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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Certificate: Metals Production 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
64189  National Certificate: Metals Production 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Manufacturing and Assembly Processes 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
The individual Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary for each Learning Programme recorded against this qualification is shown in the table at the end of this report.  SFAP - Sub-framework Assignment Pending 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 
SAQA 091/21  2021-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

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
49018  National Certificate: Metals Production  Level 2  NQF Level 02  126  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

This Qualification is for any individual who is, or wishes to be, involved in a metals production environment. The Qualification contains all the skills, knowledge, values and attitudes required by a learner who needs mainly to be able to perform a range of activities within a specific metals production environment to support a particular process like extracting, melting, refining, casting, rolling, shearing, forging and other metallurgical processes. An individual acquiring this Qualification will be able to contribute towards the smooth and efficient operation of the production processes in the metals production sector.

The core component contains generic competencies covering, inter alia:
  • Health, safety and environment legislation and procedures.
  • Preparation and operation of support equipment.
  • Working in teams.
  • Role of the individual in a business or organisation.

    These competencies will enable the learner to work in different industries within the diverse production sector.

    The Qualification ensures progression of learning, enabling the learner to perform optimally within the metals production field of learning and provide access to a higher Qualification within the same or a related sector. The Qualification will facilitate access to, and mobility within, education and training for learners who:
  • Would like to achieve this Qualification through the process of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and/or formal study.
  • Wish to extend their range of skills and knowledge and hence their competencies in the metals production environment.

    The Qualification also intends to:
  • Release the potential of people.
  • Provide opportunities for people to explore different but related activities within the metals production sector.

    Rationale:

    Metals production can be defined as the processing of raw materials into metal products, including value adding processes. The metals production sector constitutes the following industries - iron and steel, aluminium, platinum, chrome, zinc, manganese and copper and is characterised by sophisticated processes. Companies within this sector operate in a global competitive and challenging environment. The products produced have to respond to a wide variety of customer requirements and safety, health, environmental, quality and risk management issues.

    This is an entry level Qualification - in a series of three qualifications. Typical learners will be persons who are currently working in a metals production environment who have not received any formal recognition for their skills and knowledge or for anyone wishing to follow a career in a ferrous or non-ferrous metals production working environment, in a variety of contexts.

    In terms of the learning pathway, the Qualification will allow this learner to progress from providing support functions at this level to that of a process operator within a metals production environment by completing the National Certificate: Metals Production at NQF Level 3. At this point s/he would be able to operate a furnace, for example. Subsequently the learner could become a process controller in the same environment by completing the FETC: Metals Production at NQF Level 4.

    South Africa has a very extensive and highly developed metals production sector. This sector employs a large number of people, is well-established and economically powerful. In terms of transformation in the country, learners will require skills and competencies to gain access to positions within management structures by completing other qualifications and training. It will be in the interest of the country and the sector to ensure that those who operate in the metals production environment are trained according to this Qualification to improve productivity and efficiency.

    This national Qualification and its related unit standards were developed to standardise the accreditation of learning programmes, resulting in improved quality management in terms of programme delivery.

    The National Certificate: Metal Production supports the objectives of the NQF in that it gives the learner access to a registered Qualification. It will ensure that the quality of education and training in the sub-field is enhanced and of a world-class standard. The Qualification will allow learners not only to develop their knowledge and skills in the metal production sector but will also enable them to benchmark their competencies against international standards. 

  • LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Learners wishing to study towards this Qualification are assumed to have:
  • Mathematical literacy at NQF level 1.
  • Communication at NQF level 1.
  • Engineering Science at NQF level 1 or equivalent.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This Qualification may be achieved in part (or whole) through the recognition of relevant prior knowledge and/or experience. The learner must be able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this Qualification. As part of the provision of recognition of prior learning providers are required to develop a structured means for the assessment of individual learners against the Unit Standards of the Qualification on a case-by-case basis. A range of assessment tools and techniques during formative and summative assessment procedures should be used which have been jointly decided upon by the learner and the assessor. Such procedures, and the assessment of individual cases, are subject to moderation by independent assessors. The same principles that apply to assessment of this Qualification also apply to recognition of prior learning.

    Learners may provide evidence of prior learning for which they may receive credit towards the Unit Standards and/or the Qualification by means of portfolios or other forms of appropriate evidence as agreed to between the relevant provider and relevant ETQA or ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding in place with the relevant ETQA.

