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 UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Test and evaluate the quality of plastics raw materials and finished products 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
119183  Test and evaluate the quality of plastics raw materials and finished products 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Plastics Manufacturing 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
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 unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
In order for me to perform effectively in the field of plastics manufacturing, I will be able to:
  • Sample, prepare and test finished products to ensure that the quality of the product conforms to the supplied specifications.

    I will also know and understand:
  • The importance of following test and accurate data collection procedures and how this is achieved.

    The activities reflected in this unit standard may not form part of my day-to-day activities. The knowledge and skills, however, are key to engaging in other related activities such as conducting trials of materials, tooling and product designs, setting equipment and identifying problems.

    I can be assessed against this unit standard in the context of any volume plastics manufacturing process, e.g.
  • Injection moulding.
  • Blow moulding.
  • Various kinds of extrusion.
  • Variations of thermoforming.
  • Rotational moulding.
  • Calendaring.
  • Compression and related moulding processes.
  • Reaction injection moulding.
  • Polymer composites fabrication processes such as pultrusion, filament winding and resin injection.

    The volume production process also includes the regeneration of recycled materials and the manufacture of intermediate products such as sheet, profiles, compounds and master batches.

    The skill, knowledge and values reflected in this unit standard form part of the exit level outcomes required for the National Certificate in Plastics Manufacturing NQF Level 5 and other related manufacturing qualifications. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    The credits for this unit standard assume that I have a National Certificate in Plastics Manufacturing NQF Level 4 or an equivalent qualification. They also assume that I am working towards my qualification as part of a learning programme which integrates all the required unit standards.

    This unit standard has been designed as part of a progression. It is one of a series of unit standards for testing product in a manufacturing setting.

    My learning time will increase if I do not have:
  • A relevant NQF 4 qualification.
  • Experience in a relevant field.

    My learning time will be decreased if I have experience in this field because:
  • My learning programme will be adjusted to build on what I already know.
  • I can apply to have that prior learning recognised. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    The scope and level of this unit standard is indicated by range statements related to the specific outcomes.

    The range of tests covered includes both destructive and non-destructive tests. Activities will include comparing collected data with the supplied specifications. Evaluating refers to making choices between various options, not only on conformance. The choices will relate to operational and are related to maintain efficiencies, optimising processes and solving problems.

    Some of the tests will require laboratory equipment, even though the learner will not necessarily be working in a laboratory.

    The learner should be able to work autonomously. The work will be guided by relevant worksite procedures, manufacturers' specifications and safety, health and environmental legislation. 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Determine type of product to be tested and the type of test required and select appropriate test specifications. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Type of test includes:
  • Non-destructive tests include mass and density, surface hardness, dimensional tests, colour comparisons, internal stresses/orientation, internal structure of materials, voids.
  • Destructive tests include environmental stress cracking, compression and tensile tests, impact, pressure, active or passive drop tests, storage tests, ageing tests.
  • Tests conducted may include tests to determine processing properties of raw materials, mechanical properties, thermal properties, electrical properties, chemical properties and ageing, and the long-term behaviour of product.
  • Determine: make decisions on actions required based on production or customer reports or according to special customer requirements. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    See the consolidated assessment criteria for this unit standard which are listed under the last outcome. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    The assessment criteria for this unit standard have been consolidated to:
  • Facilitate integrated assessment.
  • Ensure that the purpose of the unit standard as a whole is assessed (not just the component parts).

    Use the consolidated assessment criteria that are reflected under the last outcome to develop the assessment guides and assessment tools for this unit standard. 
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Prepare testing programme, set testing parameters if applicable and start and run the testing equipment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    See the consolidated assessment criteria for this unit standard which are listed under the last outcome. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    The assessment criteria for this unit standard have been consolidated to:
  • Facilitate integrated assessment.
  • Ensure that the purpose of the unit standard as a whole is assessed (not just the component parts).

