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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Certificate: Metal and Engineering Manufacturing Processes 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
79686  National Certificate: Metal and Engineering Manufacturing Processes 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Manufacturing and Assembly Processes 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
MERSETA - Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Education and Training Authority  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
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 replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
21014  National Certificate: Metal and Engineering Manufacturing  Level 2  NQF Level 02  130  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

This Qualification is for any individual who is, or wishes to be, involved in a metal and engineering manufacturing processes environment. The purpose of the qualification is to provide learners, with the standards and the range of learning required to achieve competence in the operation and monitoring of machines in the metal and engineering manufacturing processes industry. This qualification recognises the skills, knowledge and values acquired by learners involved in operating and monitoring manufacturing machinery and assembling components and working in the metal and engineering industry using such processes.

The other related and important skills that are recognised in this qualification are reading and interpreting engineering drawings and marking off regular engineering shapes and the use of engineering hand and power tools. This capability requires an understanding of basic quality requirements and monitoring material flow.

The Qualification contains all the skills, knowledge, values and attitudes required by a learner who will be working at an entry level in a specific metal and engineering manufacturing processing environment. An individual acquiring this Qualification will be able to contribute to the efficient operation of a number of processes within this sector.

The main competencies in this qualification are:
  • Operating and monitoring machinery.
  • Completing post-production and finishing operations.
  • Reading and interpreting engineering drawings.
  • Marking-off regular engineering shapes.
  • Selecting, using and caring for engineering hand and power tools.
  • Verifying compliance to safety, health and environmental requirements in the workplace.
  • Explaining emergency preparedness and response procedures.
  • Working in a team.

    These competencies will enable the learner to work in different industries within the diverse metal and engineering manufacturing processes sector.

    Although this qualification is located within the manufacturing environment, it can be used in the production environment in so far as the competencies in the Core component apply to that environment.

    The Qualification ensures progression of learning, enabling the learner to perform optimally at an entry level within the metal and engineering manufacturing processes field and providing access to a higher Qualification within the same or a related sector. The Qualification will facilitate access to, and mobility within, education and training for learners who:
  • Would like to achieve this Qualification through the process of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and/or formal study.
  • Wish to extend their range of skills and knowledge and hence their competencies in the metal and engineering manufacturing processes environment.

    The Qualification also hopes to:
  • Release the potential of people.
  • Provide opportunities for people to explore related activities within the metal and engineering manufacturing processes sector.

    Rationale:

    This is the first Qualification in a series of three metal and engineering manufacturing processes qualifications that range from NQF Level 2 to 4. These qualifications constitute a learning pathway that takes the learners from basic/simple competencies in metal and engineering manufacturing processes at NQF Level 2 to fairly substantial metal and engineering manufacturing processes competencies at NQF Level 4. This first qualification provides access for learners who want to follow a career in the metal and engineering industry. This qualification reflects the skills, knowledge and understanding required to participate effectively in the metal and engineering processes industry, whether in micro, small, medium or large operations.

    The metal and engineering manufacturing processes industry is characterised by diverse 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. The highly developed metal and engineering manufacturing processes sector is well-established. It will be in the interest of the country and the sector to ensure that sector has high levels of productivity and efficiency. This qualification can assist the sector to obtain those goals.

    This Qualification forms the basis for further learning in the field of metal and engineering manufacturing processes at NQF Level 3 and 4. The Qualification and its related Unit Standards were developed to standardise the accreditation of learning programmes, resulting in improved quality management in terms of programme delivery.

    The National Certificate: Metal and Engineering Manufacturing Processes, NQF Level 2 supports the objectives of the NQF in that it gives the learner access to a registered Qualification. It will ensure that the quality of education and training in the sub-field is enhanced and of a world-class standard. The Qualification will allow learners not only to develop their knowledge and skills in the metal and engineering manufacturing processes sector ,but will also enable them to benchmark their competencies against international standards. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that Learners are competent in Communication and Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 1.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This Qualification may be achieved in part (or whole) through the recognition of relevant prior knowledge and/or experience. The learner must be able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this Qualification. As part of the provision of Recognition of Prior Learning providers are required to develop a structured means for the assessment of individual learners against the Unit Standards of the Qualification on a case-by-case basis. A range of assessment tools and techniques used during formative and summative assessment should also be used for Recognition of Prior Learning. Whatever assessment is used for Recognition of Prior Learning it should be jointly decided upon by the learner and the assessor. Such procedures, and the assessment of individual cases, are subject to moderation by independent assessors. The same principles that apply to assessment of this Qualification also apply to Recognition of Prior Learning.

