VerifiedA Government Certificate of Competency (GCC) is a statutory certificate for engineers who take legal responsibility for machinery. It is required for certain appointments under the Occupational Health and Safety Act in factories and under mine health and safety law in mines. There are two kinds, issued by two different government departments.
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The two types of GCC
| GCC Factories | GCC Mines | |
|---|---|---|
| Who issues it | Department of Employment and Labour (Chief Inspector) | Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Mine Health and Safety Inspectorate |
| Where it applies | Factories and other workplaces under the Occupational Health and Safety Act | Mines and works under the Mine Health and Safety Act |
| Disciplines | Mechanical or electrical | Mechanical or electrical |
There is no “GCC Marine”. Engineers on ships need certificates of competency issued by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), which is a separate system.
Who can write the GCC Factories examinations
You may only write once the Commission of Examiners has approved your application. Approval depends on your engineering qualification and on relevant, verifiable practical experience with machinery, some of which must be in a factory environment. Applicants typically hold an engineering degree or diploma, or a National N Diploma or N6 in a mechanical or electrical field together with a trade and workplace experience. Because the rules are detailed and applied case by case, check the current requirements with the Department before you apply.
The application process
- Get the current application forms from the Department of Employment and Labour.
- Attach certified copies of your ID, qualifications and academic records.
- Attach detailed letters from employers describing your practical experience with machinery.
- Submit the application and wait for the Commission of Examiners’ decision.
- If approved, register for the examinations, which are written in two sittings a year.
- After passing, apply for the certificate to be issued.
Preparing through a TVET qualification
- The National N Diploma (N4 to N6 plus workplace experience) is one of the recognised qualification routes. See what N6 is equivalent to.
- Keep detailed records of your practical work: employer letters are central to the application.
- NATED N4 to N6 programmes are being phased out, so if you are relying on an N Diploma, complete all requirements by 30 June 2029.
Frequently asked questions
Who issues the GCC in South Africa?
The Department of Employment and Labour issues GCC Factories certificates, and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources issues GCC Mines certificates.
Can I write the GCC with an N6?
An N6 or National N Diploma in a mechanical or electrical field can form part of an approved route, together with a trade and relevant experience. The Commission of Examiners decides each application.
How often are GCC examinations written?
GCC Factories examinations are written in two sittings a year. Check the Department’s current schedule before applying.
