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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Sheetfed Lithography Technician 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
96363  Occupational Certificate: Sheetfed Lithography Technician 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - FPMSETA (MAN) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
QCTO - Quality Council for Trades and Occupations  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  377  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2018-07-01  2025-12-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30   2029-12-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Sheetfed Lithography Technician. A Sheetfed Lithography Technician sets up, operates and maintains sheetfed lithographic printing presses to print specified printing jobs on substrates such as paper, paperboard, vinyl, metal and plastic.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Perform pre-make-ready and make-ready operations for a printing production run.
  • Run a printing press to produce printed material according to customer specifications and set quality standards.
  • Perform preventative and routine maintenance operations on printing presses and auxiliary equipment and machinery.
  • Apply safety, health and environmental protection best practices and procedures for a printing environment.

    Rationale:
    The Printing Industries Federation of South Africa has engaged with the printing industry to address the concerns regarding the competitiveness of the industry against international markets, during which the Sheetfed Lithography Technician was identified as a scarce and critical skill in the industry.

    The current qualification for the Sheetfed Lithographer is outdated and does not meet the requirements for a trade qualification in terms of the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations and the National Artisan Moderation Body. The lack of such quality training and education has placed the sector in a precarious position in so far as international competitiveness is concerned not to mention the devastating impact that the increasing scarcity of skills has had on the sector.

    Benefits to the learner:
    Learners will receive a high standard of training and education that is occupationally aligned. Once qualified, learners will be able to further their education and will be able to obtain access to industry related management programmes available in the Printing and Packaging sector.

    Benefits to the employer:
    Printing and Packaging employers will gain access to suitably qualified artisans to operate and maintain costly printing presses.

    Benefits to society and economy:
    By creating career pathways in the sector, employees will be able to progress from general factory workers to qualified Artisans. This will create a healthy employment cycle providing employment opportunities to unemployed youth.

    Possible Employment:
    By obtaining a trade qualification, learners will secure employment in the sector and open themselves up to career advancement opportunities.
    Industry indications are that over 600 apprentices should be trained on a national basis to meet the artisan replenishment needs of the sector. The current number of apprentices being trained nationally has fallen well short of this indicator over the last number of years.
    Paper making, waste efficiency and recycling are subjects covered in this curriculum. The efficient and responsible use of paper and other materials is of critical importance to the sector as it forms a significant component of print manufacturing costs within a green economy. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.

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

    Entry Requirements:
  • NQF Level 1 with Mathematics or ABET 4. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill Modules:
    Knowledge Modules:
  • 662204000-KM-01, Printing Technology for Sheetfed Lithography, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 662204000-KM-02, Industry Studies for Sheetfed Lithography, NQF Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 662204000-KM-03, Printing Science for Sheetfed Lithography, NQF Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • 662204000-KM-04, Quality Studies for Sheetfed Lithography, NQF Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 662204000-KM-05, Safety, Health, Environment and Risk Requirements for Sheetfed Lithography, NQF Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 662204000-KM-06, Printing Technology for Sheetfed Lithography, NQF Level 3, 12 Credits.
  • 662204000-KM-07, Printing Science for Sheetfed Lithography, NQF Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • 662204000-KM-08, Printing Quality Studies for Sheetfed Lithography, NQF Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • 662204000-KM-09, Printing Economics and Calculations for Sheetfed Lithography, NQF Level 3, 10 Credits.
  • 662204000-KM-10, Advanced Printing Technology for Sheetfed Lithography, NQF Level 4, 8 Credits.
  • 662204000-KM-11, Supervision and Communication Studies for Sheetfed Lithography, NQF Level 4, 10 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 87 Credits.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 662204000-PM-01, Conduct pre-make-ready and make-ready tasks for printing production jobs, NQF Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • 662204000-PM-02, Assist with running a sheetfed lithographic printing press to produce printed products and maintain press operations, NQF Level 2, 9 Credits.
  • 662204000-PM-03, Assist with performing preventative and routine maintenance operations on printing presses and auxiliary equipment and machinery, NQF Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 662204000-PM-04, Comply with safety, health and environmental protection best practices and procedures for a printing environment, NQF Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • 662204000-PM-05, Perform pre-make-ready and make-ready functions in order to achieve pass sheets for single colour printing jobs, NQF Level 3, 24 Credits.
  • 662204000-PM-06, Monitor and maintain optimum press operations for single colour printing, NQF Level 3, 19 Credits.
  • 662204000-PM-07, Perform preventative and routine press maintenance on a printing press according to prepared schedules, NQF Level 3, 9 Credits.
  • 662204000-PM-08, Facilitate communication between workers and management and delegate tasks to achieve productivity and quality objectives, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.
  • 662204000-PM-09, Perform pre-make-ready and make-ready functions in order to achieve pass sheets for multi-colour printing jobs, NQF Level 4, 24 Credits.
  • 662204000-PM-10, Monitor and maintain optimised press functions in order to produce quality printed multiple colour sheets, NQF Level 4, 24 Credits.
  • 662204000-PM-11, Maintain a printing press and auxiliary equipment in the total process flow of a printing job in the plant, NQF Level 4, 14 Credits.
  • 662204000-PM-12, Facilitate corrective disciplinary measures to ensure the good performance and behaviour of subordinate team members, NQF Level 4, 4 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 141 Credits.

