ECSA’s revised CPD regulations: What engineers and industry professionals need to know

In April, the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) will implement updated Continuing Professional Development (CPD) regulations, which were officially published in the Government Gazette at the end of 2024. These updates are crucial for professionals in the engineering sector. Industry stakeholders are strongly advised to familiarise themselves with the changes. Lifting Africa finds out more.

The updated CPD regulations are designed to enhance the ongoing development of professionals in the various engineering disciplines, including the lifting sector. According to Lynnette Greenwood Harris , CEO of the LMI Academy, the revised regulations will have a significant impact on the compliance process, registration renewals and the overall

approach to professional development.

“It is essential for all registered engineers and relevant practitioners in the lifting sector to stay informed and ensure they meet the new requirements to maintain their credentials and stay aligned with current industry standards,” she says. “It is aimed at fostering a culture of lifelong learning ensuring that industry practitioners remain at the forefront of industry developments.”

The revisions reflect a stronger emphasis on participation in industry events, self-study and mentorship, with clear criteria set for earning CPD points over a five-year cycle. As these regulations evolve, they aim to provide a more structured framework for professionals to remain competent and adaptable in an ever-changing industry landscape.

According to Greenwood Harris, the revised rules will impact any person who is applying for registration, re-registration or renewal of registration with ECSA. It also applies to institutions, organisations and societies. Under the new rules, all registered professionals, including engineers, technologists, lifting machine inspectors and technicians, must accumulate a minimum of 25 CPD credits over a five-year cycle to renew their registration.

These credits must be obtained in at least two of three CPD activity categories, and professionals must earn at least five credits from validated educational or developmental activities (Category 1a). According to Greenwood Harris , credits can also be earned through self-study work-based activities and contributions to engineering communities of practice. She notes that it is important for industry to know that they are expected to record their CPD activities annually on the ECSA portal, with final submissions at least 30 days before the cycle ends.

ECSA will do random audits to ensure compliance, assessing the validity of submitted CPD credits and supporting documentation. “CPD is a critical aspect of professional registration, as it ensures ongoing learning and adaptation to changes in the industry,” said Greenwood Harris. The changes have been designed to streamline compliance while encouraging participation in developmental and educational activities. CPD is essential for renewing your registration. Without fulfilling the CPD requirements, your license to practice could be at risk. Non-compliance can also result in de-registration.”

Breaking down the categories

The revised CPD system categorises activities into three primary areas, each with specific point requirements over the five-year period:

Category 1 (Developmental Activities):

• 1a: Attending industry events, training sessions and seminars is mandatory. These activities must be formally registered with a voluntary association or accredited provider. Participants earn 1 point for every 10 hours of learning, with 5 points required in 5 years and requires to provide proof.

• 1b: Self-study activities such as reading or online learning are now credited, with participants needing to provide proof, such as certificates of attendance. Five points are also required in this subcategory. This is a new sector in its entirety.

Category 2 (Work-Based Activities):

• 2a: Participants earn 1 point for every 300 hours of work, with a maximum of 10 points claimable over 5 years.

• 2b: Mentoring contributes 1 point for every 50 hours of mentoring annually, encouraging knowledge sharing within the industry.

Category 3 (Individual Activities):

• 3a: Membership in ECSA-recognised voluntary associations earns 1 point per year, with 5 points and requires to provide proof.

• 3b: This newly expanded category includes research, course evaluation and development, and learning facilitation. Participants must prove their involvement in these validated CPD activities. Greenwood Harris notes that the updates emphasise education and participation.

“Some may find these requirements intimidating, but they provide clear guidelines and encourage a well-rounded approach to professional growth,” she says. These changes make it easier to stay current with developments in your field, which is vital in a rapidly evolving industry.”

Impact on LMIs

For lifting machinery inspectors, the changes represent an opportunity to engage more actively with their profession. By participating in structured events, mentoring, and research, LMIs can contribute to the broader industry while meeting their CPD obligations. According to Greenwood Harris , those registered with international bodies that have reciprocal agreements with ECSA may comply with either ECSA’s CPD rules or those of the international body.

In such cases, compliance with the international body’s requirements will suffice for ECSA registration renewal. “However, they must annually declare compliance and submit relevant documentation to ECSA. Exemptions are also available for professionals facing extenuating circumstances, such as unemployment or health issues.” She says all registered persons must apply for exemptions annually and supporting relevant documentation will be required to be excused from full CPD compliance.

Greenwood Harris emphasises the importance of complying with CPD requirements. “Each individual is responsible for their professional development,” she says. “Don’t become complacent. CPD is not just a requirement; it’s an opportunity to grow and contribute to the knowledge base of the industry.”

LMI Academy,

+27 (0) 11 475 5876,

info@lmi-academy.co.za,

www.lmi-academy.co.za