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: 

Analyse samples quantitatively by means of X-ray spectrometry (Aztec) 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
246435  Analyse samples quantitatively by means of X-ray spectrometry (Aztec) 
ORIGINATOR
Chemical Industries SGB 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Fabrication and Extraction 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
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 
This unit standard will be useful to people who are required to perform determinations via X-Ray Fluorescence (Aztec). It is applicable to laboratory personnel in chemical laboratories.

People credited with this unit standard are able to:
  • Demonstrate knowledge relating to quantitative X-ray Fluorescence (Aztec) analysis.
  • Quantify analyte concentrations in samples.

    This unit standard will contribute to the full development of the learner by providing recognition, further mobility and transportability within the sub-fields of manufacturing and assembly, physical sciences, life sciences, environmental sciences, earth and space sciences. The skills, knowledge and understanding demonstrated within this unit standard are essential for social and economic transformation and upliftment. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    The credit calculation is based on the assumption that learners are already competent in terms of the following outcomes or areas of learning when starting to learn towards this unit standard:
  • Sciences, Communications and Mathematics at NQF Level 3.
  • Relevant health, safety and environmental standards.
  • Ability to operate a computer to achieve the following:
    > Switch on and off.
    > Create and save files and directories.

    Principles of chemistry, at NQF Level 3. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    The typical context of this unit standard includes the microbiological tests described in the Terms and Definitions of this unit standard. Any laboratory environment applies.

    The level assigned to this unit standard is appropriate because the process requires a wide range of technical skills and offers a considerable choice of procedures. A broad knowledge base incorporating some theoretical concepts, analytical interpretation of information, informed judgement and a range of sometime innovative responses to concrete but often unfamiliar problems are employed. The application of this unit standard is to qualify the person for certification in advanced trade and technical occupations. 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Demonstrate understanding of quantitative X-ray Fluorescence (Aztec) analysis. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Hazards and risks pertaining to this process are identified and explained with reference to team health and safety and environmental impact. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The appropriate preventive measures to contain or limit hazards and risks are described in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Common problems are explained in terms of their effect on the process. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Identified common problems must include:
  • Sample stuck in magazine.
  • Vacuum leak.
  • Interruption to flow of cooling water.
  • Incorrect gas pressure and flow rate.
  • Analyte concentration falls outside calibration range.
  • Reading against incorrect standards.
  • Contamination.
  • Insufficient instrument warm-up time.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Appropriate preventative or corrective actions are described in accordance with safe working practice. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Apply knowledge of the Aztec technique to laboratory activities. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The Aztec technique is explained with reference to basic X -ray fluorescence principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The principal components of the spectrometer and auxiliary equipment are identified and their primary functions are described in accordance with specified requirements. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Principal components must include:
  • Sample magazine.
  • Tube.
  • Cooling system.
  • Vacuum system.
  • Gas supply system.
  • Instrument software.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The consequences of non-compliance with specified requirements are explained with respect to personal and team health and safety, impact on the environment, production, quality control, costs and lost time. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The reasons for the determination are explained in terms of production, analysis required and specified requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Analyse samples quantitatively by means of X-ray Spectrometry. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The required personal protective equipment is available, operational, fit for purpose and used in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The equipment to be used is identified, verified, used and maintained in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Analyte concentrations are determined in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Any problems encountered are identified and corrective action taken in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Work is conducted to meet health, safety and environmental standards in accordance with specified requirements. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Health, safety and environmental issues must include:
  • Housekeeping.
  • Waste disposal.
  • Storage.
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Report results of the X-ray Spectrometry. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Sample details are recorded in accordance to workplace procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Equipment conditions are checked and recorded in accordance with workplace procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Reagent and analyte concentrations and other relevant information are recorded in accordance with workplace procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Data is processed and required calculations are reported in accordance with workplace procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Problems encountered and corrective actions taken are reported in accordance with workplace procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Final results and validity of these results are reported in accordance with workplace procedures. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Internal moderation.
  • External moderation.
  • An assessor, accredited by the relevant ETQA, will assess the learner's competency.
  • Assessment procedures will be supplied by the ETQA in alignment with NSB requirements.
  • All assessment activities must be fair, so that all candidates have equal opportunities. Activities must be free of gender, ethnic or other bias.
  • Assessment and moderation procedures, activities and tools must be transparent, affordable and support development within the field, sub-field and NQF.
  • Questions and answers to determine theoretical knowledge are expected.
  • Examination of an assessment portfolio.
  • Reporting skills are demonstrated by effective communication, using verbal (language) and/or writing skills.
  • Direct observation in simulated or actual work conditions.

