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:

Elementary Certificate: Non-woven Needlepunch Production Machine Operator

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
119943	Elementary Certificate: Non-woven Needlepunch Production Machine Operator
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner-FPMSETA
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Elementary Certificate	Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology		Manufacturing and Assembly
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	141	Not Applicable	NQF Level 02	Regular-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered		EXCO 0812/22	2022-11-22	2027-11-22
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-11-22		2031-11-22

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 elementary qualification is to prepare a learner to function as a Non-woven Needlepunch Production Machine Operator.

A Non-woven Needlepunch Production Machine Operator operates the relevant non-woven needlepunch production machines at required efficiency rates and waste levels as per company standards to produce non-woven needled products that comply with quality specifications. The learner will be expected to operate one of the following machines and processes: needling process or structuring process which includes a pre-needling process.

A qualified learner will be able to:

Operate relevant non-woven needlepunch machines to achieve optimum output levels.

Monitor relevant non-woven needlepunch machines, products and processes to identify and take corrective actions on any deviations.

Inspect relevant needlepunched products at exit points for faults and take appropriate corrective action.

Apply health, safety and waste control measures and housekeeping practices in compliance with regulations during the relevant needle punch processes.

Rationale:
Qualifying learners will have acquired the competencies to operate nonwoven needlepunch 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 nonwoven needlepunched products. Learners will be able to efficiently monitor the relevant textile non-woven process, namely the needling process or structuring process which includes the pre-needling process.

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.

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 Program (CTCP) was introduced in 2009 and is subdivided into the Competitiveness Improvement Program (CIP) and Production Incentive Program (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 elementary 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 several 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 elementary 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):

Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification.

Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part qualification will be credited for modules through 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.

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

Entry Requirements:

An NQF Level 1 qualification with communication.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

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

Knowledge Modules:

715205-002-00-00-KM-01, Needlepunch Process Technology, NQF Level 2, 20 Credits.

715205-002-00-00-KM-02, Textile Production and Manufacturing Concepts, NQF Level 2,
8 Credits.

715205-002-00-00-KM-03, Applied Numerical Literacy in the Textile Industry, NQF Level 2,
4 Credits.

715205-002-00-00-KM-04, Applied English Literacy for the Textile Industry, NQF Level 2,
4 Credits.

715205-002-00-00-KM-05, Computer Operation and Application, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.

Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 44

Practical Skill Modules:

715205-002-00-00-PM-01, Operate relevant Needlepunch Machines to Achieve Optimum Output Levels, NQF Level 2, 12 Credits.

715205-002-00-00-PM-02, Patrol and Monitor relevant Needlepunch Machines, Products and Processes to Identify Deviations and Take Necessary Corrective Actions, NQF Level 2, 11 Credits.

715205-002-00-00-PM-03, Inspect End Products at Exit Points of relevant Needlepunch Machines for Faults and take Necessary Corrective Actions, NQF Level 2, 10 Credits.

715205-002-00-00-PM-04, Apply Health, Safety and Waste Control Measures and Housekeeping Practices in the Relevant Needlepunch Operations in compliance with Regulations, NQF Level 2,
3 Credits.

Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 36

Work Experience Modules:

715205-002-00-00-WM-01, Needlepunch Machines Operation for Achieving Optimum Output Levels, NQF Level 2, 22 Credits.

715205-002-00-00-WM-02, Needlepunch Machines, Products and Processes Monitoring, NQF
Level 2, 18 Credits.

715205-002-00-00-WM-03, Exit Point Inspection of Needlepunch Products, NQF Level 2, 18 Credits.

715205-002-00-00-WM-04, Health, Safety and Waste Control and Housekeeping Compliance in Needlepunch Operations, NQF Level 2, 3 Credits.

Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 61

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Prepare relevant needlepunch production machines and load with required raw materials as specified in the product specifications to ensure that the machines is/are fully prepared for the efficient operation of the production process.
2. Operate relevant needlepunch production machines adhering to all safety rules and regulations by starting, stopping, and inching the relevant machines and doffing the completed product to achieve smooth machine operation and achieve optimum output levels.
3. Patrol and monitor the relevant needlepunch production machines and processes regularly to identify and take corrective action timeously on any machine and process abnormalities.
4. Inspect and monitor the quality of relevant needlepunch products being produced during production processes and at the exit point of one of the needlepunch production machines and take corrective action on all defect products to maintain the quality of needlepunch products as specified in product specification.
5. List and apply the safety, housekeeping and waste control procedures and practices in compliance with health, safety and environmental legislation and adhere to company policies and procedures in the relevant needle punch production departments.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Describe and apply details of the product specification for the needlepunch process and identify the correct raw materials to be used for production of needlepunched end-products and recognised.

Identify machine parts and pre-start checks and inspection procedures and carry out basic machine maintenance for needlepunch machines.

Identify and adjust needlepunch machine settings such as automatic clock counter, machine alarms, sensors, machine roller settings and machine speeds which are within operator control.

Load the specified raw materials as per standard operating procedure onto needlepunch machines.

Identify and record information on production documentation for traceability purposes during needlepunch production processes.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Describe and apply the procedures for activating machine controls and starting and stopping needlepunch machines.

Doff the completes roll of needlepunch product adhering to all safety and documentation procedures.

Describe and timeously attend to needlepunch machine stoppages and factors affecting machine efficiency.

Ensure the availability of the raw materials throughout the process for machine optimisation.

Apply safety and environmental company procedures when operating needlepunch machines.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Demonstrate the corrects patrolling sequence of the needlepunch machine and process and describe the consequences of incorrect patrolling sequence.

Identify and attended to types of needlepunch machine and process deviations.

