SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Occupational Certificate: Quality Controller

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
117309	Occupational Certificate: Quality Controller
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - CHIETA
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	173	Not Applicable	NQF Level 04	Regular-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered		SAQA 12129/20	2020-07-30	2025-07-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-07-30		2029-07-30

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 replaces:

Qual ID	Qualification Title	Pre-2009 NQF Level	NQF Level	Min Credits	Replacement Status
48794	National Certificate in Quality Checking of Tyres and Tyre Components	Level 3	NQF Level 03	134	Complete

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Quality Controller. A Quality Controller conducts quality verification and/or validation of raw materials, work-in-progress and finished products/services to ensure compliance with legislation, standards (national and/or international), standard operating procedures (SOPs), protocols and customer requirements.

A qualified learner will be able to:

Conduct input, process and output quality inspections for product/service conformity to specifications and standards.

Conduct validation of product/service input, in various stages of the process and final product/service, to ensure conformance to customer specification, GMP, SANS codes and national and international standards.

Identify and investigate causes of non-conformance (process deviation and non-conforming product), identify risks to product and recommend corrective action to address non-conformance.

Rationale:
Globally and in all economic sectors, companies and customers focus on quality. Customers expect high-quality products and services. The consistent focus on quality results in the reduction of waste and costs and continual monitoring of resources, processes and procedures ensures the quality of products and/or services. Therefore, the rationale of quality control is to reduce costs, waste and the likelihood of liability claims emanating from field recalls, which may lead to lawsuits. This qualification aims to provide learners, education and training providers and employers with the standards and competencies required to effectively participate in quality control activities in various sectors, processes and services.

Typical learners to enrol for this qualification include those with workplace experience. This qualification can be used in the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process to assess and recognise workplace skills acquired without formal education or training. The qualification describes the learning outcomes (the skills, knowledge and competencies) required to effectively perform the duties of a quality controller in the workplaces of various industries and service sectors.

This qualification guides education and training providers to develop learning programmes. It guides employers to identify skills gaps and develop programmes for closing those skills gaps.

Knowledge and skills include the verification of conformance and identification of non-conforming products and services to ensure that products and processes meet and maintain quality standards, customer, safety and legal requirements and all other quality-related requirements of both national and international standards.

This qualification is intended to cover the requirements of small, medium and large enterprises where adjustments to processes and services are subject to quality control. Traditionally, Quality Controllers check, inspect, test, verify, validate, assess and/or give feedback on the status of processes, services and/or products without providing clear direction on appropriate adjustments and/or corrective actions to be taken. Knowledge of appropriate actions allows the Quality Controller to constructively contribute to correct the process/product.

This qualification will enable learners to participate effectively in the quality control activities of various sectors. It is a stepping stone in the career path of quality assurance. Competent learners can assume employment as quality controllers and progress towards quality assurers, technical quality specialists and quality managers and find occupations in quality systems and processes in various sectors, such as services, hospitality, health, manufacturing, construction, information technology, etc.

The following industry associations or professional bodies were consulted to provide feedback and comment on the qualification:

South African Quality Institute (SAQI).

Southern African Society for Quality (SASQ).

South African Welding Education (SAWE).

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 results or by 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 3 qualification with Mathematical Literacy
Or

Occupational Certificate: Quality Inspector, NQF Level 3 with 2 years' assessed industry experience.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

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

Knowledge Modules:

684305-000-00-KM-01, Legal and other Requirements for Quality Control, Level 4, 7 Credits.

684305-000-00-KM-02, Introduction to Quality Control, Level 3, 6 Credits.

684305-000-00-KM-03, Personal Attributes for Interacting Effectively in the Workplace, Level 4, 3 Credits.

684305-000-00-KM-04, Quality Control Principles, Level 4, 6 Credits.

684305-000-00-KM-05, Process, Product, Service and Resource Requirements, Level 4, 7 Credits.

684305-000-00-KM-06, Testing Practices and Resources, Level 4, 7 Credits.

684305-000-00-KM-07, Data and Information Analysis, Level 4, 8 Credits.

684305-000-00-KM-08, Problem Solving for Quality Control, Level 4, 4 Credits.

684305-000-00-KM-09, Quality Inspection Practices, Level 3, 10 Credits.

The total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 58.

Practical Skill Modules:

684305-000-00-PM-01, Conduct Quality Inspections during and at the End of the Process to Verify Product and Service Quality, 3 Level, 10 Credits.

684305-000-00-PM-02, Test Input and Process at Various Stages of Operation as well as the Final Product or Service, Level 4, 8 Credits.

684305-000-00-PM-03, Analyse Data and Present Information, Level 4, 8 Credits.

684305-000-00-PM-04, Troubleshoot and Problem-solve Quality Non-conformance, Level 4, 8 Credits.

684305-000-00-PM-05, Adhere to Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental and Risk Requirements, Level 3, 1 Credit.

The total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 35.