    Learners may provide evidence of prior learning for which they may receive credit towards the Unit Standards and/or the Qualification as agreed to between the relevant provider and relevant ETQA or ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding in place with the relevant ETQA.

    Access to the Qualification:

    There is an open access to this Qualification, keeping in mind the "Learning Assumed to be in Place". 

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The Qualification consists of a Fundamental, a Core and an Elective Component.

    To be awarded the Qualification learners are required to obtain a minimum of 120 credits as detailed below.

    Fundamental Component:

    The Fundamental Component consists of Unit Standards to the value of 36 credits, all of which are compulsory.

    Core Component:

    The Core Component consists of Unit Standards to the value 68 credits, all of which are compulsory.

    Elective Component:

    The Elective Component consists of Unit Standards that will impart a variety of competencies to the learner. Learners are to choose Elective Unit Standards totalling a minimum of 16 credits to attain a minimum of 120 credits for this Qualification. 

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    Qualifying learners will be able to:

    1. Operate and monitor machinery in the metal and engineering related environment.
    Range:
  • These competencies can be used within manufacturing, production and assembly environments.

    2. Assemble components/products in a manufacturing or production environment.

    3. Explain the use of engineering drawings and marking-off procedures for regular engineering shapes.

    4. Demonstrate an understanding of Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental standards in the workplace.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    The qualification can assist in the development of all the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes. This can be done as follows:
  • Identify and solve problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made when:
    > Recognising and responding to problems/defects of materials and assembled product.
    > Interpreting an engineering drawing using knowledge of isometric and orthographic views.
    > Engaging with problems relating to marking off.
    > Identifying and solving problems related to the application and controlling of compliance to safety, health and environmental requirements in the workplace.
    > Identifying and solving problems in the process of responding to a type of emergency.
  • Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, community to:
    > Ensure that assembly objectives are achieved.
    > To contribute to the workgroup`s effort to complete post-production and finishing operations.
    > Ensure that there is a match between the drawing and the product.
    > Monitor, evaluate and remedy workplace safety, health and environmental practices.
  • Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsively and effectively when:
    > Ensuring that work and time schedule is followed and adjusted when necessary to allow for unexpected interruptions.
    > Applying the correct procedures for using, storing and looking after engineering power and hand tools.
    > Interpreting an engineering drawing.
    > Interpreting job instructions for performing a specific task.
    > Preparing for and marking off as per procedure.
    > Ensuring that all safety, health and environmental activities are in accordance with specific requirements.
    > Preparing and responding to emergencies in the workplace.
  • Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information to:
    > Classify the information from the process and the products and identify deviations from the norm.
    > Interpret information contained in engineering drawings.
    > assess the match between a drawing and a product/system/component/item.
    > Interpret information from production schedule to mark off materials.
    > Ensure that mutual aiders are given the correct details in the case of an emergency.
  • Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation to:
    > Record outputs, incidents, measurements and conditions.
    > Respond to questions or requests for more details.
    > Report on faulty or unsafe power and hand tools.
    > Discuss the interpretation of a drawing.
    > Clarify job instructions.
    > Record and report deviations from specified requirements and when providing feedback on the progress and results of the safety, health and environmental management programmes.
  • Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and the health of others by:
    > Using equipment, instruments and tools as per standard procedure.
    > Using the equipment according to manufacturer's instructions.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation when:
    > Identifying and responding to quality problems as part of the quality chain from manufacturing to customer.
    > Adapting general procedures for specific purposes and situations required for a particular product or customer.
    > Relating the use of power and hand tools to the manufacturing process.
    > Understanding the purpose of engineering drawings in the manufacturing process.
    > When engaging with problems in various activities and processes.
    > Monitoring and controlling the requirements for safety, health and environmental issues so that these do not have a negative impact on people, the organisation and the environment.
    > Recognising and explaining the relationships between the various systems and sub-systems of machinery - electrical, electronic, control, hydraulics, lubrication, heating and any others. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Consumables and materials required are checked to ensure that they meet quality requirements.
  • Equipment appropriate to the tasks to be performed are selected and used according to manufacturer's specifications.
  • Machines are checked, prepared, and operated according to standard operating procedures.
  • Machines are monitored for deviations and minor adjustments are made to ensure efficient operation.
  • Engineering and hand tools are selected, inspected, used and maintained according to standard operating procedures.
  • Mathematical principles and techniques are applied while operating and monitoring machinery.
  • Information pertaining to machine operation, changes and/or malfunctioning is recorded and reported as per workplace procedure.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Job instructions/production schedules are read, interpreted and the sequence of operations is determined.
  • Materials and consumables are used and monitored according to assembly needs.
  • Products and components are assembled or manufactured according to specifications and schedules.
  • Quality checks are performed on products and components for conformance and adjustments are made to ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Defective materials, products and components are identified and removed from the production/manufacturing/assembly line and dealt with according to standard operating procedures.
  • Finishing operations are performed according to standard operating procedures.
  • Completed components/products are dispatched as per standard operating procedure.
  • Mathematical calculations are used for the solutions to common operational problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Engineering drawings and sketches, and concepts relevant to them are explained in terms of their importance and purpose.
  • Knowledge of aspects of geometry and scales is used to understand drawings and sketches.
  • The role of isometric and orthographic views is explained in terms of how they assist in interpreting engineering drawings.
  • Engineering drawings and appropriate equipment are used to prepare for and perform marking-off procedures.
  • Quality checks are performed to ensure that marking-off meets production/manufacturing requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental requirements are explained and monitored in accordance with workplace requirements.
  • Performance of workplace safety activities is evaluated as required by safety, health and environmental management programmes.
  • Workplace non-compliance to and non-performance of safety, health and environmental measures are remedied as per requirements.
  • Different types of emergencies and various responses to alarms in the workplace are discussed to ensure safety of people and work area.
  • The functions of a safety officer and an emergency control centre are described.
  • Policies and procedures relevant to quality and risk management in the metal production environment are applied to eliminate or reduce danger and risk.
  • Emergencies arising from production operation are managed according to standard operating procedure.