    This qualification also requires the following Work Experience Modules:
  • 662204000-WM-01, Pre-make-ready and make-ready operations, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 662204000-WM-02, Printing production operations on printing presses, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 662204000-WM-03, Maintenance operations on printing presses and auxiliary equipment and machinery, NQF Level 2, 13 Credits.
  • 662204000-WM-04, Workplace health, safety and environmental best practices, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 662204000-WM-05, Single colour pre-make-ready and make-ready operations, NQF Level 3, 10 Credits.
  • 662204000-WM-06, Optimum printing press operations for single colour printing, NQF Level 3, 12 Credits.
  • 662204000-WM-07, Routine and preventative printing press maintenance operations, NQF Level 3, 11 Credits.
  • 662204000-WM-08, Development of subordinate team members' skills and knowledge, NQF Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • 662204000-WM-09, Multi-colour pre-make-ready and make-ready operations, NQF Level 4, 17 Credits.
  • 662204000-WM-10, Optimum printing press processes for multi-colour printing, NQF Level 4, 23 Credits.
  • 662204000-WM-11, Preventative and routine maintenance operations for press readiness, NQF Level 4, 20 Credits.
  • 662204000-WM-12, Team supervision for the achievement of production targets, NQF Level 4, 13 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 149 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Perform pre-make-ready operations for full colour print production.
    2. Perform make-ready operations for print production.
    3. Run a sheetfed lithographic printing press to produce printed material according to set quality, productivity and safety standards and to customer specifications.
    4. Perform preventative and routine maintenance operations on printing presses and auxiliary equipment and machinery.
    5. Demonstrate an understanding of the theory underpinning the printing competencies and printing practices.
    6. Conduct pre-make ready and make ready tasks for a printing production job.
    7. Assist with running a sheetfed lithographic printing press to produce printed products, and maintaining the press.
    8. Assist with performing preventative and routine maintenance operations on printing presses and auxiliary equipment and machinery.
    9. Comply with safety, health and environmental protection best practices and procedures for a printing environment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Work ticket and the correct resources for print production are obtained and accurately interpreted.
  • Stack or stillage for loading is properly prepared.
  • Printing plates for mounting are properly prepared.
  • Dampening solution, conductivity and pH is measured and mixed (if applicable).
  • Availability of spare resources and components are verified.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Substrate in the feeder is correctly loaded and positioned.
  • Specific substrate to accept the feeder is correctly set.
  • Sheet transport mechanisms according to the substrate are set.
  • Delivery is correctly set to accept the specific substrate.
  • Plates on each printing unit are correctly mounted.
  • Printing blanket is replaced.
  • Ink and dampening rollers are checked and set to specification.
  • Ink ducts are filled and set according to printing plate zonal requirements.
  • Make-ready operations are performed and a pass sheet is obtained.
  • A pass sheet is obtained for the colour and quality of the make-ready matches in accordance to the original proof or sample and is completed within a specified time and with a minimum of waste.
  • The necessary equipment is used for the make-ready operations within the approved standard.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Quality inspections using the correct measurement equipment for the specific area of quality are performed.
  • Printed substrates are pulled and inspected from the press for print-related defects.
  • Colour control using colour control measurement devices such as the densitometer or spectrophotometer is exercised.
  • All process and product faults are detected and corrective measures are applied.
  • Data is recorded regarding quality control systems in operation during production.
  • Data is recorded regarding the production quantity produced.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Dampening roller is checked and reserted according to the manufacturer's procedure and specification.
  • Inking roller is checked and reset according to the manufacturer's procedure and specification.
  • Printing blanket according to the manufacturer's procedure and specification is checked and adjusted.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Trade related calculations are performed with 100% accuracy.
  • The necessary material for a production order is identified.
  • All trade related safety requirements are complied with.
  • Printing concepts and principles, and the production value chain are evaluated.
  • Various printing press configurations and machines are identified and the components and procedures for utilisation are described.
  • Trade related tools and equipment are identified and the procedures for utilisation are described.
  • Quality requirements for the printing industry are analysed.
  • The basic principles of productivity and team leadership are defined and evaluated.
  • The context of the printing industry and the up- and down-stream activities which will have an influence on the printed product are explained.
  • Lithographic printing technology concepts and maintenance requirements are described.
  • Basic scientific principles and the effect that chemistry has on the lithographic printing process are analysed.
  • Importance of quality management in a lithographic printing environment is evaluated.
  • Legal requirements and regulations related to health, safety and environmental aspects in the printing industry are defined.
  • Various components of a printing press are identified and pointed out.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • A work ticket is interpreted and an analysis of what the job entails is provided including the sequence and workflow of a printing job.
  • The sheet layout is determined according to the work ticket and printing press settings are identified accordingly.
  • Substrates, plates and ink are identified, safely handled and transported to the work station.
  • Substrates are loaded into the feeder using the correct technique.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • The printing press feeder is re-loaded during the run to maintain consistent substrate levels.
  • Printed substrate is unloaded from the delivery by using the machine appropriate methods.
  • Consistent ink duct levels are maintained during a production run.
  • Printing blanket wash-up is performed during a production run, using the correct technique, when required.
  • Full press wash up at the end of a production run is performed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Printing press rollers are deglazed and rejuvenated.
  • Journals and bearings are inspected and replaced using appropriate tools if necessary.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Waste treatment, disposal and recycling practices are applied.
  • Work practices, events or situations that could create unsafe working conditions are identified and responded to.
  • Chemicals are handled and stored according to Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) information.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated formative assessment:
    Skills development providers will use the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting (where applicable) to guide the formative assessment of the knowledge and practical skill modules. The theoretical knowledge can also be formatively assessed in the context of application of the practical component. The formative assessment provides the basis for an internal summative assessment which is captured as a statement of results. The statement of results for the required knowledge and practical skill modules is a prerequisite for access to 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 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 a trade test as prescribed under Section 26 D of the Skills Development Act and defined in the Trade Test regulations. It will be conducted through an evaluation of written and practical tasks covering critical aspects in a simulated environment at an assessment centre accredited by QCTO and conducted by an assessor registered by the National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB). The assessment will take place over a minimum of 2 days. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The existing trade qualification of Lithography (Paper Section), like all Competency Based Modular Training Programmes in the Printing, Newspaper and Packaging Industry, has been accredited by the City and Guilds of London. Apprentices who successfully complete their trade tests will automatically obtain a City and Guilds qualification.