    RPL is particularly important, as there are people in the metal production sector with a variety of skills and competencies of differing quality and scope. It is important that an RPL process be available to assist in making sense of existing competencies and skills, and helping to standardise these competencies and skills towards a common standard.

    Access to the Qualification:

    There is an open access to this Qualification, keeping in mind the "Learning Assumed to be in Place". 

  • RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The Qualification consists of a Fundamental, a Core and an Elective Component.

    To be awarded the Qualification learners are required to obtain a minimum of 120 credits as detailed below.

    Fundamental Component:

    The Fundamental Component consists of Unit Standards in:
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 2 to the value of 16 credits.
  • Communication at NQF Level 2 to the value of 20 credits.

    All Unit Standards in the Fundamental Component are compulsory.

    Core Component:

    The Core Component consists of Unit Standards to the value of 47 credits, all of which are compulsory.

    Elective Component:

    The Elective Component consists of two specialisation areas, each with its own set of Unit Standards. Learners are to choose one specialisation and choose Elective Unit Standards totalling a minimum of 37 credits from the Unit standards listed under that specialisation area so as to attain a minimum of 120 credits for this Qualification.

    Specialisation Area 1: Metal Production: (Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Industries) (Learning Programme ID 65189):

    Learners must choose Elective Unit Standards from the list below to give a minimum of 37 credits for the Elective Component:
  • ID 259722: Handle and care for prepared materials, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 252250: Apply fire-fighting techniques; Level 1, 3 Credits.
  • ID 119567: Perform basic life support and first aid procedures, Level 1, 5 Credits.
  • ID 259737: Complete finishing operations and dispatch product, Level 2, 12 Credits.
  • ID 253638: Sling and communicate during crane operations, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 242976: Operate overhead/gantry cranes, Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • ID 244365: Lift and move material and equipment by means of a forklift, Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • ID 115101: Address workplace hazards and risks, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 13217: Collect and use information, Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • ID 116932: Operate a personal computer system, Level 1, 3 Credits.
  • ID 259762: Demonstrate an understanding of HIV/Aids and its impact on the workplace, Level 2, 12 Credits (Reviewed)
  • ID 13221: Perform routine maintenance, Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • ID 12461: Communicate at work, Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • ID 12465: Develop a learning plan and a portfolio for assessment, Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • ID 9268: Manage basic personal finance, Level 2, 6 Credits.

    Total Number of Credits for Metal Production Electives: 85 Credits.

    Specialisation Area 2: Mining and Minerals (Learning Programme ID 65190):

    Learners must choose Elective Unit Standards from the list below to give a minimum of 37 credits for the Elective Component:
  • ID 259722: Handle and care for prepared materials, Level 2, 4 Credits (Reviewed)
  • ID 252250: Apply fire-fighting techniques; Level 1, 3 Credits.
  • ID 119567: Perform basic life support and first aid procedures, Level 1, 5 Credits.
  • ID 259737: Complete finishing operations and dispatch product, Level 2, 12 Credits (Reviewed)
  • ID 253638: Sling and communicate during crane operations, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 242976: Operate overhead/gantry cranes, Level 2, 5 Credits
  • ID 244365: Lift and move material and equipment by means of a forklift, Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • ID 115101: Address workplace hazards and risks, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 13217: Collect and use information, Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • ID 116932: Operate a personal computer system, Level 1, 3 Credits.
  • ID 259762: Demonstrate an understanding of HIV/Aids and its impact on the workplace, Level 2, 12 Credits (Reviewed)
  • ID 259690: Maintain the hearth and sidewall of a converter, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 259740: Maintain the paste level in an electrode casing, Level 2, 1 Credit.
  • ID 259717: Dry sulphur dioxide gas by means of absorption, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 256660: Generate hot gas, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 259719: Refine molten copper by means of oxygen and propanol blowing, Level 2, 10 Credits.
  • ID 259739: Hand sort material, Level 1, 2 Credits.
  • ID 252331: Remove airborne dust by means of a bag filter, Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • ID 259686: Produce anodes by means of a casting process, Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • ID 259682: Transfer an overhead crane by means of a transfer car, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 256667: Transfer material by means of pneumatic conveying system, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 256658: Straighten cathodes by means of a hydraulic press, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 259684: Maintain converter air flow by means of a tuyere punching process, Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • ID 259688: Pre-heat a refractory-lined vessel, Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • ID 259683: Heat up a ladle, Level 2, 7 Credits.
  • ID 259696: Produce copper rod by means of a roller mill process, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • ID 259692: Sample a vertical converter unit by means of a dip bar, Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • ID 259687: Remove anodes from a casting wheel by means of an anode take-off machine, Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • ID 259691: Clean gas by means of a dry electrostatic precipitator, Level 2, 4 Credits.

