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SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Occupational Certificate: Plastics Manufacturing Machine Setter 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
93598  Occupational Certificate: Plastics Manufacturing Machine Setter 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - MERSETA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
QCTO - Quality Council for Trades and Occupations  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  432  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification is replaced by: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
110308  Occupational Certificate: Plastics Manufacturing Machine Setter  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  553  Complete 
118104  Occupational Certificate: Plastics Manufacturing Machine Setter  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  553  Will occur as soon as [NEW] is registered 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to manufacture plastic products by enabling the learner to plan, prepare, set-up and maintain optimum machine outputs in various types of volume manufacturing processes.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Remove and install mould, die and forming device and auxiliary equipment according to procedure.
  • Manufacture plastic products.
  • Conduct operational maintenance and coordinate major maintenance on machines, equipment and tools in accordance to the specifications.
  • Conduct trials on new mould, die and forming device and materials to determine process parameters.

    Rationale:
    This qualification is envisaged to provide learners with a foundation for further learning to be able to supervise a production line/environment. The plastics manufacturing industry is characterised by sophisticated manufacturing processes operating in a competitive and challenging environment. The manufactured products have to respond to a wide variety of exacting customer and consumer requirements. In addition, the industry has to respond to competition from imports, export markets, on-going development of new products as the result of changing customer needs, and environmental issues.

    This means that people working in the industry require a range of skills and knowledge to help them respond to the quality requirements and on-going change.
    This is the first qualification in a career path involving plastic manufacturing processes. The qualification reflects the skills, knowledge and understanding required to participate effectively in the plastic manufacturing industry, whether in micro, small, medium or large operations. This qualification will enable growth of the sector which will impact positively on society and the economy at large.

    For those who have been in the workplace for a long time, this qualification can be used in the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL); a process to assess and recognise workplace skills acquired without the benefit of formal education or training.

    For the new entrant or for someone from another field, this qualification provides the learning outcomes (the skills, knowledge and values credits), required to effectively participate in a structured workplace.

    This qualification recognises the skills, knowledge and values acquired by learners to initiate and maintain plastics manufacturing processes by:
  • Setting-up manufacturing equipment and processes to manufacture quality products.
  • Solving common problems to produce quality products to meet customer needs.
  • Interacting with others to achieve manufacturing objectives.

    This qualification also will provide learners with a foundation to be able to supervise a production line/environment. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):

    RPL for access to the integrated assessment:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Prior learning must be acknowledged by a statement of results.

    RPL for entry requirements to access the qualification:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
  • NQF Level 1 with Mathematics and Science. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill Modules:

    Knowledge Modules:653311001-KM-01: Physical science, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • Applied mathematics, NQF Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • Plastic material science, NQF Level 2,7 Credits.
  • Plastic material science, NQF Level 3, 12 Credits.
  • Hand tools, measuring, lifting and stacking equipment, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • Basic principles of engineering, NQF Level 3, 12 Credits.
  • Plastic technology, NQF Level 2, 14 Credits.
  • Plastic technology (moulds, dies and forming devices, NQF Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • Plastic technology (processes), NQF Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • Plastic technology, NQF Level 4, 9 Credits.
  • Quality in the manufacturing process, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • Health and safety within a manufacturing context, NQF Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • Monitor and maintain plastics production process, NQF Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • Monitor and maintain plastics production process, NQF Level 4, 6 Credits.Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 112 Credits.

    Practical Skill Modules:653311001-PM-01: Handle, transport and care for mould, die and forming device, NQF Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • Lift, move and assist to install mould, die and forming device and auxiliary equipment, NQF Level 2, 9 Credits.
  • Install and remove mould, die and forming device and auxiliary equipment, NQF Level 2, 18 Credits.
  • Install and remove mould, die and forming device and auxiliary equipment, NQF Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • Handle, store and recycle material, NQF Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • Start-up and shut-down machine and auxiliary equipment, NQF Level 3, 45 Credits.
  • Set-up, programme and shut-down machine and auxiliary equipment, NQF Level 4, 24 Credits.
  • Monitor manufacturing processes to optimise production output, NQF Level 4, 8 Credits.
  • Perform routine checks and maintenance on plastics processing equipment, NQF Level 3, 14 Credits.
  • Coordinate maintenance on machines, equipment and tools, NQF level 4, 12 Credits.
  • Conduct trials on new mould, die and forming device and materials, NQF Level 4,18 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 158 Credits.

