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: Blow Moulding Machine Setter 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
120017  Occupational Certificate: Blow Moulding Machine Setter 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - MERSETA 
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  278  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0522/24  2022-11-22  2025-12-31 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-31   2029-12-31  

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:
A Blow Moulding Machine Setter optimally sets-up blow moulding machinery and relevant auxiliary equipment to manufacture components according to specifications.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Set-up mould, tools, forming device and auxiliary equipment and processes to manufacture. quality plastic components.
  • Solve common problems to produce quality products to meet customer needs.
  • Interact with others to achieve manufacturing objectives.

    Rationale:
    This qualification is one of the specialised qualifications within the plastics manufacturing sector in South Africa. This qualification is designed for learners who specialise in Blow Moulding Machine setting within the plastics manufacturing sector. The qualification is aimed at both new entrants as well as learners who have been working within the plastics manufacturing industry. The process of RPL will be used to recognise knowledge and skills acquired by learners within their respective workplaces, in the past.

    Upon completion of the qualification, learners will be able to initiate and maintain plastics manufacturing processes by:
  • Setting-up mould, tools, forming device and auxiliary equipment and processes to manufacture quality plastic components.
  • Solving common problems to produce quality products to meet customer needs.
  • Interacting with others to achieve manufacturing objectives.

    This qualification will also provide learners with a foundation to pursue the other two (2) specialised qualifications, these being, Injection Moulding Machine Setter and Extrusion Machine Setter. Upon completion of all the three (3) specialised qualifications, subject to the summative assessment results, learners will be awarded the Plastics Manufacturing Machine Setter qualification.

    Upon completion this qualification, Blow Moulding Machine Setter, learners can advance their careers by taking higher level responsibilities within their respective organisations. The responsibilities include amongst others, team leader and supervisory positions.

    Learners who successfully complete this qualification can participate effectively in the plastic manufacturing industry, whether in small, medium, and large enterprises. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for Access to the Qualification
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    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 certifying a work experience record.

    Entry Requirements:
  • An NQF Level 1 qualification. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 714208-000-01-00-KM-06, Fundamentals of Plastic Technology, Level 2, 10 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-KM-07, Quality in the Manufacturing process, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-KM-08, Applied Mathematics NQF level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-KM-09, Plastics Material Science, Level 3, 10 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-KM-10, Basic Principles of Engineering, Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • 14208-000-01-00-KM-11, Plastic Technology, Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • 14208-000-01-00-KM-12, Plastic Technology as it applies to Plastic Manufacturing Processes, Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-KM-13, Monitoring and Maintenance of Plastics Production Process, Level 4, 6 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-KM-14, Plastics Technology, Level 4, 9 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-KM-15, Monitoring and Maintenance of Plastics Production Process, Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-KM-16, Basic Theory of Part Design, Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-KM-17, Basic Theory of Forming Device design, Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-KM-18, Fundamentals of Team leadership, Level 5, 4 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 91

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-01, Use Tools and Equipment for Plastics Manufacturing Machine Setting Process, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-03, Handle, Transport and Care for Mould, Tools, Forming Device and Auxiliary Equipment, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-06, Install and Remove Blow Mould and Auxiliary Equipment, Level 2,
    2 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-08, Handle and Store Materials and Perform Recycling Operations, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-10, Install and Remove Blow Moulding Machine and Auxiliary Equipment, Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-13, Shut-down Blow Moulding Machine and Auxiliary Equipment, Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-16, Start-up Blow Moulding Machine and Auxiliary Equipment, Level 3,
    3 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-18, Perform Routine Checks and Maintenance on Plastics Processing Equipment Level 4, 3 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-20, Set- up and Programme A Blow Moulding Machine and Auxiliary Equipment, Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-23, Shut-down Blow Moulding Machine and Auxiliary Equipment, Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-26, Monitor and Evaluate Blow Moulding Processes to Optimise Production Output, Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-28, Coordinate Maintenance on Machines, Equipment and Tools, Level 5, 12 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-PM-30, Perform Trials on Designated Mould, Tools, Forming Device and Material Without Setting Sheet For Blow Moulding, Level 5, 15 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 69