    Total Number of Credits for Mining and Minerals Electives: 135 Credits. 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    Qualifying learners will be able to:

    1. Perform support functions and activities in the metal production process.

    2. Identify and respond to minor maintenance and operational problems related to the performance of support functions and activities.
  • Outcome Note: Maintenance refers to minor maintenance performed by operations personnel not qualified as artisans.

    3. Demonstrate an understanding of Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental standards in the workplace.

    4. Explain the individual's role in business and teamwork development.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    Identify and solve problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made when:
  • Engaging in post-production processes and finishing operations.
  • Maintaining stock levels.
  • Maintaining the production process.
  • Interpret and act in emergency situations.
  • Applying safety, health and environmental principles and procedures.
  • Monitoring material flow and consumption of consumables and making adjustments.

    Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, community to:
  • Ensure that the post-production processes and operations runs smoothly and efficiently and problems are dealt with appropriately.
  • Ensure that the production process continues uninterrupted.
  • Accept, interpret and delegate work instructions correctly, when and if required, in an appropriate manner during an emergency.
  • Respond to SHE requirements.

    Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsively and effectively when:
  • Engaging in post-production processes and operations.
  • Dispatching products/components to customer or downline processes.
  • Maintaining stock levels.
  • Maintaining the production process.
  • Laying out materials.
  • Conforming to SHE requirements, according to specified requirements.
  • Interpreting production schedules.
  • Checking consumables, equipment and tools.
  • Operating equipment.
  • Monitoring material flow and consumption of consumables and making adjustments.

    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information to:
  • Solve problems during the post production process operations.
  • Identify hazardous material.
  • Apply safety, health and environmental principles and procedures.
  • Use personal protective equipment.
  • Interface with organisational structures and understand organisational procedures and concepts.
  • Solve problems by making adjustments.
  • Deal with changes and deviations.

    Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation to:
  • Report problems and incidents/occurrences.
  • Record outputs and measurements.
  • Prepare and maintain records.
  • Ensure the continuity of the production process.
  • Describe situations, conditions and incidents related to the use and processing of materials.

    Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and the health of others by:
  • Using the equipment according to manufacturer's instructions.
  • Adjust processes and procedures to suit different materials.

    Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation to:
  • Understand the impact of their or others` actions on health, safety, environment and productivity.
  • Explain the relationship and interfaces between the individual and the organisation. 

  • ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit level outcome 1:
  • Equipment is prepared and operated according to standard operating procedures.
  • Equipment is used in a manner that ensures the safety of all in the metal production environment.
  • Consumables required are checked according to quality assurance requirements.
  • Activities relevant to the production process are performed according to standard operating procedures.
  • Quality requirements are complied with according to standard operating procedures.
  • Basic mathematical principles and techniques are applied while performing the tasks related to metals production activities.
  • Oral and written communication is maintained and adapted as required to promote effective interaction in a metals production context.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit level outcome 2:
  • The problem is identified, rectified and/or reported according to standard operating procedures.
  • Minor maintenance is performed and reported according to standard operating procedures.
  • Tools, auxiliary services and equipment are identified and used in resolving problems and performing maintenance.
  • Quality, safety and environmental procedures are applied to the maintenance procedure.
  • Mathematical calculations are utilised for the solution of common operational problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit level outcome 3:
  • Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental principles are explained in accordance with workplace requirements.
  • The impact of risks and hazards are explained and preventative measures are applied in order to minimise/eliminate risks/hazards in metal production activities.
  • Policies and procedures relevant to quality and risk management in the metal production environment are applied to eliminate or reduce danger and risk.
  • Emergencies arising from production operation are managed according to standard operating procedure.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit level outcome 4:
  • The rights of an employee within the workplace are explained in terms of responsibilities and obligations.
  • Organisational structures, values, procedures and concepts are explained so that the differences between these aspects are clarified.
  • The functions of the business are described in terms of the metal production environment.
  • Conditions of employment, disciplinary and grievance procedures are described to ensure that the legislation governing these aspects is understood.
  • Individual and team performance standards are maintained through working together.