    Integrated Assessment:

    The importance of integrated assessment is to confirm that the learner is able to demonstrate applied competence (practical, foundational and reflexive) and ensure that the purpose of this Qualification is achieved. Both formative and summative assessment methods and strategies are used to ensure that the Exit Level Outcomes and the purpose of the Qualification are achieved through achieving the Unit Standards. Learning, teaching and assessment are inextricably linked.

    Learning and assessment should be integrated and assessment practices must be fair, transparent, valid and reliable. A variety of assessment strategies and approaches must be used. This could include tests, assignments, projects, demonstrations and/or any applicable method. Evidence of the acquisition of competencies must be demonstrated through the Unit Standards, which enhance the integration of theory and practice as deemed appropriate at this level.

    Formative assessment is an on-going process which is used to assess the efficacy of the teaching and learning process. It is used to plan appropriate learning experiences to meet the learner's needs. Formative assessments can include a mix of simulated and actual (real) practice or authentic settings. Feedback from assessment informs both teaching and learning. If the learner has met the assessment criteria of all the Unit Standards then s/he has achieved the Exit Level Outcomes of the Qualification.

    Summative assessment is concerned with the judgement of the learning in relation to the Exit Level Outcomes of the Qualification. Such judgement must include integrated assessment(s) which test the learners' ability to integrate the larger body of knowledge, skills and attitudes, which are represented by the Exit Level Outcomes. Summative assessment can take the form of oral, written and practical examinations as agreed to by the relevant ETQA.

    Integrated assessment must be designed to achieve the following:
  • An integration of the achievement of the Exit Level Outcomes in a way that reflects a comprehensive approach to learning and shows that the purpose of the Qualification has been achieved.
  • Judgement of learner performance to provide evidence of applied competence or capability.

    Assessors and moderators should make use of a range of formative and summative assessment methods. Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.

    Assessment should ensure that all specific outcomes, embedded knowledge and Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are assessed. The assessment of the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes should be integrated with the assessment of specific outcomes and embedded knowledge. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification is part of a series of qualifications in the field of Metal and Engineering Manufacturing Processes from Levels 2 to 4 and was compared to similar qualifications - some outcomes-based - in various countries.

    This Qualification was compared to qualifications and short courses in the following countries:
  • United States - The US is one of the world's leaders in metal and engineering manufacturing processes.
  • United Kingdom - The UK also has a highly-developed metal and engineering manufacturing processes industry. It also has a number of institutions that offer training courses in this field.
  • New Zealand and Australia - They have qualification frameworks similar to the South African NQF; this facilitates comparison.
  • India - India has a thriving metal and engineering manufacturing processes industry.
  • Uganda-Japan. There is a cooperative endeavour between the two countries on a machining qualification.
  • SADC - Information from Botswana is included. Very little information available from Namibia and Zimbabwe.

    International comparability with the following metal and engineering manufacturing processes countries was attempted, with little success, as there was very little or no information available:
  • Japan.
  • Korea.
  • Sweden.
  • France.
  • Germany.
  • Italy.
  • China.