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-02, Handling, Transporting, And Caring for Mould, Tools, Forming Device and Auxiliary Equipment for Blow Moulding, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-05, Blow Mould Installation and Removal Process, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-07, Handling, Storing Materials and Performing Recycling Operations, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-09, Installing and Removing Mould, Tools Forming Device and Auxiliary Equipment for Blow Moulding, Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-12, Shutting-down Blow Moulding Machine and Auxiliary Equipment, Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-15, Starting-up Blow Moulding Machine and Auxiliary Equipment,
    Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-17, Performing Routine Checks and Maintenance on Plastics Processing Equipment, Level 4, 3 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-19, Setting-up and Programming Blow Moulding Machine and Auxiliary Equipment, Level 4, 6 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-22, Shutting-down the Blow Moulding Machine and Auxiliary Equipment, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-25, Monitoring and Evaluating Blow Moulding Processes to Optimise Production Output, Level 5, 30 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-27, Coordinate Maintenance on Machines, Equipment and Tools, Level 5, 16 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-29, Conducting Trials on Moulds, Tools, Forming Device and Materials for Blow Moulding, Level 5, 25 Credits.
  • 714208-000-01-00-WM-31, Exposure to the Value Chain in A Plastic Manufacturing Process, Level 5, 20 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 118 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Plan and prepare for plastic manufacturing process.
    2. Use applicable knowledge to install mould, tools, forming device and auxiliary equipment.
    3. Safely set up, program, start up, optimise, and shut down the machine and auxiliary equipment.
    4. Demonstrate the removal of mould and forming device.
    5. Conduct operational maintenance inspections and record on machines and auxiliary equipment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Obtain, read and understand documentation.
  • Adhere to Health and Safety requirements.
  • Select hand tools and measuring equipment and prepare work area.
  • Identify materials and additives according to production requirements.
  • Prepare materials according to specifications.
  • Blend materials according to the formulations.
  • Clean blending equipment after use.
  • Load blended materials into the hopper.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Identify the corrects mould, tools and forming device according to the relevant documentation.
  • Inspect, safely handle, and transport mould, tools and forming device to machine.
  • Lift and secure mould, tools and forming device to the machine.
  • Connect services.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Perform pre-start up checks and test all safety devices.
  • Safely set up machine and auxiliary equipment according to material, mould and forming device specifications to establish baseline parameters.
  • Start up machine and auxiliary equipment.
  • Monitor manufacturing process and inspect and test the quality of the plastic product to achieve optimum parameters.
  • Indicate factors to be considered in optimising the process parameters.
  • Shut down machine and auxiliary equipment.
  • Purge and empty machine barrel.
  • Weigh, label and return unused raw materials to storage area.
  • Perform housekeeping on the machine and work area.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Disconnect services.
  • Remove mould, tools and forming device.
  • Inspect, safely handle, and transport mould, tools and forming device to the appropriate storage area.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Inspect pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical components for worn or damage parts and record actions to be taken.
  • Identify and record safety issues.

    Integrated Assessment:
    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. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The South African Blow Moulding Machine Setter qualification is one of the specialised qualifications within the plastics manufacturing sector. This qualification was compared to qualifications offered in New Zealand, Ireland, and Australia because of comparability regarding National Qualifications Frameworks.

    New Zealand
    The New Zealand Qualifications Authority has registered several Plastics Processing qualifications ranging from NQF Level 1-4. These qualifications are clustered as: The National Certificate in Plastics Processing Technology, the National Certificate in Plastics Processing Technology (Production) and the National Certificate in Plastics Processing Technology (Technical).

    Extrusion Blow Moulding was found to be one of the 'strands or areas of specialisations found in all the three qualifications mentioned above. Learners who pursue this strand, are exposed to the generic core unit standards that cover quality assurance, plastics materials, health and safety requirements and engineering skills. In addition to these, learners are required to choose unit standards related to their workplace specifics. In this case, Extrusion Blow Moulding related unit standards. The remainder of credits will be derived from other elective unit standards of their choice.

    Upon completion of their learning regarding this strand, learners will be able to:
  • Control and trial the extrusion blow moulding process for a simple extrusion blow mould.
  • Service a die head for extrusion blow moulding.
  • Set up and start up an extrusion blow moulding machine to run advanced or complex moulds.