    Integrated assessment:

    The importance of integrated assessment is to confirm that the learner is able to demonstrate applied competence (practical, foundational and reflexive) and ensure that the purpose of this Qualification is achieved. Both formative and summative assessment methods and strategies are used to ensure that the Exit Level Outcomes and the purpose of the Qualification are achieved through achieving the Unit Standards. Learning, teaching and assessment are inextricably linked.

    Learning and assessment should be integrated and assessment practices must be fair, transparent, valid and reliable. A variety of assessment strategies and approaches must be used. This could include tests, assignments, projects, demonstrations and/or any applicable method. Evidence of the acquisition of competencies must be demonstrated through the Unit Standards, which enhance the integration of theory and practice as deemed appropriate at this level.

    Formative assessment is an on-going process which is used to assess the efficacy of the teaching and learning process. It is used to plan appropriate learning experiences to meet the learner's needs. Formative assessments can include a mix of simulated and actual (real) practice or authentic settings. Feedback from assessment informs both teaching and learning. If the learner has met the assessment criteria of all the Unit Standards then s/he has achieved the Exit Level Outcomes of the Qualification.

    Summative assessment is concerned with the judgement of the learning in relation to the Exit Level Outcomes of the Qualification. Such judgement must include integrated assessment(s) which test the learners' ability to integrate the larger body of knowledge, skills and attitudes, which are represented by the Exit Level Outcomes. Summative assessment can take the form of oral, written and practical examinations as agreed to by the relevant ETQA.

    Integrated assessment must be designed to achieve the following:
  • An integration of the achievement of the Exit Level Outcomes in a way that reflects a comprehensive approach to learning and shows that the purpose of the Qualification has been achieved.
  • Judgement of learner performance to provide evidence of applied competence or capability.

    Assessors and moderators should make use of a range of formative and summative assessment methods. Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.

    Assessment should ensure that all specific outcomes, embedded knowledge and critical cross-field outcomes are assessed. The assessment of the critical cross-field outcomes should be integrated with the assessment of specific outcomes and embedded knowledge. 

  • INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This is the first in a series of three qualifications. In terms of the learning pathway, a learner has the opportunity to start at Level 2 and progress to Level 4 in the Metal Production environment. Hence, there is a duplication of competencies between the three qualifications; competencies acquired at Level 2 are used as a foundation to acquire other competencies at Level 3 and competencies acquired at Level 3 form the foundation for competencies at Level 4. It follows that the international comparability also reflects the overlap of the competencies.

    The following competencies are addressed by this qualification:
  • Prepare and operate equipment to support a production process.
  • Work in a team.
  • Apply safety, health and environmental principles and procedures in a workplace.
  • Demonstrate basic knowledge and understanding of emergency preparedness and response.
  • Identify, inspect, use, maintain and care for engineering hand tools.

    The following countries were chosen primarily for two reasons:
  • They are significant metal producing countries.
  • They have a substantial number of providers for this type of training.

    These are:
  • The United Kingdom.
  • India.
  • The United States.
  • Canada.
  • China and Japan.
  • New Zealand.
  • Australia.

    It must be noted that although India, for instance, is a significant metal producer, information on the training is severely limited. The websites of Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, Botswana, Zambia and Tunisia were checked, to no avail in terms of comparability purposes.

    United Kingdom:

    The UK metals sector (comprising those companies which make, process, distribute and recycle metals, or fabricate metals for construction or other products) supplies vital raw materials, precision products and complete building structures to the manufacturing, public and service sectors. Every year, the metals sector produces 14 million tonnes of steel, 1.2 million tonnes of castings and 500,000 tonnes of aluminium reclaims and processes 10 million tonnes of used or end-of-life metals a year. The metals market covers a diverse range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, engineering, retail, leisure and public buildings and bridges, oil and gas extraction, power generation, telecommunications, defence, orthopaedic medicine, rail, domestic appliances, furniture and packaging.

    Oxford Cambridge RSA Qualification Examination:

    The Oxford Cambridge RSA Qualification Examination in the United Kingdom provides a variety of vocational qualifications in many areas. They have designed a series of manufacturing qualifications (Diplomas) at Levels 1, 2 and 3 in Manufacturing and Product Design, for implementation in 2009. The draft unit titles of the UK Level 1 Diploma - which constitute the principal learning - have resonance with the competencies of the South African Level 2 qualification in Metal Production. Although the UK qualification is focussed on product design and is located primarily in the manufacturing environment, there are generic competencies that can be drawn upon for comparison purposes. Manufacturing and production are closely related but not identical.