    City and Guilds was chosen for international comparability purposes in light of the fact that they are the United Kingdom's leading provider of vocational qualifications. Technical Certificate in Machine Printing - Lithography (Theory)

    To achieve the Technical Certificate in Machine Printing - Lithography learners must complete all three compulsory Modules.

    Module: Working in the Communications Industry.
    Topics covered:
  • Health and Safety in the Work Place.
  • Hazards and Risks in the workplace.
  • Environmental Laws and Practices.
  • Effective Working Relationships.
  • Understanding Ethical and Employment Issues.
  • Printing Processes and Their Applications

    Productivity, quality and maintenance.
    Topics covered:
  • Quality Assurance and Quality Control.
  • Quality Assurance and Quality Control Systems.
  • Processes within DTP and Pre-Press.
  • Responsibilities for Maintenance.
  • Cleaning, Lubrication and Replacement.
  • Machine Faults and Rectification.
  • Safe Use of Chemicals and Disposal of Waste.

    Machine Printing Litho - Sheet Fed.
    Topics covered:
  • Printing Products and Printing Processes.
  • Types and Characteristics of Paper and Board.
  • Controlling Inking, coating and Drying Systems.
  • Properties, Structure and Manufacture of Materials.
  • Types of Proof.
  • Microprocessors and Computers.
  • Make-Ready and Operating Procedures.
  • Controlling Quality.

    In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

    Tasks Include:
  • Setting, adjusting and monitoring substrate-feed mechanisms, delivery mechanisms, inking systems and other printing machine functions.
  • Mixing ink and solvents to standard, and regulating paper and ink supply during print runs.
  • Monitoring, evaluating and determining press operations manually and by computer to check print quality standards against proofs and detect malfunctions.
  • Producing a variety of printed products using relief, lithographic, flexographic and gravure printing presses, and in-line finishing systems.
  • Preparing plates, blankets and impression cylinders on small offset lithographic printing presses.
  • Loading paper into feeding mechanisms.
  • Monitoring machine operations and quality of printing.
  • Undertaking maintenance, adjustment, repair and cleaning of machines.
  • Producing and managing digital print images, and transferring and outputting images.
  • May set up and operate paper and bookbinding guillotines.
  • The inking system (ink fountain and ink rollers).
  • The dampening system (water fountain and water rollers).
  • The plate cylinder.
  • The offset cylinder (or blanket cylinder).
  • The impression cylinder.

    Conclusion:
    The Sheetfed Lithography Technician qualification is comparable to the qualification chosen for comparison as the levels of skills and knowledge acquired by learners are similar. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
    Further Education and Training Certificate: Printing and Manufacture of Packaging, at NQF Level 4.

    Vertical Articulation:
    National Certificate: Printing and Manufacture of Packaging, at NQF Level 5. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

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

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    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.