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 QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Textile Wet Process Preparation Machine Operator 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
103144  Occupational Certificate: Textile Wet Process Preparation Machine Operator 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - FPMSETA (MAN) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  180  Not Applicable  NQF Level 02  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2018-09-12  2025-12-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30   2029-12-30  

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 does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to equip a learner with knowledge, skills and competencies to operate as a Textile Wet Process Preparation Machine Operator. A Textile Wet Process Preparation Machine Operator operates relevant textile wet process preparation machines to produce textile goods to required end-finishes to customer requirements and standards and ensure optimum machine and operator efficiency for two of the following textile wet product preparation processes: bleaching, mercerising, washing, desizing, scouring and milling.

Qualifying learners will have acquired the competencies to operate textile wet process preparation machines during bleaching, mercerising, washing, desizing, scouring and milling processes to full capacity as required by the company, detect deviations in set standards and react appropriately to address such deviations related to the machine operation, conversion process and product quality. They will have a thorough understanding of the importance of achieving and maintaining quantity standards related to aspects such as machine efficiency and minimising machine down-time as well as quality standards for improved condition of textile substrates for further processing.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Interpret production specifications and batch card (work ticket) for a textile wet process preparation product and identify the correct substrate for the process.
  • Accurately define the mixing of chemicals for textile wet process preparation products.
  • Set up and operate textile wet process preparation machines selecting any two of the following processes: milling, washing, scouring, bleaching, mercerizing and de-sizing aiming to facilitate and improve the condition of textile substrates for further processing and to ensure optimum machine and operator efficiency.
  • Monitor and inspect all products during the production process for product faults, process faults and machine faults and take corrective action to achieve quality standards.
  • List and apply company safety, housekeeping and waste control measures for textile wet process preparation machine operations.

    Rationale:
    The textile industry is in a growth phase due to the on-going support by government with new employment opportunities being created in specialised textiles. The replacement of an ageing workforce approaching retirement will create employment opportunities. The Occupational Certificate: Textile Wet Process Preparation Machine Operator is well suited to promote employment in capital intensive sub-sectors in the textile industry in general. This qualification will contribute to improved productivity, efficiency and quality, increase labour stability, reduce accidents, and extend the life of production machinery and equipment.

    In July 2007, Cabinet endorsed the first Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) that detailed key action and timeframes for the implementation of the policy. The textile sector was selected for support due to its strategic importance for its contribution to employment and the desire to retain the core capabilities that had been developed in the industry.

    The Clothing and Textiles Competitiveness Programme (CTCP) was introduced in 2009 and is subdivided into the Competitiveness Improvement Programme (CIP) and Production Incentive Programme (PIP). Both CIP and PIP make provision for skills development, aimed at addressing the persistent skills deficits and mismatches that continue to hamper individual and technological development. This qualification will support the above national strategies.

    In 2013, the Clothing, Textiles, Footwear and Leather (CTFL) industry accounted for about 14% of manufacturing employment and represented South Africa's second largest source of tax revenue. The industry facilitates an estimated 80 000 jobs and contributes around 8% to the GDP of the country.

    The textile industry can be found mostly in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, with some activity taking place in Gauteng. Two distinct groups have been identified. Firstly, new entrants into the industry who have a school qualification or adults with limited basic schooling, and secondly, existing employees/operators who have been operating in the industry for a number of years without receiving appropriate recognition for the competencies acquired in the workplace and who are operating without the necessary underpinning knowledge.

    Owing to technological developments that are closing the major product gaps, local textile production has evolved into a capital-intensive industry, producing synthetic fibres in ever-increasing proportions.

    This qualification intends to increase job security and improve employability in this occupation as well as in related operational activities. In addition, the qualification will assist towards qualifying a learner for career advancement, particularly into a supervisory or artisanal role. Qualifying learners will have acquired the competencies to operate textile wet process preparation machines during bleaching, mercerising, washing, desizing, scouring and milling processes to full capacity as required by the company, detect deviations in set standards and react appropriately to address such deviations related to the machine operation, conversion process and product quality. They will have a thorough understanding of the importance of achieving and maintaining quantity standards related to aspects such as machine efficiency and minimising machine down-time as well as quality standards for improved condition of textile substrates for further processing.

    Various employer organisations and a trade union participated in the process of developing this qualification by identifying representatives to participate in the working groups and supplying input and comment during the consultation processes. These are:
  • South African Cotton Textile Processing Employers' Association (SACTPEA).
  • South African Carpet Manufacturing Employers' Association (SACMEA).
  • National Manufactured Fibres Employers' Association (NMFEA).
  • National Association of Worsted Textile Manufacturers (NAWTM).
  • Narrow Fabric Manufacturers Association (NFMA).
  • South African Wool and Mohair Processors' Employers' Organisation (SAWAMPEO).
  • National Textile Manufacturers' Association (NTMA).
  • South African Home Textiles Manufacturers Employers' Organisation (HOMETEX).
  • South African Blankets Manufacturers Employers' Organisation (SABMEO).
  • South African Clothing and Textile Workers Union (SACTWU) (Trade Union). 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.