    The draft unit titles are:
  • Introduction to manufacturing.
  • Dealing with customers and suppliers within a manufacturing business.
  • Introduction to working practices in manufacturing.
  • Manufacturing: Introduction to product design and development.
  • Manufacturing: Introduction to materials science.
  • Manufacturing a product.

    Assessment and Qualification Alliance ( AQA) and City & Guilds:

    Assessment and Qualification Alliance (AQA) is the UK's main provider of GCSEs and A levels. City & Guilds is well-known for vocational qualifications. It works closely with employers and industry bodies to ensure that its qualifications provide the benchmark standard for workplace skills and knowledge.

    The collaboration between AQA and C&G brings together the providers of qualifications in both fields to provide all the support needed to deliver them at one point of contact.

    AQA and C&G offer the Foundation Diploma in Engineering at Level 1 in the UK. As part of this course they offer a unit on 'Practical engineering and communication skills' which is offered in this qualification at NQF Level 2. Some of the competencies in this unit are similar to those in this qualification.

    The purpose of this unit is to introduce learners to the work of the Engineering sector. This unit will provide learners with the opportunity to develop Health and Safety awareness and will emphasise the importance of using safe working practices. This is a practically focused unit where learners will work with common materials and relevant tools and equipment to gain an understanding of how they can be used to make engineered products.

    One of the assessment criteria is that on Health and Safety standards.

    The learner can:
  • Consider the importance of Health and Safety requirements when working in an engineering environment by following:
    > Health and Safety at Work guidelines.
    > Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) guidelines.
    >The correct procedure when preparing for an engineering activity.
    > Safe working procedures in the workshop.
    > Written safety instructions and displayed notices.
  • Apply the appropriate Health and Safety requirements for workshop activities:
    > Identifying and eliminating hazards.
    > Checking all safety equipment.
    > Sourcing and confirming suitability of personal protective equipment (PPE).
    > Confirming process operating safety measures.

    National Standards Developed by Specialist Bodies:

    A variety of national standards developed by sector skills authorities in the United Kingdom has relevance for aspects of this qualification. Some of these bodies are Metal Processing and Allied operations (Metals Industry Skills & Performance Ltd), Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Petro-Chemicals Operations (Cogent) and others.

    Unit Title: Prepare for heating:

    This unit is about Preparing for heating to ensure the heating plant and equipment are ready to perform in an optimum manner. This involves ensuring:
  • That you receive and check incoming stock.
  • Convey and store stock safely in the designated area.
  • Select the appropriate stock according to the production schedule.
  • That discrepancies and defects are correctly dealt with.
  • You set up plant and equipment correctly.
  • Ensure stock is fed to the process at the appropriate rate.
  • Damaged and malfunctioning plant and equipment are dealt with.

    This unit is a suitable choice if one is working with reheating furnaces, soaking pits and batch and continuous annealing processes.

    This unit contains two elements:
  • Select and transfer stock for heating.
  • Prepare plant and equipment for heating.

    Unit Title: Carrying out finishing operations:

    This unit covers the skills and knowledge you will need to carry out finishing operations on materials or products which is used to either enhance its appearance, increase its protection or improve its safety properties.

    This unit on material finishing involves:
  • Using the correct equipment for the finishing operation.
  • Carrying out the finishing operation.
  • Monitoring the finishing operation.
  • Reporting problems to the appropriate person.
  • Completing any necessary documentation.
  • Working in ways which maintain the safety of yourself and others.

    India:

    India is a substantial producer of metals mainly steel. While websites for the many Indian steel companies provide much information, unlike in the UK they contain very little information on the kind of training and the respective levels at which the training that takes.

    The following information - pertinent to this qualification was obtained from the website of the National Institute of Secondary Steel Technology in India. Seminars/Workshops/Training/In-house Programmes are held on the following aspects:
  • Importance of Safety Training & Inspection in Induction Furnace units.
  • Heat Treatment.
  • Basic Metallurgy for Mill owners.
  • Safety for Industrial Handling.

    The United States:

    According to the websites of the American Iron and Steel Institute the education and training you need to work in the steel industry depends on the kind of job you want. Some companies prefer to hire high school or vocational school graduates for processing jobs. Most training is done on the job, however. Usually, workers start in unskilled jobs and learn by helping experienced workers. It takes up to four years to learn some of the most highly skilled jobs, such as those of blowers or rollers, but you may have to wait much longer for an opening in one of these positions. Steel companies often encourage their employees to take courses in subjects such as chemistry, physics, or metallurgy to upgrade their skills.