    There was also a paucity of information on training. This is described later.

    Comparability with the following countries was possible and the comparisons are listed below:

    Australia:

    The Hunter Christian School offers the following qualification:

    VET Metal and Engineering:

    Metal and Engineering is an excellent course for students wishing to enter the manufacturing and engineering trades or engineering careers at professional and para-professional level.
    In this course students develop a broad range of skills and knowledge appropriate to employment in a wide range of roles within engineering and related service industries.
    The course develops core competencies in workplace communication, occupational health and safety, task planning and quality control. Workshop activities include use of hand and power tools, electric arc welding, light fabrication and thermal forming and cutting. Students can choose additional elective units from a wide range of options.

    The duration of the course is 2 years (Years 11 and 12). And there is a mandatory 70 hours in workplace placement.

    Metal and Engineering is a Category B UAI subject, and has been developed in conjunction with the metal, engineering and related service industries to instil the skills and competencies required by employers in these industries.

    Working in the metal and engineering industry involves:
  • Constructing, assembling, installing, modifying, repairing and maintaining machinery.
  • Assembly and/or manufacture of parts, equipment, machines, instruments and tools.
  • Designing machinery, parts, computer hardware and electronic circuits, using 3D graphics and drafting skills.

    This course can start you on your way to many careers, some of which are:
  • Engineering draftsperson.
  • Engineer (automotive, fabrications, production, plastics, marine, mechanical).
  • Fitter.
  • Instrument maker.
  • Machinist.
  • Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic.
  • Robotics specialist.
  • Structural steel and welding supervisor.
  • Toolmaker.

    Kwinana Industries Council (KIC):

    The Kwinana Industries Council (KIC) is an incorporated business association with membership drawn from the Kwinana Industrial Area (KIA).

    The KIC seeks to achieve its goals by focusing on developing and employing leading edge technology; giving workplace health and safety top priority; taking a committed, responsible and pro-active approach to environmental protection; and forging a two-way partnership with the local community. It is involved in offering the following qualification:

    Certificate II Engineering - Production over two years:

    Year 1:
  • Perform engineering measurements.
  • Perform computations.
  • Apply principles of occupational health and safety in the work environment.
  • Plan to undertake a routine task.
  • Apply quality procedures.
  • Work with others in a manufacturing, engineering or related environment.
  • Use hand tools.
  • Use power tools/hand held operations.
  • Perform routine manual metal arc welding.
  • Perform manual heating and thermal cutting.
  • Operate and monitor machine/process.
  • Use workshop machines for basic operations.

    Year 2:
  • Carry out mechanical cutting.
  • Perform routine gas tungsten arc welding.
  • Perform routine gas metal arc welding.
  • Interpret technical drawing.
  • Apply quality systems.

    Metal and Engineering Certificate II:

    This is a 240 hours course.

    Students must attempt:
  • All compulsory units of competency (Group 1).
  • A selection of units of competency from the elective pool to a minimum of 70 indicative hours (Group 2).
  • The manufacturing, engineering and related services industries induction (Group 3).
  • A minimum of 70 hours of mandatory work placement (Group 4).

    Group 1: All 10 Compulsory Units:
  • Apply principles of occupational health and safety in the work environment.
  • Interpret technical drawing.
  • Perform engineering measurements.
  • Perform computations.
  • Plan to undertake a routine task.
  • Apply quality systems.
  • Apply quality procedures.
  • Work with others in a manufacturing, engineering or related environment.
  • Use hand tools.
  • Use power tools/hand held operations.

    Group 2: Minimum of 70 hours of Elective Units.

    Elective units may include any unit from the 240 indicative hour course which has not already been undertaken.

    Group 3: 10 hour Induction Unit.

    Group 4: 70 hour Work Placement Unit.

    The following is the course structure for a Metal and Engineering qualification of a provider in Australia.

    Term 1:
  • Manufacturing and engineering industry induction.
  • Use Hand Tools.
  • Use Power Tools/hand held.
  • Projects:
    > Produce Fabricated Vice components using Hand and Power Tools.
    > Gauging exercises.
    > Ball Valve exercise.
  • Measure with graduated devices.
  • Projects:
    > Measuring exercises: Vernier/Micrometer.
    > Folio and production of Brick carrier.

    Term 2:
  • Perform routine manual arc and/or gas metal arc welding.
  • Manufacturing and engineering industry induction.
  • Projects:
    > Welding practice and competency tests: Bead, Pad, Fillet Weld on MS plate.
  • Perform routine oxyacetylene welding.
  • Interpret technical drawing.
  • Projects:
    > Welding practice and competency tests: Bead, Pad, Fillet Weld on MS plate.
    > Drawing exercises.

