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Associations
The SARACCA / SAQCC Gas stand at the Big 5 Construct show at Gallagher ’ s Estate .
ONGOING INITIATIVES AND FUTURE PLANS Much of the feedback SARACCA receives primarily focuses on training . “ Companies want to see more training providers and
for us to look at the cost of training and how we can make it more accessible ,” he notes . SARACCA plans to address these concerns by driving improvements in the training sector . There are issues with the timely renewal of SAQCC Gas registration , which sometimes results in contractors working illegally due to lapsed training .
SARACCA emphasises that the safe handling of refrigerants should be a standardised qualification across all training centres in the country .
To this end , SARACCA ’ s national executive committee visited OTTC ( Open Trade Training Centre ) to explore how SARACCA could support the training centre . " We went there to get them registered and get them to use our safe handling courses ," he explains . " They have well developed courses which are up to standard , but we want the safe handling course to be uniform at all training centres ."
“ We try to help and support all our training centres . There is a standard to be followed , and we as the association set those standards ,” Botha emphasises .
SARACCA and SAQCC Gas will develop a marketing drive within the next three months to improve registrations under SAQCC Gas and attract more companies to join SARACCA . Despite an economically challenging environment – before , during and after the election - Botha expresses optimism about the future . “ In South Africa , business was under pressure , but with the recent election and everyone getting back to their offices , there ’ s more confidence in the country . It will be good if we can just get the wheels turning and keep them turning so that we can grow the industry and help grow the country ,” he remarks .
“ I know that we ' re taking small steps forward , but at least we ' re moving forward ," he says . Botha anticipates that the industry will increasingly demand certification for installations , which SARACCA is working to support through awareness and training initiatives .
Botha highlights the importance of training and skills development for both new entrants and experienced professionals . " We would love to spend more time at the training centres , creating awareness , and also assessing the skills levels of the graduates , as well as those who have been in the industry for many years ," he says .
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RACA Journal I September 2024
In the coming months , SARACCA plans to focus on CO 2 refrigerants and natural refrigerants , " so that more of these systems can be used in South Africa ". This initiative aims to enhance training and promote the use of environmentally friendly refrigerants in the country .
In summary , SARACCA remains committed to ensuring compliance , supporting training centres , and addressing industry trends and challenges . Botha ' s proactive approach and dedication to continuous improvement reflect SARACCA ' s mission to support and advance the HVAC industry in South Africa . RACA
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