Lift mechanics are involved with the construction, erection, assembly, testing and maintenance of lifts, escalators and hoists, in accordance with regulations as decreed by legislation.
Lift mechanics work as part of the crew that install and repair elevators, escalators and similar equipment. When installing a new elevator, the shaft is constructed and prepared for use. The electrical wiring and controls are connected up. The elevator car is then assembled and installed, together with the hoist that winds and unwinds the lift cable. When the lifting equipment is operational mechanics check, adjust and recheck it to be sure it is working properly and safely.
After the installation of the lifting equipment, lift mechanics have to maintain and carry out repairs when necessary. They may also replace old equipment with newer models in accordance with the requirements as prescribed by law.
Lift mechanics work indoors in buildings under construction and in existing buildings completed. They are required to travel extensively to test the lifts in the area for which they are responsible. The working conditions are rather unfavourable in that dust, oil and grease are part and parcel of the job.
Satisfying Aspects
- working with one's hands
- working as part of a team
- working at different sites
Demanding aspects
- having to lift and carry heavy equipment, parts and machinery
- working in awkward or cramped positions
- the possibility of injury or accidents on the job
- working in unfavourable conditions where dust, oil and grease are present
Requirements
A lift mechanic should:
- be at least 16 years old;
- be thorough and responsible;
- have a good knowledge of electronics and electricity;
- enjoy working with your hands and using hand-tools;
- have technical and practical aptitude;
- have mechanical ability;
- be in good health and have stamina.
School Subjects
Grade 9 Certificate.
Some employers prefer higher qualifications.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Languages, 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. After completion, the NCV learners are required to complete a practical internship under the supervision of an experienced artisan, with a company that instals lifts.
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
- elevator manufacturing companies
- contractors who specialize in the maintenance and repair of lifts and escalators
- government departments
- business firms
- self-employment, with enough experience and capital, can start own business.
Contact
The Training Officer
Schindler Lifts Ltd
P O Box 3615
Johannesburg, 2000
The Personnel Officer
Otis Elevator Company Ltd
Private Bag X100
Braamfontein, 2017
Head of Training
Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of South Africa
P O Box 1338
Johannesburg, 2000
Tel. (011) 833-6033