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 UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Conduct laboratory tests on plastic raw materials and manufactured products 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
119184  Conduct laboratory tests on plastic raw materials and manufactured products 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Plastics Manufacturing 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 
2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
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 unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
In order for me to perform effectively in the field of plastics manufacturing, I will be able to:
  • Sample, prepare and test materials and products to ensure that the quality of the product conforms to the supplied specifications or that problems are identified and communicated.

    I will also know and understand:
  • The importance of following test and data collection procedures and how this is achieved
  • The various types of tests, the properties they are testing for and how these relate to the manufacturing process, the design, specifications and end-use of the product.

    The activities reflected in this unit standard may not form part of my day-to-day activities. The knowledge and skills, however, enable me to understand the role and purpose of testing and to be able to respond to test results appropriately.
    I can be assessed against this unit standard in the context of any volume plastics manufacturing process, eg
  • Injection moulding
  • Blow moulding
  • Various kinds of extrusion
  • Variations of thermoforming
  • Rotational moulding
  • Calendaring
  • Compression and related moulding processes
  • Reaction injection moulding
  • Polymer composites fabrication processes such as pultrusion, filament winding and resin injection.
    The volume production process also includes the regeneration of recycled materials and the manufacture of intermediate products such as sheet, profiles, compounds and master batches.

    The skill, knowledge and values reflected in this unit standard form part of the exit level outcomes required for the National Certificate in Plastics Manufacturing NQF Level 4. 

  • LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    This unit standard has been designed to fit into a qualification as part of a progression. It is one of a series of unit standards for testing product in a manufacturing setting.

    The credits for this unit standard assume that I have a National Certificate in Plastics Manufacturing NQF Level 3 or an equivalent qualification. They also assume that I am working towards my qualification as part of a learning programme which integrates all the required unit standards.

    My learning time will increase if I do not have:
  • A relevant NQF 3 qualification
  • Experience in a relevant field

    My learning time will be decreased if I have experience in this field because:
  • My learning programme will be adjusted to build on what I already know
  • I can apply to have that prior learning recognised 

  • UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    The range of tests covered includes the testing of processing properties of raw materials and finished products. Tests may include tests for rheological properties, mechanical properties, thermal properties, electrical properties, chemical properties and ageing, and the long term behaviour of product. Activities will include comparing collected data with the supplied specifications. The focus is on making decisions related to conformance.
  • The scope and level of this unit standard is indicated by range statements related to the specific outcomes.
  • The learner should be able to work autonomously with minimal supervision. The work will be guided by relevant worksite procedures, manufacturers' specifications, standard test procedures and safety, health and environmental legislation. 

  • Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Determine test criteria from procedures manual and develop a testing schedule. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Tests conducted include tests to determine processing properties of raw materials, mechanical properties, thermal properties, electrical properties, chemical properties and ageing and the long term behaviour of product. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    See the consolidated assessment criteria for this unit standard which are listed under the last outcome. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    The assessment criteria for this unit standard have been consolidated to:
  • Facilitate integrated assessment, and
  • Ensure that the purpose of the unit standard as a whole is assessed (not just the component parts)
    Use the consolidated assessment criteria that are reflected under the last outcome to develop the assessment guides and assessment tools for this unit standard. 

  • SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Collect and verify samples and related information. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Samples and related information includes time of manufacture, material grade or batch numbers, cavity or mould numbers, machine number, product type, manufacturing process conditions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    See the consolidated assessment criteria for this unit standard which are listed under the last outcome. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    The assessment criteria for this unit standard have been consolidated to:
  • Facilitate integrated assessment, and
  • Ensure that the purpose of the unit standard as a whole is assessed (not just the component parts).
    Use the consolidated assessment criteria that are reflected under the last outcome to develop the assessment guides and assessment tools for this unit standard. 

  • SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Select appropriate test method and prepare the samples and the equipment for testing. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    See the consolidated assessment criteria for this unit standard which are listed under the last outcome. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    The assessment criteria for this unit standard have been consolidated to:
  • Facilitate integrated assessment, and
  • Ensure that the purpose of the unit standard as a whole is assessed (not just the component parts).
    Use the consolidated assessment criteria that are reflected under the last outcome to develop the assessment guides and assessment tools for this unit standard. 

  • SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Complete tests, interpret results, draw conclusions and compile reports. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Interpret results includes comparing to specification and identifying deviations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    See the consolidated assessment criteria for this unit standard which are listed under the last outcome. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    The assessment criteria for this unit standard have been consolidated to:
  • Facilitate integrated assessment, and
  • Ensure that the purpose of the unit standard as a whole is assessed (not just the component parts).
    Use the consolidated assessment criteria that are reflected under the last outcome to develop the assessment guides and assessment tools for this unit standard. 

  • SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Care for test equipment, store samples and archive data. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    This activity includes:
  • Identify damaged or faulty equipment and take corrective action
  • Clean and store test equipment safely
  • Dispose of waste material
  • Maintain a clean and tidy work environment 

  • ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    See the consolidated assessment criteria for this unit standard which are listed under the last outcome. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    The assessment criteria for this unit standard have been consolidated to:
  • Facilitate integrated assessment, and
  • Ensure that the purpose of the unit standard as a whole is assessed (not just the component parts).
    Use the consolidated assessment criteria that are reflected under the last outcome to develop the assessment guides and assessment tools for this unit standard. 

  • SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Engage in discussions with other parties on issues related to the process of conducting laboratory tests on raw materials and manufactured products. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Conformance or non-conformance of materials or products is established. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Results achieved 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Evidence should reflect a three to four to five types of test and there should be evidence of having conducted the tests on a range of samples over time or with a variety of materials or products.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Report on results of testing and conclusions drawn is correct and accurate. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Problems are communicated to appropriate personnel. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Test equipment selected and prepared is relevant to task requirements. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Samples are prepared in accordance with test requirements. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Tests are done safely and consistently according to procedures. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Samples and data are disposed of according to procedures. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Indicator 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Discussions of issues demonstrate an understanding of the key concepts and principles related to the testing process and an understanding of how these relate to application in practice. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Assessment criterion type: Understanding confirmed 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Issues, key concepts and principles include:
  • Sample receiving and checking procedures
  • Testing methods and the testing process for each method
  • Test equipment used
  • Applicable theory
  • Reporting and documentation requirements
  • Sample storage procedures
  • Implications of not adhering to the sequence of activities and operations as described in the specific outcomes
  • Implications of poor testing and inaccurate data
  • The implications of making decisions inappropriate to the task
  • Issues and items critical to health safety and the environment
     


  • UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • To obtain credits I must be assessed. The assessment will be based on evidence that I produce. My assessment will be governed by the policies and guidelines of a relevant Education and Training Quality Assurance body (ETQA), which has jurisdiction over this field of learning. My assessor will be registered and have a plastics manufacturing qualification at NQF 5 or above. The policies and procedures of the relevant ETQA will also determine:
    > How my assessment is moderated
    > How I can appeal against the outcome of the assessment
  • Any institution or company which offers learning that will enable me to achieve the purpose of this unit standard must be accredited as a provider through the relevant ETQA.
  • My assessment against this standard should meet all the requirements of established principles. It should include practical assessment activities, which are appropriate to the contents of this unit standard. These activities should include an appropriate combination of self and peer assessment, practical and oral assessments, observations, etc.
  • I can be assessed in the language of my choice although if I have to report incidents or conditions to someone else, I will be assessed on my ability to report in the language commonly used in my working environment.
  • I will be assessed on all the specific outcomes, critical cross-field outcomes and essential embedded knowledge. The specific outcomes must be assessed in their own right, through oral and practical evidence. My assessment will not only be based on observation but also on other evidence which I compile into a portfolio of evidence. I cannot be assessed only through a written or oral test.
  • The specific outcomes and essential knowledge will be assessed in relation to each other. If I am able to explain the items which fall under the heading of essential embedded knowledge, but am unable to perform the specific outcomes, then I cannot be assessed as 'competent'. Similarly, if I am able to perform tasks described under the specific outcomes, but cannot explain or justify them in terms of the fundamental concepts, principles and practice relevant to the level of the unit standard that underpins my skill, then I cannot be assessed as 'competent'.
  • I will also be assessed on my ability to apply the principles and techniques related to the critical cross-field outcomes, not only in terms of what I can demonstrate, but also in terms of what I know and can discuss.
  • My assessment for this unit standard can be done in conjunction with the assessment of other unit standards related to a qualification, and even in conjunction with my assessment for the qualification as a whole. 

  • UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    Names and functions of:
  • Testing equipment
  • Different test types
  • Materials
  • Test techniques
  • Test protocols and standards

    Purpose of:
  • Testing manufactured products and raw materials
  • Preparing samples
  • Prioritising
  • Documents related to testing
  • Test protocols and standards

    Attributes, descriptions, characteristics and properties:
  • Product sample, size, nature, type
  • Raw material properties
  • Various forms of material and product specification
  • Various kinds of quality and test standards and protocols, eg ASTM, DIN, ISO

    Processes and events:
  • Sampling
  • Testing
  • Recording, processing and analysis of data
  • Maintenance
  • Power failures

    Causes and effects, implications of:
  • Not being aware of critical points in test where mistakes could be made or results become inaccurate
  • Effects of incorrect labelling of test samples
  • Possible problem areas
  • Information gathering and analysis
  • Inaccuracy of data and analysis
  • Implications of incorrect use of testing equipment and not following testing procedures accurately
  • Effects of chemicals, dust and poor workplace practices on health and safety

    Procedures and techniques:
  • Sampling and testing
  • Information gathering
  • Statistical techniques
  • Identifying problems
  • Procedures for ensuring safety and limiting damage
  • Procedures for evaluating test results

    Sensory cues:
  • Sensory cues (what I see, hear, smell, feel) used to identify problems during material and product testing

    Regulations, legislation, agreements, policies, standards:
  • Applicable safety, health and environmental protection legislation
  • Applicable company policies and procedures
  • Quality standards and test specifications, eg ASTM, DIN, ISO

    Theory: rules, principles, laws:
  • Related mathematical and scientific rules, principles and laws
  • Sampling and testing principles
  • Principles of problem identification, data analysis
  • Health, safety and environmental impacts
  • Chemical composition, structure of polymers and various type of polymer

    Categories:
  • Of tests
  • Of materials and product properties
  • Of samples

    Relationships, systems:
  • The relationship between the properties of the product/material tested and the final use of that product/component
  • Relationship of accurate testing on product quality and customer relations and users of the final product
  • Relationship between international standards on workplace practices 

  • UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
  • Recognise and respond to problems while testing
  • Recognise and respond to problems indicated by test results 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Interact with others in the course of sampling and testing. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    According to procedures, following regular, consistent, precise, methodical work patterns. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
  • Collect sensory and numeric information from the testing process
  • Classify the test results and identify deviations from the norm 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Record and document all activities related to the testing process. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Apply and explain the theory related to testing manufactured products and raw materials. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Explain the relationship between the properties of product/material tested and the final use of that product. 

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    My assessor will be registered and have a plastics manufacturing qualification at NQF 6 or higher. In the absence of assessors with such qualifications, the ETQA can make interim arrangements. My assessor should also be active in the industry and be familiar with the materials, machinery, products and level of technology in which I have contextualised my skills and knowledge. 

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

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    N/A 

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  49451   Further Education and Training Certificate: Plastics Manufacturing  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  57898   Further Education and Training Certificate: Printing and Manufacture of Packaging  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2015-06-30  FPMSETA 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    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.