    Use the consolidated assessment criteria that are reflected under the last outcome to develop the assessment guides and assessment tools for this unit standard. 
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Monitor testing process, collate and summarise data and compile and store reports. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    See the consolidated assessment criteria for this unit standard which are listed under the last outcome. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    The assessment criteria for this unit standard have been consolidated to:
  • Facilitate integrated assessment.
  • Ensure that the purpose of the unit standard as a whole is assessed (not just the component parts).

    Use the consolidated assessment criteria that are reflected under the last outcome to develop the assessment guides and assessment tools for this unit standard. 
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Store or dispose of samples used in the testing process. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    See the consolidated assessment criteria for this unit standard which are listed under the last outcome. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    The assessment criteria for this unit standard have been consolidated to:
  • Facilitate integrated assessment.
  • Ensure that the purpose of the unit standard as a whole is assessed (not just the component parts).

    Use the consolidated assessment criteria that are reflected under the last outcome to develop the assessment guides and assessment tools for this unit standard. 
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Report, discuss and explain issues related to and raised by the testing process and the tests results. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    This outcome refers to interactions not only internal to the company but also with external parties such as suppliers and customers. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Quality of the product and the manufacturing process is evaluated. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Results achieved. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Records of test results and method used are stored appropriately and are traceable. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Results achieved. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Testing equipment is operated according to standard testing procedures. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Applicable sampling, storage and disposal procedures are followed. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Testing equipment is maintained, calibrated and cared for appropriately. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Problems are identified and resolved or reported immediately. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    A clean and tidy work environment is maintained. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Reports and records are accurate and clear. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
    Work is performed safely with due care for self, fellow workers, equipment, materials and the environment. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 10 
    Discussions of issues demonstrate that I have an understanding of the key concepts and principles related to this activity and an understanding of how these relate to application in practice. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Understanding confirmed. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Issues, key concepts and principles include:
  • Incidents and problems related to the quality testing process and test results.
  • In-service evaluation of product.
  • Testing methods and the testing process for each method - sequence, procedures and techniques.
  • Test equipment used.
  • Applicable theory.
  • Reporting and documentation requirements.
  • The implications of not adhering to the sequence of activities and operations as described in the specific outcomes and making decisions inappropriate to the task.
     
    		•


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
    To obtain credits I must be assessed. The assessment will be based on evidence that I produce. My assessment will be governed by the policies and guidelines of a relevant Education and Training Quality Assurance body (ETQA), which has jurisdiction over this field of learning. The policies and procedures of the relevant ETQA will also determine:
  • How my assessment is moderated.
  • How I can appeal against the outcome of the assessment.

    Any institution or company which offers learning that will enable me to achieve the purpose of this unit standard must be accredited as a provider through the relevant ETQA.

    My assessment against this standard should meet all the requirements of established principles. It should include practical assessment activities, which are appropriate to the contents of this unit standard. These activities should include an appropriate combination of self and peer assessment, practical and oral assessments, observations, etc.

    I can be assessed in the language of my choice although if I have to report incidents or conditions to someone else, I will be assessed on my ability to report in the language commonly used in my working environment.

    I will be assessed on all the specific outcomes, critical cross-field outcomes and essential embedded knowledge. The specific outcomes must be assessed in their own right, through oral and practical evidence. My assessment will not only be based on observation but also on other evidence which I compile into a portfolio of evidence. I cannot be assessed only through a written or oral test.

    The specific outcomes and essential knowledge will be assessed in relation to each other. If I am able to explain the items which fall under the heading of essential embedded knowledge, but am unable to perform the specific outcomes, then I cannot be assessed as 'competent'. Similarly, if I am able to perform tasks described under the specific outcomes, but cannot explain or justify them in terms of the fundamental concepts, principles and practice relevant to the level of the unit standard that underpins my skill, then I cannot be assessed as 'competent'.

