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: 

Perform a manicure and pedicure service 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
377505  Perform a manicure and pedicure service 
ORIGINATOR
Task Team - Beauty and Skin Care 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 11 - Services Personal Care 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 3  NQF Level 03  8 
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 replaces: 
US ID Unit Standard Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Credits Replacement Status
114786  Perform a manicure  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5   
114787  Perform a pedicure  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5   

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
The person credited with this unit standard is able to prepare and perform a complete manicure and pedicure service to meet client satisfaction.

The qualifying learner will be able to:
  • Explain the anatomy and physiology of hand and foot.
  • Explain the chemical properties of manicure and pedicure products.
  • Prepare the workstation for a manicure and pedicure service.
  • Prepare a client for a manicure or pedicure service.
  • Provide a manicure and/or pedicure service. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Learners accessing this qualification will have demonstrated competence in:
  • Communication skills at NQF Level 3.
  • Mathematical literacy skills at NQF Level 3. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
  • Hygienic procedures are to be followed:
    >Personal cleanliness, sanitation of tools and work area.
  • Appropriate tools for a pedicure or manicure include but are not limited to nail scissors, nail clippers, cuticle nippers, orange stick, emery boards, hoof sticks, buffers, foot files and foot rasp. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Explain the anatomy and physiology of the hand and foot. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Major muscular and skeletal components of the hand and foot are identified and explained within the context of a pedicure and manicure service. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Nail theory is explained in terms of structure, growth, shapes and major components of nails using a diagram. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Anatomical disorders of the hand and foot are identified and described for referral to a professional health practitioner. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Anatomical disorders include but are not limited to inflammation, enlargements, fallen arches, etc.
     

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Explain the chemical properties of manicure and pedicure products. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The main active ingredients in nail products are identified and explained with examples. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Main ingredients in nail products include but are not limited to cuticle remover, cuticle softener, hard skin remover, nail strengtheners, nail enamel, top coat, base coat, hand cream and nail varnish remover.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Potential chemical reactions when mixing nail products are explained with examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Different types of enamel application techniques are explained with examples. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Prepare the workstation for a manicure and a pedicure service. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Tools and equipment for a manicure and pedicure service are identified and described in terms of their specific use. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Tools and equipment are sanitised, maintained and stored in accordance with organisational requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The record keeping documents are completed according to organisational requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Prepare a client for a manicure and pedicure service. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The need to be courteous and helpful towards clients is explained in accordance with organisational procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The service to be performed is determined to meet to ensure that client's needs are meet. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Principles for assessing nail and skin disorders/diseases are discussed in order to determine abnormalities requiring special treatment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The client's nails and skin are assessed in order to determine contra-indications in terms of skin and nail disorders and diseases for referral purposes. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Contra-indications include but are not limited to skin or nail disorders or diseases-bacterial, fungal, viral, parasitic, systemic, allergic reactions, bruising or swelling, areas exhibiting loss of tactile sensation, cuts or abrasions, recent operations and areas of recent fractures or sprains.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Assessment findings are recorded for future reference. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Equipment, products, and materials are selected and prepared to accord maximum efficiency of service. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The nails and surrounding skin are cleansed and made free of any varnish. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Recommendations are captured on client records for future reference purposes. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Perform a manicure and pedicure service. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Different nail shapes are explained in terms of advantages and disadvantages. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Manicure and pedicure tools and equipment are described in terms of their application. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Tools and equipment include but are limited to cuticle nippers, skin rasps, nail scissors/clippers, cuticle sticks, files, buffers and cuticle knives.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Client is consulted to determine the desired shape and length of nails. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Procedures for performing manicure and pedicure are explained in terms of steps to be followed. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Procedures include but are not limited to filing and shaping nails, cleaning client's nails, cuticle care, massage, removing all traces of massage lotion, buffing, coating, painting, drying and specialist treatments.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The cuticles are softened and pushed back to minimise discomfort. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Techniques for relaxing hand and forearm massage are demonstrated in accordance with standard practices. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Techniques include but are not limited to effleurage, petrissage and/or friction movements.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Ways in which nail appearance can be improved and enhanced are identified and explained with examples. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Ways refers to carrying out hand and nail routines.
     

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Provide aftercare advice. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Client feedback is obtained using effective questioning and active listening skills. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The outcomes of treatment are recorded legibly for future reference. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Future treatment program plan is recommended to meet client's needs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Guidelines for hand and nail aftercare are provided to enhance the service provided. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Product recommendations are made accordingly to meet client requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Client is re-booked according to agreed treatment plan. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The follow-up procedures are undertaken according to organisational requirements. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Follow-up procedures include but are not limited to record card, home-care advice, product sales, referral, monitoring of client and clean-up.
     


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • An individual wishing to be assessed (including through RPL) against this unit standard may apply to an assessment agency, assessor or provider institution accredited by the relevant ETQA.
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard or assessing this unit standard must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be conducted by the relevant ETQA at its discretion. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
  • A basic understanding of consultation techniques and purposes.
  • A basic understanding of assessment techniques and record cards.
  • An in depth understanding of manicure products and tools, their purpose, indications, precautions and effects.
  • A broad understanding of the working environment, hygienic and efficient preparation of surroundings, tools, materials, consumables and waste disposal.
  • A basic understanding of working practices, techniques, safe and hygienic practices, according to company instruction.
  • A basic understanding of the identification of contra-indications in the form of skin and nail diseases and disorders.
  • A basic understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the nail and nail bed.
  • A basic understanding of the structure and functions of the systems of the limbs with specific referent to; structure and functions of the skin, muscular system of the limbs and the lymphatic system.
  • A basic understanding of the skin and its appendages as well as skin types.
  • A basic understanding of the various layers, structures and supporting structures found within the skin.
  • A basic understanding of the function and composition of each structure found in the skin.
  • A basic understanding of the direct influence the various systems have on the structure and effective functioning of the skin.
  • A basic understanding of the mechanisms that control the functioning of the skin.
  • A basic understanding of the terms; blood, lymph, muscles and bones. 
    		•

    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 order to plan and perform successful manicure services on a range of clients and to identify and solve problems such as dealing with contra-indications, selection of unsuitable nail shapes and/or treatment choices by the client. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation and community by booking, preparing and completing any of the manicure services within a commercial work environment. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively by booking, preparing and completing any of the manicure services in a professional, organised and cost effective manner. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information in order to perform the most suitable manicure services. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively giving appropriate homecare advice to clients, completing client record cards and recommending related services and products. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology to complete the manicure services and using products and tools in a safe and professional manner. 

    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 
    This unit standard replaces the following unit standards:
  • 114786, "Perform a manicure", Level 3, 5 credits.
  • 114787, " Perform a pedicure", Level 3, 5 credits. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  80646   Further Education and Training Certificate: Beauty and Nail Technology  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  SERVICES 


    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.