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: 

Demonstrate an understanding of basic machine operations in a manufacturing and or packaging environment 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
12315  Demonstrate an understanding of basic machine operations in a manufacturing and or packaging environment 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Food 
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 3  NQF Level 03  7 
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
2026-06-30   2029-06-30  

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 
A person credited with this unit standard is able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of machine inputs and outputs.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the start-up procedures of a process machine.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of adjustments made to a process machine while in operation.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the shut-down procedures of process machine.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of production documentation.

    This unit standard is for anyone who works in a manufacturing or packaging environment and needs to understand and apply generic machine operating procedures on manufacturing or packaging equipment.

    This unit will contribute to the full development of the learner within the manufacturing and packaging environment by providing recognition, further mobility and transportability within the field of manufacturing and assembly. The skills, knowledge and understanding demonstrated within this unit standard are essential for social and economic transformation and upliftment within the manufacturing and processing environment. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Description of required skills:
  • Understanding of and use the number system.
  • Read and respond to a range of text types. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    The scope and context of this unit standard is for anyone works in a process production or packaging environment and needs to understand and apply generic machine operating procedures on process production or packaging equipment.

    The level assigned to this unit standard is appropriate because the process is moderate in range, established and familiar and offers clear choices of routine responses. The learning demand employs basic operational knowledge and readily available information. The application of this unit standard is to qualify the person for certification in sub-trades. 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Demonstrate an understanding of machine operations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    1. The input and output systems of a machine is identified according to generic machine functions. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Input systems refer to pneumatic, drive, hydraulic, electrical, safety and electronic systems. Output systems refer to transport and cooling. Input and output systems refer to filtering and heating/cooling systems.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    2. The purpose of conducting pre start up checks is explained according to generic safety and effectiveness principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    3. The purpose of conducting cleaning procedures before, during and after machine operations is explained according to standard production principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    4. The purpose and importance of machine lubrication is identified and explained according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    5. The importance of making adjustments to machines are explained according to operational and safety principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    6. The purpose of shutting down a machine is explained according to standard operating and safety principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    7. The purpose if keeping process records is explained according to standard operating and safety principles. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the start-up procedures of a process machine. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    1. Pre-start up checks are explained or simulated according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    2. Personal preparation is done according to standard operating procedures. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Personal preparation refers to practices that ensure hygiene, personal and product safety.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    3. The production schedule is interpreted within scope of work. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    4. The importance of preparing a work area explained according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    5. The preparation of equipment for production is explained according to standard operating procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Demonstrate an understanding of adjustments made to a process machine while in operation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    1. A made to a process machine during operation are explained according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    2. The adjustment of parameters to a process machine are controlled and recorded according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    3. Common adjustments problems are solved in line with standard operating procedures. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Problem solving includes:
  • Recognition of signs of problems.
  • Identification of common problems, their causes and methods for prevention.
  • Description of the consequences of the problem.
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the shut-down procedures of a process machine. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    1. The shutdown condition of the work area and equipment are explained according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    2. The principles and best practices of storing cleaning equipment and materials in designated areas are explained according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    3. Procedures of how waste should be handled during change over processes are explained according to standard operating procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Demonstrate an understanding of production documentation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    1. The importance of recording results is explained according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    2. The specifications for the machine operations are identified according to site-specific standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    3. Deviations from the specifications are explained according to standard operating principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    4. The potential causes of recording inaccurately are explained according to standard record keeping principles. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    5. The purpose of accurate documentation is explained according to standard operating and record keeping principles. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Internal moderation.
  • External moderation.
  • An assessor, accredited by the relevant ETQA, will assess the learner`s competency.
  • Assessment procedures will be supplied by the ETQA in alignment with NSB requirements.
  • All assessment activities must be fair, so that all candidates have equal opportunities. Activities must be free of gender, ethnic or other bias.
  • Assessment and moderation procedures, activities and tools must be transparent, affordable and support development within the field, sub-field and NQF.
  • Questions and answers to determine theoretical knowledge are expected.
  • Examination of an assessment portfolio.
  • Reporting skills are demonstrated by effective communication, using verbal (language) and/or writing skills.
  • Direct observation in simulated or actual work conditions.
  • Practical demonstration of machine operations.
  • This unit standard can be assessed with process control unit standards. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    Embedded knowledge is reflected within the assessment criteria of each specific outcome. 

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems in which response displays that responsible decisions, using critical and creative thinking, have been made.

    Evident in all Specific Outcomes. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.

    Evident in all Specific Outcomes. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage oneself and one`s activities responsibly and effectively.

    Evident in all Specific Outcomes. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.

    Evident in all Specific Outcomes. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively by using mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentations.

    Evident in all Specific Outcomes. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.

    Evident in all Specific Outcomes. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO CONTRIBUTING 
    Contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the society at large.

    Evident in all Specific Outcomes. 

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

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

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    Supplementary Information

    Legal requirements:
  • Applicable legislation for manufacturing and/or packaging environment.

    Definition of terms within this unit standard:

    Standard operating procedures
    Refer to company procedures, prescribed procedures from the manufacturer, personal and equipment safety procedures, good manufacturing practices, best practices, applicable legislation, time frames, recipes and specifications. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  57694   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Packaging Operations  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  59016   National Certificate: Fish and Seafood Processing  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  20508   National Certificate Food and Beverages Processing: Soft Drinks Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  74189   National Certificate: Cereals, Snacks, Pasta and Condiments Manufacturing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  22630   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Manufacturing Technology: Yeast Manufacturing Technology  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2016-12-31  FOODBEV 
    Elective  20507   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Packaging  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2006-11-16  Was FOODBEV until Last Date for Achievement 
    Elective  20199   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Processing: Confectionery Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2012-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  20214   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Processing: Dairy Primary Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Registered"     		 2004-12-05  Was FOODBEV until Last Date for Achievement 
    Elective  20194   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Processing: Fish and Seafood Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  20504   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Processing: Fruit and Vegetables Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2015-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  20196   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Processing: Meat Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2008-03-12  Was FOODBEV until Last Date for Achievement 
    Elective  20198   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Processing: Oil and Fat Based Product Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2015-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  20200   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Processing: Oil Milling  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2012-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  20195   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Processing: Oil Refining  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2012-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  20509   National Certificate: Food and Beverage Processing: Spirits Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  20505   National Certificate: Food and Beverages Processing: Brewing Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  20197   National Certificate: Food and Beverages Processing: Cereals, Snacks, Pasta, Spices, Condiments and Culinary Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2009-12-02  Was FOODBEV until Last Date for Achievement 
    Elective  20506   National Certificate: Food and Beverages Processing: Malting Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2015-06-30  FOODBEV 
    Elective  20510   National Certificate: Food and Beverages Processing: Wine Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2008-11-26  Was FOODBEV until Last Date for Achievement 
    Elective  24494   National Certificate: Fresh Meat Processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2008-02-06  Was FOODBEV until Last Date for Achievement 


    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.
     
    1. Competence Performance Consulting (Pty) Ltd 
    2. Intercept Consulting and Training Solutions 
    3. Operational Process Improvements (Pty) Ltd 
    4. Optimum Learning Technologies (Pty) Ltd 


    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.