    Term 3:
  • Sheet and plate assembly.
  • Interpret technical drawing.
  • Projects:
    > Welding of Fabricated Vice assemblies/Jigs.
    > Assembly/Painting of Fabricated Vice.
    > Basic Machining: Vice components.
    > Drawing exercises.
  • Interpret technical drawing.
  • Perform Computations.
  • Projects:
    > Drawing exercises.
    > Trial and revision of HSC units.
    > Computation exercises.

    Term 4:
  • Sheet and plate assembly.
  • Interpret technical drawing.
  • Projects:
    > Sheet metal Toolbox.
    > Drawing exercises.

    Note:
  • HSC Foundation units:
    > Undertake interactive workplace communication.
    > Apply principles of OHS in work environment.
    > Apply quality procedures.
    > Apply quality systems to be embedded & contextualised throughout the course.
    > Perform computations: Recognition of Prior Learning granted to students studying HSC Maths Courses.

    The United Kingdom:

    Exeter College:

    Exeter College offers the following qualification:

    Part time Performing Engineering Operations:

    As an Apprentice you will work towards the NVQ level 2 in Performing Engineering Operations and the Intermediate Certificate in Engineering and Technology. You will learn about health and safety within an engineering environment, reading engineering drawings, practical skills in bench fitting, turning, milling, grinding, MIG welding, TIG welding, manual metal arc welding, oxy-acetylene welding.

    Cornwall College St Austell:

    This institution offers the following qualification:

    Performing Manufacturing operations NVQ 1:

    The Performing Manufacturing Operations NVQ 1 covers a range of manufacturing processes which are common to a variety of industries and sectors. These include manufacturing shaped, processed, formed, finished, joined, assemblies and moulded products and also packaging products. They are suitable for operators engaged in a wide range of production processes. Candidates may demonstrate competence in the relevant manufacturing skills of the industry in which they are employed.

    Portsmouth (Hampshire):

    This institution offers a short course entitled 'Introduction to Turning'.

    If you would like to develop your engineering ability and add Turning to your skill base, this course is an excellent introduction that covers all the basic theories, techniques and practices associated with Turning.

    As Turning machines are highly technical and require specialist training, this course is extremely safety-focused and will enable you to operate Turning machinery to the highest safety standards. Attending this course will enable you to operate the machinery effectively and safely.

    The course covers the following:
  • Machine safety and guarding.
  • Understanding of machine controls.
  • Use of measuring equipment i.e. verniers, micrometers.
  • Work holding devices.
  • Basic cutting tool identification and setting.
  • Reading and interpretation of engineering drawings.
  • Understanding and selecting feeds and speeds.
  • Use of the tail-stock and compound slides.
  • Basic lathe operations consisting of: facing off; turning to length and diameter; parting off.
  • Chamfering and drilling.

    RCS Limited:

    This company offers the following short course through distance learning - Engineering Drawing and Design.

    Course objectives:

    To take concepts forward into reality requires not only the technical ability to see them through, but also the will to succeed. If you believe you have the desire to work at the sharp end of transforming ideas into successful designs, then why not let the ICS Engineering, Drawing and Design course help you make some of your own dreams come.

    City and Guilds:

    Performing Manufacturing Operations - NVQ 1, 2:

    A wide range of activities such as shaping, moulding, packaging, process control and inspection are covered in a number of sector industries like:
  • Printing and Photographic Processing.
  • Chemicals.
  • Metals.
  • Rubber and plastics.
  • Food, drink and tobacco.
  • Paper, glass and china.

    The qualifications will facilitate personal development and enable learners to gain a broader understanding of the manufacturing process. For younger learners, achieving the level 2 NVQ can contribute towards a Foundation Modern Apprenticeship.

    The NVQs in Performing Manufacturing Operations are designed for those working in the manufacturing industry. A learner will be one of the following:
  • Newly recruited.
  • Already working in the manufacturing industry.
  • A trainee on a funded government training programme.

    Sheet Metal Worker course:

    Most training in manufacturing is on the job, working under the supervision of an experienced colleague, and often combined with part-time attendance at college. Most jobs have the possibility of promotion to roles with greater responsibilities, particularly for those who undertake further study and gain qualifications.

    Sheet metal workers make a wide range of items using pieces of flat metal up to three millimetres thick. Some examples include:
  • Panels and other parts for motor vehicles and aeroplanes.
  • Electrical and electronic equipment.
  • Domestic appliances and furniture.
  • Narrow strips for wheel rims.
  • Food preparation and pharmaceutical equipment.
  • Tables, trolleys and storage systems.
  • Stainless steel products.