    Practical demonstration of the mentioned techniques. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    The qualifying learner understands and is able to:
  • Demonstrate understanding of quantitative X-ray Fluorescence (Aztec) analysis.
  • Apply knowledge of the Aztec technique to laboratory activities.
  • Analyse samples quantitatively by means of the X-ray Spectrometry.
  • Report results of the X-ray Spectrometry. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems in which response displays that responsible decisions, using critical and creative thinking, have been made by:
  • Explaining common problems and their effects on the process.
  • Identifying problems and taking corrective action in accordance with specified requirements.
  • Reporting on the test results.

    Refer to the following Specific Outcome(s):
  • Demonstrate understanding of quantitative X-ray Fluorescence (Aztec) analysis.
  • Analyse samples quantitatively by means of X-ray Spectrometry.
  • Report results of the X-ray Spectrometry. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community by:
  • Maintaining sound relations with co-workers.
  • Working according to workplace occupational safety standards.

    Refer to the following Specific Outcome(s):
  • Apply knowledge of the Aztec technique to laboratory activities.
  • Analyse samples quantitatively by means of X-ray Spectrometry.
  • Report results of the X-ray Spectrometry. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively by:
  • Identifying the equipment and reagents used for the specific techniques and describing the function of each.
  • Preparing for tests according to workplace procedures.

    Refer to the following Specific Outcome(s):
  • Demonstrate understanding of quantitative X-ray Fluorescence (Aztec) analysis.
  • Apply knowledge of the Aztec technique to laboratory activities. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information:
  • Evaluating and interpreting test results and drawing a conclusion on the conformance to set specifications.
  • Explaining deviations from specifications according to standard chemical principles.

    Refer to the following Specific Outcome(s):
  • Report results of the X-ray Spectrometry. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively by using mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentations by:
  • Obtaining and interpreting testing schedules.
  • Keeping records.
  • Calculating, recording and reporting test results.

    Refer to the following Specific Outcome(s):
  • Apply knowledge of the Aztec technique to laboratory activities.
  • Analyse samples quantitatively by means of X-ray Spectrometry. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others by:
  • Working safely and according to workplace environmental policy.

    Refer to the following Specific Outcome(s):
  • Apply knowledge of the Aztec technique to laboratory activities.
  • Analyse samples quantitatively by means of X-ray Spectrometry.
  • Report results of the X-ray Spectrometry. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation by:
  • Understanding the purpose and use of X-ray spectrometry techniques.
  • Adhering to health, safety and environmental protection standards during laboratory activities.

    Refer to all Specific Outcomes. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO CONTRIBUTING 
    Contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the society at large by:
  • Understanding the role of X-ray spectrometry in the laboratory analysis environment and the effect it has on the growth and development of the organisation, its customers and employees.

    Refer to all Specific Outcomes. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

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

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    Terms and definitions:

    Microbiological tests include the following:
  • Microscopic techniques, including Gram staining and structural examination.
  • Pour plate methods (solid nutrient growth medium) - quantitative method.
  • Broth methods (liquid nutrient growth medium) - qualitative method.
  • Colour indicator tests, i.e. tests for microbiological metabolism (e.g. secretion of enzymes, gas production, utilisation of oxygen.
  • Rapid detection tests (quantitative and qualitative).
  • Instrumental techniques (e.g. infra-red analyser).

    The learner must be found competent in any two of the above techniques. Two samples must be analysed in duplicate for each technique.
  • Standard operating procedures: The documented practice(s) defining the who, what, and when of quality activities. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  58952   Further Education and Training Certificate: Laboratory Analysis  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Registered"     		 2008-08-05  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 
    Elective  64950   Further Education and Training Certificate: Laboratory Analysis  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 


    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.