State tthe purpose of calibrating the measuring tools and equipment for needlepunch machines.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Identify needlepunch product faults and possible causes and describe and take corrective action.

Check and regularly inspect the needlepunched product for faults during the production process and take necessary corrective action on all quality deviations for needlepunch machine.

Monitor and inspect the needlepunch product at exit point for quality deviations and take necessary corrective action.

Achieve and explain the quality standards and customer requirements of needlepunched products.

Demonstrate active participation in quality change activities as per standard operating procedures.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Compliance with health and safety procedures and environmental practices relevant to needlepunch machines and production processes is achieved.

The importance of adhering to safety rules and regulations related to the operation of needlepunch production machines and usage of tools and equipment is justified.

Housekeeping and waste control procedures applicable to needlepunch machines are conducted.

The consequences of not adhering to housekeeping and waste control procedures and environmental practices and not keeping proper record are reasoned.

Production information and data are recorded in appropriate document for needlepunch production processes.

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 external integrated summative assessment.

Integrated Summative Assessment:
An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality Partner is required for the issuing of the qualification. The external summative assessment will focus on the exit level outcomes and associated assessment criteria.

The external summative assessment will include:

Practical demonstration as a phase test at an approved workplace by an assessor registered by the AQP.

Moderation of the work experience by a registered moderator registered by the AQP.

External integrated summative assessment (oral or written) conducted at accredited assessment centres or registered assessment sites and evaluated by an assessor registered by the AQP.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The Elementary Certificate: Non-woven Needlepunch Production Machine Operator was compared with a selection of units from the New Zealand National Certificate in Textiles Manufacturing (Operations) (Level 2) and the Australian Certificate II in Technical Textiles and Non-Wovens.

New Zealand
This qualification is pitched at Level 2 with 40 credits and is aimed at preparing people for employment as machine operators in textile manufacturing industry. It is structured to include units in all strands of the textile manufacturing industry, with compulsory units aimed at core yarn processing information and skills which are then combined with a selection from elective units which are specific to the textile sub-sector in which the learner will seek employment. No entry requirements are specified. Mast Academy offers training.

The compulsory section of the qualification covers aspects such as safe working practices and a general knowledge of textile manufacturing operations, processes, and products. The elective section pertaining to the Elementary Certificate: Non-woven Needlepunch Production Machine Operator includes aspects related to demonstrate knowledge of the blend preparation process and equipment; prepare and blend fibre; identify and fix operational and product faults; and keep the machine and work area clean. Units with more specific skills include:

Prepare fibre blend for non-woven production.

Produce bonded non-woven product from batting.

Produce carded batting for non-woven production.

Describe the processes and machinery used and carry out mechanical needling operations from batts.

Describe the process of and produce stentered non-woven textiles with and without latex.

Differences
The structure of the two qualifications is quite different. The New Zealand Unit Standards group the blending, bonding, carding, needling and structuring separately whilst the South African qualification integrates the occupational tasks of Pre-Needling and Needling and/or Structuring into one Part Qualification and Thermo-Bonding into the second Part Qualification. The duration of the New Zealand National Certificate in Textiles Manufacturing (Operations) (Level 2) is shorter, which can be accounted for by the fact that no workplace modules are included, neither are the practical and knowledge components separated as is the case with the Elementary Certificate.

Similarities
Both qualifications are at Level 2.

Australia
The Australian Certificate II in TCF Production Operations is structured into sections which include a compulsory section and elective units from various categories. Entry requirements are not specified. Credits are not specified. Compulsory units include aspects related to safety in the workplace, quality and environmental sustainability and generic information on the textile industry. This qualification is offered by the Australian College of Training Pty Ltd. Units which relate more specially to the non-woven manufacturing are:

Undertake web bonding process.

Undertake web conversion and finishing.

Undertake fibre blending and feeding for nonwoven technical production processes.

Monitor process capability.

Similarities
These units cover the skills needed for initial start-up and product changeovers of spun bond web forming machines, including machine settings, first-off runs and adjustments referring to web forming operations such as: Prepare for or set up web forming operations, load materials, check specifications, monitor web forming process, check web formed quality, shift hand-over, operate machinery, machine cleaning and maintenance, working in a team, comply with health and safety waste control, housekeeping and standard operating procedures in the workplace, conform to production and quality standards, completion of administrative records, communication with supervisors and so forth, which is similar to the content of the Elementary Certificate. Both qualifications are at Level 2.

Differences
Neither the credits nor notional hours of the Australian Certificate II in Technical Textiles and Non-Wovens are specified, thus no comparison could be conducted. The Australian Certificate II in Technical Textiles and Non-Wovens is divided into compulsory and elective units. The Elementary Certificate: Non-woven Needlepunch Production Machine Operator contains only compulsory modules. The Elementary Certificate: Non-woven Needlepunch Production Machine Operator contains work experience modules, and the practical and theoretical components are separated. This is not the case with the Australian qualification.

Conclusion
The contents of these qualifications regarding the skills and knowledge needed by an operator of a non-woven machine are similar and cover non-woven contexts and processes. It can be concluded that the South African qualification is on par with international qualifications.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Occupational Certificate: Tufting Machine Operator; NQF Level 02.

Vertical Articulation:

National Certificate: N3: Tufting/Needlepunch Mechanician; NQF Level 03.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

Qualifying for External Assessment:
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 QCTO website.

The curriculum title and code are: Non-woven Needlepunch Production Machine Operator: 715205-002-00-00.

Encompassed Trades:

This is not a trade qualification.

Assessment Quality Partner:

Fibre Processing and Manufacturing SETA.

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.

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