    Sheet metal workers often work with mild steel, but may also work with other ferrous metals, such as stainless or galvanised steel, or non-ferrous metals, such as aluminium, copper, brass and pewter.

    They work from engineering drawings and mark out shapes on the metal before cutting them out. Some work on benches using hand-powered tools. Increasingly, sheet metal workers use computer numerically controlled (CNC) cutting and pressing machines when producing quantities of metal sheets for mass-produced items. In some jobs, it may be the sheet metal worker's responsibility to key instructions into the machine's computer.

    Sheet metal workers also use:
  • Measuring equipment, such as spirit levels, gauges and micrometers.
  • Brake presses and guillotines.
  • Bending machines.
  • Drill presses and punches.
  • Metal expanding machines.
  • Crimping machines.
  • Laser cutters.
  • Riveting, brazing, soldering and welding equipment to assemble items.

    Oxford Cambridge RSA Qualification Examination:

    The Oxford Cambridge RSA Qualification Examination in the United Kingdom provides a variety of vocational qualifications in many areas. They have designed a series of manufacturing qualifications (Diplomas) at Levels 1, 2 and 3 in Manufacturing and Product Design, for implementation in 2009. The draft unit titles of the UK Level 1 Diploma - which constitute the principal learning - have resonance with the competencies of the South African Level 2 qualification in Metal Production. Although the UK qualification is focussed on product design and is located primarily in the manufacturing environment, there are generic competencies that can be drawn upon for comparison purposes. Manufacturing and production are closely related but not identical.

    The draft unit titles are:
  • Introduction to manufacturing.
  • Dealing with customers and suppliers within a manufacturing business.
  • Introduction to working practices in manufacturing.
  • Manufacturing: Introduction to product design and development.
  • Manufacturing: Introduction to materials science.
  • Manufacturing a product.

    United States of America:

    There is not much information available about training or training programmes in manufacturing processes at this at this level. However, according to the websites of the American Iron and Steel Institute, the education and training you need in order to work in the steel manufacturing industry depends on the kind of job you want. Some companies prefer to hire high school or vocational school graduates for processing jobs. Most training is done on the job, however. Usually, workers start in unskilled jobs and learn by helping experienced workers. It takes up to four years to learn some of the most highly skilled jobs, such as those of blowers or rollers, but you may have to wait much longer for an opening in one of these positions. Steel companies often encourage their employees to take courses in subjects such as chemistry, physics, or metallurgy to upgrade their skills.

    Advancement in plant jobs in the steel industry usually follows a set pattern. For example, a worker may start as a labor and become a second helper, a first helper, and then a keeper before advancing to a job as a blast furnace blower. Companies usually consider such factors as experience and leadership ability when promoting workers into positions that require the supervision of other workers.

    Metals-Manufacturing 3: Mass Production and Documentation Portfolio:

    Course Content:

    The primary purpose of this class is to provide a learning experience in some underlying principles of production technology. This class will consist of one major project to be completed in coordination with all members of the class.

    To complete the class successfully this class will require outside of class time in the lab. Past classes have needed to come in during Winter and Spring breaks. The amount of outside of class time needed will depend on the complexity of the project chosen by the class.

    Topics to be covered in Metals-Manufacturing 3 are:
  • Plan, develop and complete a unit that would exemplify Production Technology in industry. The conceptual product idea should come from the students in the class followed by designing, developing fixtures when necessary, fabricating, machining, welding all assemblies together, and finishing the product. This is to stimulate all aspects of industrial practices. Within the manufacturing of this product, equipment from the CAM lab might be integrated. A document will be created containing:
    > All drawings, flow charts, manufacturing procedure, daily logs, and job descriptions.
  • Become familiar with the principles of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) and Computer Assisted Manufacturing (CAM). This would include:
    > A short history of CNC and CAM.
    > Explaining the Cartesian or Rectangular Coordinates.
    > Programming Direct Machine Input (DMI) devices.

    India:

    Kennametal Knowledge Center:

    Onsite Courses - Bangalore, India.

    India is dedicated to providing high-level metalworking education, using expert instructors and the most current technology available, to organizations who are working towards global standards of excellence in their manufacturing operations.

    Kennametal Knowledge Center - India, conducts various education/training courses to meet the training needs of the Industries as listed below.

    Metal Cutting Application Engineering Course Comprehensive.

    This is a short course.

