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 intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing in a laboratory environment 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
246456  Perform intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing in a laboratory environment 
ORIGINATOR
Chemical Industries SGB 
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 4  NQF Level 04  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 does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
This unit standard is intended for a person who has to perform intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing in a laboratory environment. Intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing is described in the Terms and Definitions of this unit standard.

A person credited with this unit standard is able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing in a laboratory environment.
  • Prepare for intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing.
  • Perform intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing.
  • Report on the results of the intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing.

    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 
    Description of required skills:
  • Communication, mathematical literacy and natural science, NQF Level 3.
  • Introductory principles of chemistry, NQF Level 3.
  • Introductory principles of physics, NQF Level 3.
  • Knowledge about the use and application of the Periodic Table.
  • Knowledge of fundamental chemical equations, NQF Level 3.
  • Basic gravimetric analysis and its principles (any two techniques - See Terms and Definitions of this unit standard).
  • Basic non-instrumental (physical) testing and its principles (any two techniques - See Terms and Definitions of this unit standard).
  • Basic instrumental techniques, its principles and calibration of the instruments involved (any two techniques - See Terms and Definitions of this unit standard). 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    The typical context of this unit standard includes the intermediate non-instrumental (physical) techniques described in the Terms and Definition 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 an understanding of intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing in a laboratory environment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The importance of performing the specific intermediate non-instrumental (physical) tests is explained according to standard chemical and quality control principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The principles of the specific tests are explained according to standard chemical principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The equipment and reagents (where relevant) used for the specific tests are identified and the function of each is described according to standard chemical principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The procedures for the specific tests are described according to standard operating procedures and with reference to the reasons for each step in the procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Prepare for intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Preparations for each test are done according to standard operating, safety and hygiene procedures. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Preparations include:
  • Personal preparation.
  • Preparation of equipment (including calibration of instruments where applicable) and work area.
  • Preparation of reagents (where relevant) to be used.
  • Preparation of samples to be tested.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Testing schedules are obtained and interpreted according to standard operating procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Perform intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    See Terms and Definitions of this unit standard. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The specific tests are performed according to standard operating procedures and chemical principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Equipment, samples and reagents (where applicable) are handled according to standard operating procedures and safety precautions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Test results are established without error and according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The importance of accurate results is explained according to standard principles of quality control and assurance. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The equipment and work area is left in a safe, neat and clean condition after performing the tests. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Waste from the tests is handled according to standard operating procedures and the organisation's environmental policy. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Report on the results of the intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Test results are calculated (where applicable) and recorded according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The specifications for each test are identified as set by the organisation and current legislation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Test results are evaluated and interpreted and a conclusion is drawn on the conformance to set specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Deviations from specifications are explained according to standard chemical principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Test results are reported according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The importance of accurate records and reports is explained according to standard principles of quality control and assurance. 


    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 an understanding of intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing in a laboratory environment.
  • Prepare for intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing.
  • Perform intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing.
  • Report on the results of the intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing. 
    		•

    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:
  • Preparing for tests.
  • Performing the tests.
  • Reporting on the test results.

    Refer to the following Specific Outcome/s:
  • Prepare for intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing.
  • Perform intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing.
  • Report on the results of the intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community by:
  • Preparing for tests.
  • Performing the tests.
  • Reporting on the test results.

    Refer to the following Specific Outcome/s:
  • Prepare for intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing.
  • Perform intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing.
  • Report on the results of the intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively by:
  • Preparing for tests.

    Refer to the following Specific Outcome/s:
  • Prepare for intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.

    Refer to all Specific Outcomes. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively by using mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentations by:
  • Explaining concepts.
  • Keeping records.
  • Reporting on test results.

    Refer to all Specific Outcomes. 
    		•

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

    Refer to the following Specific Outcome/s:
  • Prepare for intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing.
  • Perform intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing. 
    		•

    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.

    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.

    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 and notes to the Assessor:

    Basic gravimetric analysis: Contains those simple procedures for which the final measurement is a weighing:
  • Ash.
  • Foreign matter.
  • Insoluble matter.
  • Loss on drying.
  • Loss on ignition.
  • Moisture content (by drying).
  • Suspended solids.
  • Total solids (determined by evaporation and weighing).
  • Residue on evaporation.

    Basic non-instrumental (physical) testing: Divided into two groups according to the assessed degree of difficulty, Group 1 being the simpler procedures:

    Group 1:
  • Colour (e.g. Tintometer comparator).
  • Organoleptic testing (odour and taste).
  • Permanganate test.
  • Specific gravity using hydrometers.

    Group 2:
  • Particle size using screens.
  • Tablet test (e.g. Friability, hardness).
  • Viscosity using tubes.

    Basic instrumental techniques: Includes the following:
  • Automatic distillations and Kjeldahl apparatus.
  • Boiling or melting point using melting point apparatus.
  • Conductivity.
  • Density using a densitometer.
  • Optical rotation.
  • pH using a meter.
  • Refractive index.
  • Softening point.
  • Total organic carbon.
  • Viscosity using a Brookfield viscometer.

    Intermediate non-instrumental (physical) testing: Includes the following:

    Group 1:
  • Boiling or melting point using a manual method.
  • Density using a pycnometer.

    Group 2:
  • Basic volumetric analysis (e.g. acid-base and simple redox titrations).
  • Kjeldahl nitrogen determinations using non-instrumental methods.
    (The learner must be found competent in any two of the above techniques, of which at least one must be from Group 2. The Group 2 method selected must require the use of volumetric glassware, including performing manual titrations. Two samples must be analysed 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  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 
    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 


    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.