    RPL for Access to the Qualification:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
  • NQF Level 1 qualification with experience in business operations.
    Or
  • 3 years of workplace experience in a Wet Process Preparation Department. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory knowledge, practical skills and work experience modules at Level 2 totalling 180 Credits.

    Knowledge Modules, 40 Credits:
  • 715401-003-00-00-KM-01 Textile Wet Process Preparation Process Technology, Level 2, 24 Credits.
  • 715401-003-00-00-KM-02 Textile Production and Manufacturing Concepts, Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 715401-003-00-00-KM-03 Applied Numerical Literacy in the Textile Industry, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • 715401-003-00-00-KM-04 Applied English Literacy for the Textile Industry, Level 2, 12 Credits.

    Practical Skill Modules, 75 Credits:
  • 715401-003-00-00-PM-02 Prepare Appropriate Textile Wet Process Preparation Machines for Production as per Product Specification, Level 2, 25 Credits.
  • 715401-003-00-00-PM-03 Start, Stop, Inch and Doff designated Textile Wet Process Preparation Machines to achieve Optimum Output Levels, Level 2, 16 Credits.
  • 715401-003-00-00-PM-04 Patrol and Monitor a Textile Wet Process Preparation Machine, Process and Product for Faults and take Corrective Action, Level 2, 16 Credits.
  • 715401-003-00-00-PM-05 Apply Safety, Housekeeping and Waste Control Procedures in compliance with Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental Regulations and Company Procedures related to Textile Wet Process Preparation Processes, Level 2, 6 Credits.

    Work Experience Modules, 65 Credits:
  • 715401-003-00-00-WM-01 Textile Wet Process Preparation Recipe Mixing, Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 715401-003-00-00-WM-02 Textile Wet Process Preparation Machine Preparation Processes, Level 2, 23 Credits.
  • 715401-003-00-00-WM-03 Textile Wet Process Preparation Machines Optimisation, Level 2, 15 Credits.
  • 715401-003-00-00-WM-04 Textile Wet Process Preparation Monitoring and Patrolling Processes, Level 15 Credits.
  • 715401-003-00-00-WM-05 Company Safety, Housekeeping and Waste Control Compliance in a Textile Wet Process Preparation Department, Level 2, 4 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Interpret product specification and batch card (work ticket) and recipe and select and mix chemicals or additives in the correct sequence to achieve the required quality of product as per product specification for textile wet process preparation processes.
    2. Set up all necessary machine settings safely as specified on textile wet process preparation machines and prepare them for production as per required product specifications.
    3. Operate the textile wet process preparation machines by following all start up, inching and safety procedures in order to achieve smooth machine operation and to achieve optimum output levels for two of the following textile wet product preparation processes: bleaching, mercerising, washing, de-sizing, scouring and milling.
    4. Patrol and monitor the textile wet process preparation machine and process regularly in order to observe and take corrective action on any abnormalities.
    5. Inspect and monitor the quality of products being produced and take corrective action on all defect products in order to maintain the quality of products as specified for textile wet process preparation processes.
    6. List and apply the safety, housekeeping and waste control procedures and practices in compliance with health, safety and environmental legislation and adhering to company policies and procedures. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Product specification information and batch card details are interpreted, correct substrate is selected and output products are correctly identified for textile wet process preparation processes.
  • Chemicals to be used are selected, weighed and mixed as per mixing sequence specified in the chemical recipe.
  • Various liquor sample tests such as pH levels, viscosity, consistency, temperature and Bohme are performed according to requirements.
  • Safety precautions and measures related to handling, mixing and storage of chemicals are applied according to material safety data sheet information.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Machine parts are identified and pre-start checks and inspection procedures and basic machine maintenance are carried out.
  • The procedure for loading, sewing and threading the substrate to applicable textile wet process preparation processes is explained and applied.
  • Machine settings such as temperature, machine speed and meter settings are identified and the procedure to activate machine controls and starting the textile wet process preparation machine is applied and explained.
  • Information to record on production documentation for traceability purposes is identified and noted.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Procedures for starting and operating textile wet process preparation machines are applied and described.
  • Types of machine stoppages and factors affecting machine efficiency are attended to and described.
  • Continuous availability of the correct substrate and chemical liquor throughout the process for machine optimisation is justified and ensured.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • The patrolling sequence of the textile wet process preparation machines is demonstrated and the consequence of incorrect patrolling sequence is explained.
  • All types of textile wet process preparation machine and process deviations within and outside operator control are identified and attended to.
  • The procedure involved in the calibration of measuring tools and equipment for textile wet process preparation processes is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Samples of product faults and possible causes during textile wet process preparation processes are identified and corrective action to rectify faults is described.
  • The monitoring and inspection of product faults during the textile wet process preparation production process are demonstrated and corrective action on all deviations is taken.
  • Monitoring and inspection procedures during the production run at exit point are conducted and corrective action to rectify faults is taken.
  • Quality standards and customer requirements are explained and achieved.
  • Active participation on quality change requirements is demonstrated as per standard operating procedure.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Health and safety procedures and environmental practices related to textile wet process preparation machines and processes are applied and justified.
  • The importance of adhering to safety rules and regulations related to the operation of machines and usage of tools and equipment is justified.
  • Housekeeping and waste control procedures and practices related to the specific textile wet process preparation machines/process are conducted.
  • Consequences of not adhering to housekeeping and waste control procedures and environmental practices and not keeping proper record are argued.
  • Information and relevant data are recorded on appropriate document.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated Summative Assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) Assessment Quality Partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification has been compared to National Occupational Standards for the Textile Sector in India and applicable units from the Certificate II in Textile Production (Intermediate) (LMT20107) of the Australian Government and Industry Skills Council.