    Course Content:

    This course is designed to provide the metal cutting professional with necessary skills to gain optimum performance in metal cutting operations. This course covers four major topics:
  • Mechanics of Metal Cutting will cover tooling from a design perspective. This section starts with a discussion on "How Tools Cut" and progresses through the design elements related to turning, milling, and drilling. All aspects of cutting geometry will be discussed along with its relationship to the cutting edge, work-piece material and power.
  • Materials Technology will start with a discussion of common cutting tool materials and how they relate to each other. A discussion of powder metal technology will start with "How Carbide Is Made" and progress through modern carbide and ceramic grade technology. Coating technology will include common application methods as well as the latest advances in coating materials.
  • Selection and Application will introduce the tool path method of selecting and applying tooling. This section will be divided into three main operations of turning, milling, and hole-making. Selection and Application will include processing exercises to provide hands-on experience.
  • Machining Economics will cover elements that affect productivity and overall cost, such as establishing operating conditions to gain maximum efficiency; the cause-and-effect relationship between operating conditions and tool failure; machinability, testing methods, and cost justification.

    Apart from the above, we do cover subject on Fixtures for Machine Tools, wherein we talk about importance of Fixture, Design and Selection criteria, Trouble Shooting.
    The participants will obtain in-depth knowledge on:
  • Tool engineering and tooling materials.
  • Right selection of cutting tools and machining parameters.
  • Understanding tool failures while machining and solutions to avoid the same.
  • Optimizing tool performance through productivity.
  • Understanding machining cost versus tool life.
  • Fixture of machine tools and their significance on varying applications.

    Additionally, specific tips for good machining practice will be explained.

    New Zealand:

    The following related qualification is offered:

    National Certificate in Manufacturing (Metal and Related Products) (Level 2).

    This is an introductory qualification for production personnel employed in the manufacture of metal and related products. It represents the skills and knowledge typically achieved in the first year of work in a manufacturing environment.

    The compulsory section covers:
  • Health and safety.
  • Manufacturing processes.
  • Knowledge of metals and other materials used in manufacturing.
  • Measurement.
  • Engineering hand tools.
  • Interpersonal communications.

    The elective section allows candidates to choose from a wide range of standards to suit the nature of their work and enterprise, and includes computing, competitive manufacturing, can making, manufacturing processes, materials management, mechanical engineering, and powered industrial lift trucks.

    The following standards are attached to this qualification:
  • Demonstrate care and timeliness as an employee.
  • Select, use and care for, engineering hand tools.
  • Demonstrate basic knowledge of engineering materials.
  • Select, use, and care for simple measuring devices used in engineering.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of workplace health and safety requirements.
  • Apply safe work practices in the workplace.
  • Participate in a group/team which has an objective(s).
  • Fill in a form.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of company quality policy on a manufacturing site.
  • Maintain housekeeping in a manufacturing environment.
  • Perform calculations for manufacturing production processes.
  • Develop and use keyboarding skills to enter text.
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge of a personal computer system.
  • Communicate information in a specified workplace.
  • Apply listening techniques.
  • Hold a conversation with others.
  • Read texts for practical purposes.
  • Read and assess texts to gain knowledge.
  • Solve problems which require calculation with whole numbers 1, 2.

    The following Unit Standards appear under the 'manufacturing processes' section at this level.

    Level 2:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of company quality policy on a manufacturing site.
  • Label containers manually.
  • Maintain housekeeping in a manufacturing environment.
  • Perform calculations for manufacturing production processes.
  • Perform basic computing functions in a manufacturing environment.
  • Inspect, handle, package, and label product in a manufacturing environment.
  • Perform non-ferrous extrusion process operations.
  • Feed materials or components in a manufacturing environment.
  • Assemble components within a manufacturing environment.
  • Hand assemble components within a manufacturing environment.

    Uganda - Japan:

    Nakawa Vocational Training Institute (NVTI) is one of the four Public Vocational Training Institutes directly operated and administered by the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) through the BTVET Department.

    In June 2007, a complementary project for Instructor Training for Vocational Education Training (ITVET) was instituted. The project's aim was to upgrade the competencies of in-service vocational training instructors in pedagogy and technical skills in Electronics, Electricity, Motor vehicle and Metal Fabrication.

    Nakawa VTI provides training, inter alia, in the areas below.

    Machining and Fitting:
  • Machining.
  • General Fitting.
  • Material Testing.
  • Machinery maintenance and repair.

    SADC:

    Several SADC countries were investigated (Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana) with regards to training in metal and engineering manufacturing processes. Information from Botswana is quoted here.

