Construction Regulations). -
🧾 They Provide Proof of Competence
If your team is audited or inspected, certificates with unit standard numbers show that the learner was trained in accordance with national guidelines. -
🎯 They Ensure Quality and Consistency
Unit standards ensure that your team learns practical, job-relevant skills—not just theory. They cover what a learner must know and be able to do to perform safely.
How Do I Know if a Course Is Unit Standard-Aligned?
Look for the unit standard number in the course title or description. For example:
- First Aid Level 1 – Unit Standard 119567
- Working at Heights – Unit Standard 229998
- SHE Representative – Unit Standard 259622
- Incident Investigation – Unit Standard 120335
Legitimate providers will mention this, and certificates will reflect it. If not—ask!
Who Oversees These Standards?
- SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority): Oversees the registration of unit standards on the NQF.
- QCTO (Quality Council for Trades and Occupations): Manages accreditation of training providers.
- SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority): Funds and supports training initiatives by sector.
FTS Safety ensures that all our public and onsite courses align with the correct unit standards—and we can help guide you through which ones apply to your industry and risks.
How Do I Choose the Right Unit Standards for My Team?
Ask yourself:
- What tasks do they perform daily?
- Are there legal requirements (e.g., scaffolding work, confined spaces)?
- Have you had any recent incidents that indicate a skills gap?
- What does your safety file or site require in terms of appointments and competence?
We can also help with training needs analysis to make sure your team gets exactly what they need—no guesswork.
Choose Smart. Stay Compliant. Train with Confidence.
Unit standards aren’t just academic jargon—they’re the foundation of safe, legal, and effective training in South Africa.
At FTS Safety, we offer accredited, unit standard-aligned training in key safety topics across all major cities and onsite at your premises.
📩 Need guidance on the right training for your team?
Email us at [email protected] or call 031 569 1556 and speak to a training advisor.