    India:
    The Indian National Occupational Standards for the Textile Sector focuses on specific jobs in a wet finishing department to run different looms efficiently so as to get maximum output with minimum defects giving due importance to safety and environmental aspects. The National Occupational Standards for the Textile Sector applicable to this qualification are:
  • Continuous Bleaching Range Operator covering scouring, bleaching and dyeing of grey fabric.
  • Washing Range Operator covering washing of dyed or printed fabric.
  • Drying Range Operator covering drying and finishing of fabric.
  • Balloon Squeezer Machine Operator covering the de-twisting, spreading and squeezing of knitted fabric.
  • Relax Dryer Operator covering drying, relaxing and shrinking of knitted fabric.
  • Compacting Machine Operator covering the shrinking and compacting of knitted fabric.

    The respective National Occupational Standards cover compulsory occupational tasks such as: shift hand-over; operating machinery; machine cleaning and maintenance; working in a team; health and safety in the workplace; compliance with standard operating procedures; conformity to production and quality standards; completion of admin/reporting records; and communication with supervisors. The Indian National Occupational Standards groups all occupational tasks per job separately whilst the this qualification integrates the occupational tasks for Product Preparation (milling, bleaching, desizing, scouring, washing and mercerizing) into a single qualification.

    The Indian National Occupational Standards has components referring to knowledge and understanding, as well as workplace requirements and organisational context. There is, however, no reference to the practical skills that the learner will acquire.

    Credits and duration have not been determined and no comparison could be performed. Performance criteria, which will serve the purpose of assessment for different textile wet product preparation machines, have been developed consisting of performance criteria with assigned marks proportional to its importance.

    Australia:
    Units from the Certificate II in Textile Production (Intermediate) (LMT20107) cover various generic aspects related to occupational safety, general working practices such as teamwork, computer operation, productivity, sustaining process improvements and competitiveness. They also include aspects related to generic machine operation such as: Machine safety; handling of materials; product quality; minor machine maintenance; changeover activities; raw material identification and description; fault finding; and access and use of textile production information. The unit specifically relating to textile wet process preparation operations is:
  • Apply finishing processes to textile production.

    This Australian unit covers all the general operational tasks and performance criteria such as: Set up and load the machine or equipment; remove finished product and dispatch; identify and correct minor product faults; record and report major quality faults; read and interpret work specifications; adhere to work instructions and standard operating procedures; comply with shift hand-over procedures; clean machine and workplace; work within a team; comply with health and safety; and waste control practices in the workplace.

    The Australian qualification refers to the following finishing processes: brushing, coating, cropping, crushing, cutting, mending, milling, padding, scouring, washing and so forth whilst the South African occupational qualification refers to processes such as milling, washing, scouring, bleaching and mercerising.

    Entry requirements are not specified in the Australian Qualification. It is therefore unclear whether the prerequisites would in fact refer to entry level requirements or other prerequisites. No Credits or weighting of skills and knowledge are specified in the Australian units, neither is the duration, therefore no comparison could be made.

    The Australian qualification is set at Level 2 on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

    It specifies assessment in the Evidence Guide. In addition, the document mentions that assessment may occur "on the job or in an appropriately simulated environment" and it may be "assessed independently or in combination with other relevant units".

    Conclusion:
    The contents of these qualifications regarding the skills and knowledge needed by an operator of a textile wet process preparation machine are similar and cover wet finishing contexts and processes. It can be concluded that this qualification compares well with the Indian National Occupational Standards for the Textile Sector as well as the Certificate II in Textile Production (Intermediate). 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Occupational Certificate: Textile Wet Process Coating Machine Operator, Level 2.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • National Certificate: N3 Technical Dyer/Finisher, Level 3. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS 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.