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: Beaming and Sizing Machine Operator 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
103181  Occupational Certificate: Beaming and Sizing 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  150  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 perform duties as a Beaming and Sizing Machine Operator.

A Beaming and Sizing Machine Operator cleans, loads, prepares, operates and monitors beaming and sizing machines to process textile yarns into a sized weaver's beam, according to specification, output and quality standards.

Qualifying learners will have acquired the competencies to operate textile beaming and sizing machines 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 sized yarn sheet and full weaver's beam products.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Conduct pre-production processes in order to prepare and set beaming and sizing machines for production according to beaming and sizing specifications to ensure weaver's beams comply with customer requirements and quality standards.
  • Operate and monitor beaming and sizing machines to convert yarn into sized weaver's beams according to set standards.
  • Identify and rectify deviations from beaming and sizing product specifications during the patrolling and monitoring process to ensure product quality.
  • Comply with health, safety and environment standards and housekeeping practices when operating beaming and sizing machines, to minimize hazards and reduce waste.

    Rationale:
    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 Gross domestic product (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.

    The textile industry can be found mostly in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, with some activity taking place in Gauteng.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    The textile industry is in a growth phase due to the ongoing 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 qualification is well suited to promote employment in capital intensive sub-sectors in the textile industry in general. The qualification will contribute to improved productivity, efficiency and quality, increase labour stability, reduce accidents, and extend the life of production machinery and equipment.

    Qualifying against the new qualification will 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.

    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 communication.
    Or
  • 3 years of workplace experience in a Beaming and Sizing Department. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skills and Work Experience Modules:

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 715202-002-00-00-KM-01, Beaming and Sizing Process Technology, Level 2, 24 Credits.
  • 715202-002-00-00-KM-02, Textile Production and Manufacturing Concepts, Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 715202-002-00-00-KM-03, Applied Numerical Literacy in the Textile Industry, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • 715202-002-00-00-KM-04, Applied English Literacy for the Textile Industry, Level 2, 4 Credits.
    Total number of Credits for Knowledge Modules: 40.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 715202-002-00-00-PM-01, Prepare Beam Stands and Sizing Machines to Assemble a Weaver's Beam According to Specifications, Level 2, 24 Credits.
  • 715202-002-00-00-PM-02, Operate and Control Beaming and Sizing Machines According to Operating Procedures, Level 2, 12 Credits.
  • 715202-002-00-00-PM-03, Patrol and Monitor Beaming and Sizing Processes to Maintain Continuous Output and Ensure Quality of Sized Weaver's Beams, Level 2, 12 Credits.
  • 715202-002-00-00-PM-04, Inspect, Identify and Correct Beaming and Sizing Process, Product or Machine Faults within Operator Control, Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 715202-002-00-00-PM-05, Apply Safety Standards and Housekeeping Practices when Operating Beaming and Sizing Machines to Minimize Hazards and Waste, Level 2, 6 Credits.
    Total number of Credits for Practical Skill Modules: 60.