    Botswana:

    The Botswana Training Authority has the following unit standards, relevant to this qualification:
  • Level 2, Assemble mechanical components under supervision.
  • Level 2, Select, use, and care for engineering dimensional measuring equipment.
  • Level 2, Select, use, and care for engineering marking-out equipment.
  • Level 2, Monitor the condition of Heavy plant machinery and equipment under supervision.
  • Level 2, Dismantle, inspect, assemble and test heavy plant components under supervision.
  • Level 2, Demonstrate knowledge of manually controlled machining operations.

    Conclusion:

    The competencies covered in the National Certificate: Metal and Engineering Manufacturing Processes, NQF Level 2 are either similar to or have some degree of overlap with the qualifications and courses that are offered in countries investigated here. While direct and complete comparisons are rarely possible - given the very different contexts in the countries investigated - there are significant (and sometimes not-so-significant) overlaps between this qualification and those internationally. In some cases, it is difficult to figure out the levels of the international courses and qualifications but the overlap in competencies helped to benchmark this Qualification.

    The qualification from New Zealand resonates very favourably with this Qualification. There is also substantial similarity with the qualification offered by the Australian Kwinana Industries Council (KIC). In much the same vein, this Qualification compares well with the one offered by Exeter College and Portsmouth College in the UK. The short courses discussed here compare favourably with some of the Unit Standards in this Qualification. The lack of information from critical countries like China and Japan makes it difficult to make any comparison.

    On the whole this qualification compares very favourably with international qualifications or courses. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This Qualification lends itself to both vertical and horizontal articulation possibilities.

    Horizontal articulation is possible with the following Qualifications:
  • ID 64189: National Certificate: Metals Production, NQF Level 2.
  • ID 49402: National Certificate: Steel Tube and Pipe Manufacturing (Seamless Hot-Finished Or Welded Or Cold-Formed), NQF Level 2.
  • ID 58781: National Certificate: Production Technology, NQF Level 2.
  • ID 58718: National Certificate: Metals Processing, NQF Level 2.

    Vertical articulation is possible with the following Qualifications:
  • ID 79666: National Certificate: Metal and Engineering Manufacturing Processes, NQF Level 3.
  • ID 64190: National Certificate: Metals Production, NQF Level 3.
  • ID 58785: National Certificate: Production Technology, NQF Level 3.
  • ID 58719: National Certificate: Metals Processing, NQF Level 3. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this Qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, and Assurance (ETQA) Body.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this Qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA. Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the ETQA's policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation; in terms of agreements reached around assessment and moderation between ETQA's (including professional bodies); and in terms of the moderation guideline detailed immediately below.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the Qualification, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described both in individual Unit Standards, the integrated competence described in the Qualification and will include competence within core sales and the elective standards relevant to the economic sector.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this Qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    For an applicant to register as an assessor, the applicant needs:
  • A minimum of two years' practical, relevant occupational experience.
  • A relevant Qualification at NQF Level 3 or higher.
  • To be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    This qualification replaces qualification 21014, "National Certificate: Metal and Engineering Manufacturing", Level 2, 130 credits. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  265003  Assemble components  Level 2  NQF Level 02  12 
    Core  265000  Complete post-production and finishing operations  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Core  259597  Explain emergency preparedness and response procedures  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Core  335897  Mark off regular engineering shapes  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Core  9876  Operate and monitor machinery  Level 2  NQF Level 02  12 
    Core  335860  Read and interpret engineering drawings  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Core  119744  Select, use and care for engineering hand tools  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Core  12219  Select, use and care for engineering power tools  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Core  259604  Verify compliance to safety, health and environmental requirements in the workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Core  9322  Work in a team  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  119463  Access and use information from texts  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  9009  Apply basic knowledge of statistics and probability to influence the use of data and procedures in order to investigate life related problems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  7480  Demonstrate understanding of rational and irrational numbers and number systems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  9008  Identify, describe, compare, classify, explore shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional shapes in different contexts  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  119454  Maintain and adapt oral/signed communication  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  119460  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  7469  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal and community life  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Fundamental  9007  Work with a range of patterns and functions and solve problems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  119456  Write/present for a defined context  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  252250  Apply fire fighting techniques  Level 1  NQF Level 01  3 
    Elective  119567  Perform basic life support and first aid procedures  Level 1  NQF Level 01  5 
    Elective  243067  Cut materials using the oxy-fuel gas cutting process (manual cutting)  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Elective  12466  Explain the individual`s role within business  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244365  Lift and move material and equipment by means of a forklift  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  242976  Operate overhead/gantry cranes  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  119753  Perform basic welding/joining of metals  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Elective  335896  Prepare surfaces  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.
     
    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.