Industry Progress – SAMBRA continues to engage with industry stakeholders on qualifications related to electric vehicle repair.
A significant milestone has been achieved following industry submissions. Previously, entry requirements for the qualification were limited to electricians or motor mechanics.
Following strong representation from the industry, particularly the Eastern Cape SAMBRA group, panel beaters have now been included as eligible candidates.
The submission highlighted that panel beaters function as generalist technicians, working across structural, mechanical and electronic vehicle systems, making them a natural fit for EV repair training pathways.
Lift testing standards under review
Members have raised growing concerns about the cost and frequency of workshop lift load testing.
Current SABS standards (SANS 71/1035) require:
• Servicing every six months
• Load testing every 12 months
While regular servicing is widely accepted, annual load testing can cost up to R15 000 and in some cases may even damage older lifts.
SAMBRA believes a risk-based approach would be more appropriate.
Under the proposed approach:
• Six-monthly servicing would continue
• Service technicians would assess lift safety
• Load testing could be conducted every three years where appropriate
Discussions on the matter are ongoing.