    I will also be assessed on my ability to apply the principles and techniques related to the critical cross-field outcomes, not only in terms of what I can demonstrate, but also in terms of what I know and can discuss.

    My assessment for this unit standard can be done in conjunction with the assessment of other unit standards related to a qualification, and even in conjunction with my assessment for the qualification as a whole. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    The following items reflect the type of knowledge that the assessor will evaluate:

    1. Names and functions of:
  • Testing equipment.
  • Different test types.
  • Test techniques.
  • Production, inspection and measuring equipment.

    2. Purpose of:
  • In-service evaluation.
  • Testing processes.
  • Product quality inspections.
  • Documents related to the manufacturing process.

    3. Attributes, descriptions, characteristics and properties:
  • Product size, nature, type.
  • Raw material, particle size, state, nature, type.
  • Typical product non-conformances.
  • Raw material and finished product properties and customer requirements.

    4. Processes and events:
  • Calibrating and setting equipment.
  • Testing process.
  • Nature and sequence of operations.

    5. Causes and effects, implications of:
  • Causes and effects of non-conformances.
  • Effects of chemicals, dust and poor workplace practices on health and safety.
  • Effects of incorrect labelling of test samples.
  • Impact of equipment malfunction on the testing process.
  • Implications of incorrect use of testing equipment and not following testing procedures accurately.
  • Implications of overlooking product quality.
  • Inaccuracy of data and analysis.
  • Information gathering and analysis.
  • Not being aware of critical points in test where mistakes could be made or results become inaccurate.
  • Not meeting customer requirements.
  • Possible problem areas.
  • Impact of accurate testing on product quality and customer relations.
  • Impact of international standards on workplace practices.

    6. Procedures and techniques:
  • Collecting and reporting on equipment condition.
  • Identifying problems.
  • Information gathering.
  • Inspecting product quality.
  • Procedure for dealing with non-conformances.
  • Procedures for analysis and evaluation of test results.
  • Procedures for ensuring safety and limiting damage.
  • Procedures for evaluating test results.
  • Sampling and testing.
  • Statistical techniques.

    7. Sensory cues:
  • Sensory cues (what I see, hear, smell, feel) used to identify problems during product testing.

    8. Regulations, legislation, agreements, policies, standards:
  • Applicable safety, health and environmental protection legislation.
  • Applicable manufacturing and product standards and specification.
  • Applicable company policies and procedures.
  • Quality standards and specifications.

    9. Theory: rules, principles, laws:
  • Related mathematical and scientific rules, principles and laws.
  • Testing principles.
  • Principles of problem identification, data analysis.

    10. Categories:
  • Of data.
  • Of problems.

    11. Relationships, systems:
  • Relationship between manufacturing equipment, manufacturing process, input material and quality of product.
  • Relationship between product quality and the testing process. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
  • Recognise and respond to problems while conducting in-service evaluation.
  • Recognise and respond to problems identified in the evaluation process. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Interact with others in the processes of sampling, testing and reporting. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Follow test and accurate data collection procedures. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
  • Collect, summarise and analyse data from the testing process.
  • Classify the test results and identify deviations from the norm. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
  • Represent numeric data in a variety of forms.
  • Record and document all activities related to the testing process. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Apply and explain the principles related to testing. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Relate the process of sampling, preparing and testing raw materials and products to the broader manufacturing process. 

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    My assessor will be registered and have a plastics manufacturing qualification at NQF 6 or higher. In the absence of assessors with such qualifications, the ETQA can make interim arrangements. My assessor should also be active in the industry and be familiar with the materials, machinery, products and level of technology in which I have contextualised my skills and knowledge. 

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

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    N/A 

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  36153   National Certificate: Polymer Composite Fabrication  Level 4  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L4  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  49448   National Certificate: Plastics Manufacturing  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  57122   National Certificate: Printing and Manufacture of Packaging  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2015-06-30  FPMSETA 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    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.