    Credits allocated to each of these unit standards range between 6 - 12. There is an open entry into NQF level 2 Plastics Manufacturing related qualifications. However, the attainment of an NQF level 2 qualification is a requirement for further learning towards higher level plastics related qualifications.

    The South African Blow Moulding Machine Setter qualification compares to the New Zealand plastics related qualification of National Certificate in Plastics Processing Technology (Technology, Production and Technical) in terms of the generic content covered, i.e., knowledge and skills, Health, Safety and Environmental requirements; raw materials, tools, and equipment; quality requirements and manufacturing processes.

    Similarities have also been found with unit standards that are specific to the Extrusion Blow Moulding 'strand'.

    In both instances, learners who successfully complete these qualifications will operate in a sector of their choice within the plastics manufacturing industry.

    Ireland
    Extrusion Blow Moulding qualification is one of the Plastics Manufacturing related qualifications found on the European Qualifications Framework. This qualification is pegged at NQF level 5, with 120 credits.

    This qualification can be obtained on a full time or a part time basis. Learners on a full-time basis can complete the qualification over a period of a year, whilst those on a part time basis, can take two years to complete. The duration of each module is between 4 to 6 weeks.

    Some of the modules found in the Extrusion Blow Moulding qualification include amongst others: plastic material selection and processing, product process validation, blow moulding process optimization, blow moulding process validation, blow mould machine setting. Elective modules include amongst others: plastic part design and essential mould design.

    Similarities
    Similarities between the South African Blow Moulding Machine Setter and the Plastics Manufacturing Machine Setter qualifications and those qualifications offered in the countries compared to, were found to be in relation to the core competencies covered in the core modules. Competencies covered in modules for the Extrusion Blow Moulding 'strand' levels at which the New Zealand unit standards as well as the qualifications are pegged make provision for areas of specialization within the South African context and in terms of 'strands' in other countries. Lastly, learners who successfully complete the qualifications or modules will be expected to operate in a specific workplace of their choice within the plastics industry.

    Differences
    Differences have been noted in terms of the design or packaging of the South African Blow Moulding Machine Setter qualification. Within the South African context, this is a specialised qualification within the plastics manufacturing sector. Although learners will be awarded this qualification upon completion, they will not be awarded the artisan status before completing all the modules for the other two (2) specialised qualifications (Injection Moulding Machine Setter and Extrusion Machine Setter) and proving competence in the Trade test.

    Differences have also been noted in the credits allocated to individual qualifications. The South African Blow Moulding Machine Setter qualification has 279 credits because of the inclusion of NQF level 2, 3 and 4 modules or learning units in the qualification. This is higher compared to credits of qualifications offered in other countries where the entry level is higher, i.e., NQF level 3.

    Differences have also been noted with regards to the learning duration. The South African Blow Moulding Machine Setter qualification is offered over a period of three (3) years. This allows progression from lower-level learning programmes, that is, from NQF level 2 to the ultimate exit level which is pegged at NQF level 4. Whereas in New Zealand and Ireland, learners exit each qualification upon completion.

    The Ireland qualification is pegged at NQF level 5 whilst the South African Blow Moulding Machine Setter qualification is pegged at NQF Level 4.

    Conclusion
    On comparison in the South African Blow Moulding Machine Setter qualification covers competencies which are contained in plastics manufacturing related qualifications offered in other countries. It is therefore concluded that the Blow Moulding Machine Setter qualification compares favourably to qualifications offered in other countries. 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Occupational Certificate: Injection Moulding Machine Setter, NQF Level 4
  • Occupational Certificate: Extrusion Machine Setter, NQF Level 4

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Plastics Manufacturing Machine Setter, NQF level 5
  • National Certificate: Plastics Manufacturing, NQF level 5 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    To qualify for the external summative assessment learners must have a copy of a completed and signed Statement of Work Experience as well as proof of successful completion of the all the knowledge and practical skill modules including the Foundational Learning Competence.

    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 Blow Moulding Machine Setter: 714208-000-01-01

    Encompassed Trades:
    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
  • None

    Assessment Quality Partner:
  • National Artisan Moderating Body (NAMB) 
    		•

    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.