Work Experience Modules:

684305-000-00-WM-01, Induction, Company Processes and Inspection Procedures, Level 3, 16 Credits.

684305-000-00-WM-02, Input and Output Quality Control, Level 4, 20 Credits.

684305-000-00-WM-03, Process Input and Product/Service Testing, Level 4, 22 Credits.

684305-000-00-WM-04, Data Analysis, Fault Finding and Recommendations for Non-conformances, Level 4, 22 Credits.

The total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 80.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Continuously and rigorously performs quality control activities during input, process procedures and output products/services, ensuring conformance with specifications, prevention of non-conformance and improvement of procedures and product/service.
2. Gather, analyse and evaluate relevant in-process information, using statistical methods and trends to make recommendations for improvement.
3. Formulate recommendations and remedies to address deviations and implement necessary corrective action.
4. Understand, use and apply policies and procedures to maintain safety, legal compliance, quality and the environment.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of quality control as well as of the working environment (services, health, education, production, construction, mining, etc.) when controlling quality within a specific process to identify or remove variation from standards and procedures thereby ensuring customer satisfaction.

Apply knowledge of quality management systems, applicable International Standards Organisation (ISO) requirements, internal and external customer standards, product and service and legal requirements when performing quality control of input, process and output for compliance with set standards.

Conduct inspections and testing of product, processes, input and resources for conformance to specifications.

Collect representative and random samples for inspection and testing purposes according to sampling procedures and requirements.

Test characteristics of input or components and products to verify conformance to standards.

Continuous identify non-conformances in procedures and products/services and ensure effective segregation of non-conforming products/service.

Enhance the relationship of the company towards stakeholders by ensuring continuous compliance of product/service in support of the sustainability of the company.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Collect and record testing data and results and observations on quality conformance or non-conformance from different sources.

Achieve collection and disposal of samples adhering to Standard Operating Procedures and applicable legislation.

Analyse data and information to determine whether the product is within the minimum and maximum limits using an appropriate analytical tool or combination of tools.

Present results using various formats and communicate with relevant stakeholders.

Carry out quality control activities to process and service by interpreting information from the text and operational symbols or representations to ensure product/service conformity to set standards.

Communicate information effectively to the relevant departments and stakeholders during pre- and post- quality control activities to ensure uniform information dissemination.

Sign reports and other quality control documentation upon completion to ensure accountability and legality of quality control documentation.

Analyse the relation between quality and cost, quality and productivity, quality and working environment and quality and safety using analytical tools such as statistical process control (SPC) and trend analysis for conformance of product/service, prevention of non-conformance and improvement.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Formulate and propose solutions in such a way as to minimise the reoccurrence of problems or inefficiencies.

Apply relevant problem-solving techniques to company resources, processes and product and service for improvement, prevention of re-occurrence and for enhancing efficiencies.

Compile various quality control reports for conformance as well as non-conformance.

Discuss and resolve problems, solutions and opportunities for improvement with workgroup members and internal customers and partners.

Communicate effectively with stakeholders on findings and recommendations.

Make recommendations for improvement of quality control procedures by motivating changes using relevant evidence for continuous improvement, corrective actions, risk mitigation measures, etc.

Demonstrate an understanding and application of Quality Management Systems, ensuring the quality of product/service in terms of customer satisfaction sustainability.

Recommend changes to procedures and processes, taking into account the consequences of related actions for resource, process and product and service improvement and enhancement of efficiencies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 (or as otherwise amended) and the implications thereof on quality control.

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concept of product liability.

Comply with safety requirements such as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and disposing of waste in an appropriate manner.

Accurate and timeous recording and reporting of conditions, outputs and incidents are done accurately.

Anticipate potential safety, health and environmental risks.

Integrated Formative Assessment:
The skills development providers 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 QCTO Assessment Quality partner, is required to issue this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and associated assessment criteria.

The external summative assessment will be conducted through an evaluation of written theoretical assessment and practical tasks covering critical aspects in a simulated environment at an assessment site accredited by QCTO and conducted by a registered assessor.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

International comparability was performed against the Indian Occupational Standards: QC Inspector Level 4. Second comparability was done against several training programs offered by the training division of the Sri Lanka Standards Institution.

India:
The Occupational Standards (OS) for the QC Inspector (Level 4) falls within the automotive sector (sub-sector: Manufacturing Support). The description of the role of QC Inspector is: "inspecting the manufactured products as per the quality standards and implementation of corrective actions". The experience required for this qualification is 2-4 years in a quality or manufacturing department. This qualification includes:

Inspecting and maintaining product quality.

Maintaining a safe, clean and secure working environment.

Maintaining 5S in the work premises.

Aspects included in the above OS are:

Stipulating the context as "receipt, in-process and final inspection" relevant to pre-delivery inspection of the product, first-off inspection of the pilot batch, raising non-conformance (scrap) alert and disposal of non-conforming product.

Working as a member of a team in terms of data collection and solving problems.

Identifying opportunities for improvements in the process.