    To qualify for one of the maintenance trades such as those of machinists, millwrights, or pipe fitters, you usually have to serve a three- to four-year apprenticeship. Generally, apprentices are chosen from among high school or vocational school graduates already employed in the plant. To qualify for a job as an administrator or engineer, you usually need a bachelor's degree in the appropriate field. New professional employees often go through a formal training period in the plant before they are fully qualified.

    Advancement in plant jobs in the steel industry usually follows a set pattern. For example, a worker may start as a laborer and become a second helper, a first helper, and then a keeper before advancing to a job as a blast furnace blower. Companies usually consider such factors as experience and leadership ability when promoting workers into positions that require the supervision of other workers.

    The website of the United Steelworkers of America does not have any information regarding training in metals production at these levels.

    Canada:

    According to the Human Resources and Social Development Canada, in the primary metal industry most training is done on the job and does not involve the acquisition of formal certifiable skills. In recent years the steel division has made a major effort to increase levels of literacy and numeracy among its personnel. Much of this has been done through the Canadian Steel Trade and Employment Congress (CSTEC) which has developed a wide range of programs offered through secondary schools, community colleges, CEGEP's and, in some cases, through universities. CSTEC has also developed a distance learning initiative to teach basic skills. The levels at which training is done remains unspecified.

    While on-the-job training is the most common form of training in the primary metal industry, training is becoming increasingly formalised through the work of CSTEC. CSTEC has begun to develop standardised job descriptions for basic occupations in the industry and to design training packages in basic steel making practice.

    China and Japan:

    China is one of the world's biggest metals producers. Japan is a producer of steel. However, an intense internet search proved futile in terms of locating and obtaining information about training within the metal production at this level. In Japan, a search of the following steel producing companies yielded no results: Itoshu Corporation and Nippon Steel Corporation, the second largest steel producer in the world.

    New Zealand:

    The following Unit Standards are relevant to the competencies that will be acquired through this Qualification:
  • Standard Title: Sort and pack non-ferrous materials.
    > People credited with this unit standard are able to: separate non-ferrous from ferrous metals; maintain continuity of separator operations; and pack non-ferrous metals.
  • Standard Title: Demonstrate knowledge of the steel industry and its products.
    > People credited with this unit standard are able to describe New Zealand's steel industry, and New Zealand manufactured steel products.

    Australia:

    The following information has been taken from the National Training Information Service (NTIS) of Australia.

    The Certificate ll in Engineering: Production Technology has some resemblance to this Qualification.

    The following standards are relevant to this Qualification:
  • MEM13014A: Apply principles of occupational health and safety in the work environment.
  • MEM16007A: Work with others in a manufacturing, engineering or related environment.
  • MEM13001B: Perform emergency first aid.
  • MEM16006A: Organise and communicate information.
  • MEM15004B: Perform inspection.
  • MEM18001C: Use hand tools.

    In conclusion, a Qualification very similar to this one could not be found. At this level most countries seem to offer skills programmes. This Qualification is far more comprehensive in terms of the competencies it offers. 

  • ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This Qualification lends itself to both vertical and horizontal articulation possibilities.

    Horizontal articulation is possible with the following Qualifications:
  • ID 49402: National Certificate: Steel Tube and Pipe Manufacturing (Seamless Hot-Finished OR Welded OR Cold-Formed) at NQF Level 2.
  • ID 58781: National Certificate: Production Technology at NQF Level 2.
  • ID 58718: National Certificate: Metals Processing at NQF Level 2.
  • ID 59305: National Certificate: Mineral Processing at NQF Level 2.
  • Continuous Processes: Chemical Operations at NQF Level 2.

    Vertical articulation is possible with the following Qualifications:
  • ID 64190: National Certificate: Metals Production at NQF Level 3.
  • ID 58785: National Certificate: Production Technology at NQF Level 3.
  • ID 58719: National Certificate: Metals Processing at NQF Level 3.
  • ID 62769: National Certificate: Mineral Processing at NQF Level 3. 

  • MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this Qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, and Assurance (ETQA) Body.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this Qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the ETQA's policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation; in terms of agreements reached around assessment and moderation between ETQA's (including professional bodies); and in terms of the moderation guideline detailed immediately below.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the Qualification, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described both in individual unit standards, the integrated competence described in the Qualification and will include competence within core sales and the elective standards relevant to the economic sector.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this Qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 

  • CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    For an applicant to register as an assessor, the applicant needs:
  • A minimum of 2 (two) years' practical, relevant occupational experience.
  • A relevant Qualification at NQF Level 3 or higher.
  • To be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA. 

  • REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    This qualification replaces qualification 49018, "National Certificate: Metals Production", Level 2, 126 credits. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  116520  Apply safety, health and environmental principles and procedures in a workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Core  116533  Demonstrate basic knowledge and understanding of emergency preparedness and response  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Core  12466  Explain the individual`s role within business  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Core  10252  Identify, inspect, use, maintain and care for engineering hand tools  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Core  259721  Perform activities to support a metal production process  Level 2  NQF Level 02  20 
    Core  259720  Plan support activities in a metal production process  Level 2  NQF Level 02  10 
    Core  9322  Work in a team  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Fundamental  119463  Access and use information from texts  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Fundamental  9009  Apply basic knowledge of statistics and probability to influence the use of data and procedures in order to investigate life related problems  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Fundamental  7480  Demonstrate understanding of rational and irrational numbers and number systems  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Fundamental  9008  Identify, describe, compare, classify, explore shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional shapes in different contexts  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Fundamental  119454  Maintain and adapt oral/signed communication  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Fundamental  119460  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Fundamental  7469  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal and community life  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Fundamental  9007  Work with a range of patterns and functions and solve problems  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Fundamental  119456  Write/present for a defined context  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  252250  Apply fire fighting techniques  Level 1  NQF Level 01 
    Elective  259739  Hand sort material  Level 1  NQF Level 01 
    Elective  116932  Operate a personal computer system  Level 1  NQF Level 01 
    Elective  119567  Perform basic life support and first aid procedures  Level 1  NQF Level 01 
    Elective  115101  Address workplace hazards and risks  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259691  Clean gas by means of a dry electrostatic precipitator  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  13217  Collect and use information  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  12461  Communicate at work  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259737  Complete finishing operations and dispatch product  Level 2  NQF Level 02  12 
    Elective  259762  Demonstrate an understanding of HIV/AIDS and its impact on the workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  12 
    Elective  12465  Develop a learning plan and a portfolio for assessment  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259717  Dry sulphur dioxide gas by means of absorption  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  256660  Generate hot gas  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259722  Handle and care for materials  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259683  Heat up a ladle  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  244365  Lift and move material and equipment by means of a forklift  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259684  Maintain converter air flow by means of a tuyere punching process  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259690  Maintain the hearth and sidewall of a converter  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259740  Maintain the paste level in an electrode casing  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  9268  Manage basic personal finance  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  242976  Operate overhead/gantry cranes  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  13221  Perform routine maintenance  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259688  Pre-heat a refractory-lined vessel  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259686  Produce anodes by means of a casting process  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259696  Produce copper bar by means of a roller process  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259719  Refine molten copper by means of oxygen and propanol blowing  Level 2  NQF Level 02  10 
    Elective  252331  Remove airborne dust by means of a bag filter  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259687  Remove anodes from a casting wheel by means of an anode take-off machine  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259692  Sample a vertical converter unit by means of a dip bar  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  253638  Sling and communicate during crane operations  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  256658  Straighten cathodes by means of a hydraulic press  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  259682  Transfer an overhead crane by means of a transfer car  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  256667  Transfer material by means of pneumatic conveying system  Level 2  NQF Level 02 


    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.
     
    LP ID Learning Programme Title Originator Pre-2009
    NQF Level
    NQF Level Min Credits Learning Prog End Date Quality
    Assurance
    Functionary
    NQF Sub-Framework
    65189  National Certificate: Metals Production: Manufacturing and Engineering  Generic Provider - Field 06  Level 2  NQF Level 02  120     MERSETA  OQSF 
    65190  National Certificate: Metals Production: Mining and Minerals  Generic Provider - Field 06  Level 2  NQF Level 02  120     MQA  OQSF 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THESE LEARNING PROGRAMMES: 
    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.
     
    LP ID Learning Programme Title Accredited Provider
    65190  National Certificate: Metals Production: Mining and Minerals  1. IMPALA PLATINUM SERVICES LTD
    2. METSKILL PTY LTD
    3. PALABORA COPPER (PTY) LTD  



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