    This qualification also requires the following compulsory Work Experience Modules:
  • Mould or die or forming device installation and removal processes, NQF Level 4, 48 Credits.
  • Machine and auxiliary equipment set-up, start-up and shut-down processes, NQF Level 4, 50 Credits.
  • Routine maintenance on various plastics manufacturing machines and auxiliary equipment, NQF Level 4, 16 Credits.
  • Mould or die or forming device and material trial processes, NQF Level 4, 32 Credits.
  • Plastics manufacturing processes, NQF Level 4, 16 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 162 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Plan and prepare for manufacturing process.
    2. Plan and prepare raw materials for manufacture.
    3. Install mould, die or forming device safely.
    4. Safely set-up, programme, start-up, optimise and shut-down the machine and auxiliary equipment.
    5. Remove mould, die or forming device safely.
    6. Conduct operational maintenance on machines and auxiliary equipment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated assessment criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Correct Personal Protective equipment (PPE Credits) is worn.
  • Documentation is obtained, read and understood.
  • Hand tools and measuring equipment are selected and work area is prepared.

    Associated assessment criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Materials and additives are identified according to production requirements.
  • Materials are prepared according to specifications.
  • Materials are blended according to the recipe.
  • Blending equipment is cleaned after use.
  • Blended materials are loaded into the hopper.

    Associated assessment criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • The correct mould, die or forming device is identified according to the relevant documentation.
  • Mould, die or forming device is inspected, safely handled and transported to machine.
  • Mould, die or forming device is lifted and secured to the machine.

    Associated assessment criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Pre-start up checks are performed and all safety devices are tested.
  • Machine and auxiliary equipment is safely set-up according to material and mould, die and forming device specifications to establish baseline parameters.
  • Machine and auxiliary equipment is started-up.
  • Manufacturing process is monitored and the quality of the plastic product is inspected and tested to achieve optimum parameters.
  • Optimised process parameters are recorded on a setting sheet.
  • Machine and auxiliary equipment is shut-down.
  • Machine barrel is purged and emptied.
  • Unused raw materials are bagged, weighed, labelled and returned to storage area.
  • Housekeeping is performed on the machine and work area.

    Associated assessment criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Services are disconnected.
  • Mould, die or forming device removed.
  • Mould, die or forming device is inspected, safely handled and transported to the relevant storage area.

    Associated assessment criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical and mechanical components are inspected for worn or damaged parts.
  • Safety issues are identified and resolved.
  • Pneumatic, hydraulic and mechanical components are lubricated.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated Summative Assessment:
    The external summative assessment will be a trade test conducted in terms of Section 26 D of the Skills Development Act through an evaluation of written and practical tasks covering critical aspects of the trade and conducted in a simulated environment at an assessment centre accredited by QCTO by an assessor registered by the National Artisan Moderation Body. The assessment will take place over a period of 2 days. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Plastics Manufacturing Machine Setter is a key function that is played by mid-level employee in the manufacturing of commonly used plastics and related products in many sectors of the economy, in many parts of the world.

    This international comparability with similar occupational qualifications is based on the experience of developed industrial countries drawn from the following countries:
  • New Zealand.
  • Australia.
  • Singapore.
  • The United Kingdom.
  • North Ireland.

    Similarities:

    The research shows that the countries surveyed have a progressive series of learning in plastics manufacturing with the following content:
  • Compulsory core modules or unit standards in common plastics manufacturing processes.
  • Related principles and practices of engineering and engineering technology (including tools and equipment Credits).
  • Applicable skills required for the world of work involved in plastics manufacturing.
  • This confirms that the SA occupational qualification is on par with international equivalents in terms structure and learning outcomes.

    Integration with the work experience:
    All the countries surveyed make provision for the integration of core learning with the world of work. This is made possible within the following range:
  • Elective learning that facilitates specialisation.
  • Workplace-based learning that is specific to the needs and requirements of a workplace.

    Differences:
    The survey confirms the commonality of the core areas of study. The differences relate to.
  • The packaging of the learning.
  • Levels of articulation within a pre-designed series.
  • Format of progression of the learning within the series.
  • Format of specialisation.

    Conclusion:
    The international equivalence of the occupational qualification is based on the core principles of science and engineering, engineering practices and the link to the world of work. The outlook of the SA qualification conforms to internal practice.
    The differences with the internal experience relate to the format of core content, the levels of specialisation, the style of articulation and the format of progression within a pre-designed series of learning and work experience. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification articulates with qualifications to be developed within the machine setting trades related to the following occupations:
  • Machine Setter supervisor.
  • Plastic Machine Setter trainer. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for external assessment:
    In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of statements of results and work experience including Foundational Learning Competence or equivalent.

    Additional legal or physical environment:
    None.

    Criteria for the Accreditation of Providers:
    Accreditation of providers to provide this qualification will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the QCTO website.

    The curriculum title and code is: Plastics Manufacturing Machine Setter: 653311001.

    Trades Covered by this Qualification:
    This qualification covers the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
    None

    Part Qualifications:
    This qualification does not have any associated part qualifications. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some of their learning programmes are moved to being recorded against the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replacement.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.