Identifying and reporting risks and applying sound housekeeping procedures.

Ensuring proper documentation and storage.

Sri Lanka:
A selection of qualifications offered by the Sri Lanka Standards Institute was made based on the target group since levels are not specified. The comparability was done against the combination of the selected qualifications.

The Certificate Course in Quality Management is aimed at undergraduates, graduates and school leavers to acquire knowledge and professional qualification to enter into the field of Quality Management and secure employment. The duration of this course is ten days' contact time and includes the following quality control aspects: Standardisation; Use of regulations and standards; Basic Concepts of Quality; Quality Control Techniques; Sampling; Quality Cost and Teamwork.

The workshop for Quality Control for Product and Service Improvements is aimed at Quality Control personnel who are responsible for ensuring that all products or parts are constructed or repaired in accordance with approved procedures and specifications. The inspection process adopts a number of different methods inclusive of visual or specialised inspections or even detailed testing, depending on the severity of the situation. The duration of this workshop is 2 days and includes the following aspects: Concepts of Quality; Techniques for Discovery and Analysis of Quality Problems; Human Aspects in Quality; and Worker Participation in Quality.

The Training Programme on Statistical Process Control (SPC), Sampling Techniques and Inspection for ISO 9001 Quality Management System: Significant progress can be made towards solving company problems and improving the quality of goods and services by using Statistical Process Control (SPC), Sampling Techniques and Inspection. This workshop gives participants the tools and problem-solving techniques to improve the quality and productivity of your organisations' products and services. The duration of this workshop is two days. Aspects included are: Concepts of Variation; Data Collection and Summarization; Basic Statistical Distributions; Control Charts; Process Capability Studies; Sampling Inspection; and Acceptance Sampling and Bulk Sampling.

Workshop on Determination of Risks and Opportunities for Quality Management Systems: Risk-based thinking is a key concept that underpins ISO 9001:2015. Organisations must provide evidence that risks have been determined, considered, and where necessary, proportionate action was taken to address any risks and opportunities that may impact on the quality management system's ability to deliver its intended results. This course includes: Introduction to Risks and Opportunities; Risk Severity and Impact Analysis on the Performance of the Quality Management Systems; Management Approach in Risk Assessment; Risk Mitigation and Prevention; and Assignments and Practical Sessions.

The Distance Learning Programme on Seven Quality Management Tools (Q7) for Problem Solving is aimed at learners who wish to develop their career in quality-related activities and personnel involved in production/processing and providing services. The course content includes: Check Sheets; Pareto Chart; Histograms and Graphs; Stratification and Flow Charts; Cause-and-Effect Diagram; Control Charts; Scatter Diagrams and Problem-Solving Processes.

The Foundation Course in Quality Management (5 days) is aimed at junior managers, executives, supervisors and school learners who wish to develop their profession in Quality Management. It includes basic concepts of Quality Management, Total Quality Management (TQM), Standardisation, Service Quality, Sampling, Data collection and Summarisation, Quality Control Tools (Q7) and new seven management tools (N7), Kaizen Techniques, 5S Housekeeping Practices, Quality Circles, Teamwork, Problem Solving Process, Management Systems - ISO 9001, ISO 22000, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and basic concepts of metrology.

Other short courses offered by the Sri Lanka Standards Institute and which were used for comparability, are:

Determination of risks and opportunities for quality management systems (1 day).

Calibration of monitoring and measuring devices (1 day).

Training programme on measurement assurance and interpretation of test reports (1 day).

Workshop on basic concepts of quality and productivity (2 days).

Training programme on 5S applications in productivity and quality improvement (1 day).

Training programme on team work and role of quality circles in total employee participation (2 days).

Training programme on application of seven quality control tools (Q7) and new seven management tools (N7) for continual improvement (as per ISO 9001 and National Quality Award (NQA) models) (3 days).

Training programme on six sigma (1 day).

Training programme on managing safety and health at work-floor level (1 day).

Training programme on good manufacturing practices (GMP) for food industry (1 day).

No indication is given whether the above programmes include practical skills and it is assumed that these are theory-based training.

Conclusion:
The Occupational Certificate: Quality Controller compares well with the selected programmes offered by the Sri Lanka Standards Institute in terms of the content (theory) and covers similar aspects, though different terminology might be used. The comparison with the Indian qualification showed that the Occupational Certificate: Quality Controller includes a wider range of topics and more practical skills.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

National Certificate: Quality Assurance of Tyre Manufacturing Processes, NQF Level 4.

Vertical Articulation:

National Certificate: Quality Management Systems, NQF Level 5.

Higher Certificate in Total Quality Management, NQF Level 5.

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 including Foundational Learning Competence.

Criteria for the Accreditation of Providers:
Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the QCTO website.

The curriculum title and code is: Quality Controller and 684305-000-00-00.

Assessment Quality Partner:

CHIETA

Related Part Qualification:

684305-000-00-01, Occupational Certificate: Quality Inspector, Level 3.

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.

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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.

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