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 715202-002-00-00-WM-01, Prepare Beaming and Sizing Machines for Production According to Product Specifications and Yarn/Thread Paths, Level 2, 20 Credits.
  • 715202-002-00-00-WM-02, Operate and Control Beaming and Sizing Machines to Process Warp Beams into Sized Weaver's Beams, Level 2, 10 Credits.
  • 715202-002-00-00-WM-03, Patrol and Monitor Beaming and Sizing Process, Level 2, 10 Credits.
  • 715202-002-00-00-WM-04, Maintain Quality Standards for Weaver's Beams, Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • 715202-002-00-00-WM-05, Apply Safety Standards and Housekeeping Practices during Beaming and Sizing Operations, Level 2, 5 Credits.
    Total number of Credits for Work Experience Modules: 50. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Prepare (clean, load, draw and set) beam stands and sizing machines to assemble a weaver's beam according to product specification and yarn/thread path.
    2. Operate and control (check, start, run, stop, doff) beaming and sizing machines to process textile yarns into weaver's beams according to operating procedures.
    3. Patrol beaming and sizing machines and monitor the beaming and sizing processes to ensure continuous production and maximum efficiency.
    4. Inspect and maintain the quality of beaming and sizing products according to product specifications and waste control measures.
    5. Apply safety, housekeeping and record keeping standards when operating beaming and sizing machines, to minimise hazards and reduce waste. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Beaming and sizing machine parts are identified, cleaned and checked for a new weaver's beam (quality) and controls and safety mechanisms are verified as functional and safe for use in sizing and beaming processes.
  • A beaming and sizing specification is read and interpreted in order to select the raw materials and relevant sizing and beaming machine components for the weaver's beam being produced.
  • The beaming and sizing machines are loaded with warp beams and the specified empty beam for the weaver's beam being produced, according to the specification and safety standards for sizing and beaming processes.
  • Specified raw materials (yarns) are threaded into beaming and sizing machines for processing into a sized weaver's beam in sizing and beaming processes.
  • Beaming and sizing machines are set for the weaver's beam being produced in sizing and beaming processes.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Pre-start checks are carried out on beaming and sizing machines and the beaming and sizing machines are started for production of a weaver's beam.
  • Beaming and sizing machines are started and run for bulk production according to procedure.
  • Beaming and sizing machines are operated and controlled (adjusted/cleaned/fixed) to maintain optimum production.
  • The beaming and sizing machines are stopped according to procedure and the sized (full) weaver's beam is doffed (removed) from the beaming machine without contaminating or damaging the weaver's beam.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Beaming and sizing machines are patrolled to ensure continuous production and minimise product (weaver's beam) non-conformance.
  • Beaming and sizing machines are adjusted to ensure continuous production and minimise product non-conformance.
  • The conversion processes and end products for sizing and beaming processes are identified.
  • Beaming and sizing processes are monitored to ensure optimum machine efficiency and output.
  • Production targets for a sizing and beaming process are interpreted and achieved.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Raw materials (yarns, warp beams), sized yarn sheets and weaver's beams are inspected for defects, and removed and replaced in order to minimize waste when loading or replenishing.
  • End products (sized yarn sheet and full weaver's beam) are inspected for quality faults during production and corrective action is taken.
  • Waste control measures for a sizing and beaming process are applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Safety standards, rules and regulations are complied with to ensure a safe working environment relevant to a sizing and beaming process.
  • Housekeeping practices relevant to a sizing and beaming process are applied.
  • Production records relevant to a sizing and beaming process are accurately completed.

    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 
    The Occupational Certificate: Beaming and Sizing Machine Operator has been compared to National Occupational Standards for the Textile Sector in India and applicable units from the Australian Certificate II in Textile Production (Intermediate).

    India:
    The Indian National Occupational Standards for the Textile Sector focuses on a range of specific tasks which include a Size Mixer and Sizing Machine Operator in a weaving preparation department. It focuses on the skills and knowledge to run these machines efficiently so as to get maximum output with minimum defects giving due importance to safety and environmental aspects. The following Indian Textile National Occupational Standards have been identified for comparison with the South African Qualification:
  • Sizing Machine Operator.
  • Size Mixer.

    The content of the Indian National Occupational Standards for the Textile Sector covers 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 documentation/reporting records, communication with supervisors and so forth. It has components referring to knowledge and understanding, as well as workplace requirements and organizational 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 serve the purpose of assessment for both the Size Mixer and the Sizing Machine Operator have been developed, consisting of performance criteria with assigned marks proportional to its importance.

    Australia:
    Units from the Certificate II in Textile Production (Intermediate) cover various generic aspects related to occupational safety and 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 beaming and sizing operations is:
  • Prepare yarn for textile manufacturing.

    This unit covers the skills and knowledge needed to "thread, spool, wind, size and beam yarn for production operations such as weaving, knitting or tufting". It deals with the knowledge and skills required for setting up and load - amongst others - warping machines, beaming machines, sizing machines, wind yarn onto spool, bobbin or beam or thread yarn onto machine, remove product from machine and complete records.

    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. No comparison could therefore be made. The Australian qualification is set at Level 2 on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

    The Australian qualification 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 beaming and sizing machines are similar and cover weaving contexts and processes. It can be concluded that the South African qualification compares well with the Indian National Occupational Standards for the Textile Sector as well as the Australian Certificate II in Textile Production (Intermediate). 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
    This qualification articulates horizontally with the:
  • Occupational Certificate: Weaving Machine Operator; Level 2.

    Vertical Articulation:
    This qualification articulates vertically with the:
  • National Certificate: N3 Weaving Preparation: Technical Controller; Level 3. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of statements of results and work experience records.

    Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements:
  • None.

    Criteria for the Accreditation of Providers:
  • Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) website.
  • The curriculum title and code is: Beaming and Sizing Machine Operator: 715202-002-00-00.

    Encompassed Trades:
    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the National Learners` Records Database (NLRD):
  • This is not a trade qualification.

    Qualifications Related to The Warping Machine Operator Occupation:
    715202-001-00-00, Creeling and Warping Machine Operator, Level 2, 150 Credits.
    715202-002-00-00, Beaming and Sizing Machine Operator, Level 2, 150 Credits. 
    		•

    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.