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: 

Prepare surfaces for painting 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
261697  Prepare surfaces for painting 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Building Construction 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction Building Construction 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 3  NQF Level 03  20 
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 replaces: 
US ID Unit Standard Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Credits Replacement Status
14499  Prepare and prime new surfaces  Level 3  NQF Level 03  15   
14500  Prepare and prime previously coated surfaces  Level 3  NQF Level 03  15   

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
The skills, values and knowledge reflected in this unit standard are required by people in the field of building and civil construction. Learners should be able to perform duties in preparing surfaces for painting.

A person credited with this unit standard is able to:
  • Determine sequences and their individual components and assess surface condition in terms of preparation requirements.
  • Prepare surfaces for the application of primer and paint by removing fittings.
  • Identify, select and maintain tools and equipment. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners are already competent in the following:
  • Communication at NQF Level 2.
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 2. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    Stated with Specific Outcomes/Assessment Criteria to which they apply. The typical scope of the unit standard includes:
  • Surfaces include but are not limited to previously coated, absorbent and non-absorbent, rough and smooth, and poor or damaged surfaces, as well as new surfaces.
  • Previous coats are stripped by applying heat, or chemicals, or by sanding or scraping the surface.
  • Imperfections include nail head holes, cracks, crevices, bare areas, etc.
  • Contaminating agents include but are not limited to loose/flaking paint or varnish, loose mortar in joints, shutter release agents, hemp, grease and oil patches, flux, green discoloration (pipes), mortar lumps (floors), debris, rust, old wall paper, adhesive traces, etc.
  • Rust is sanded down to bare metal.
  • Bare areas on PVC surfaces being repainted are sanded down with water sandpaper and primed with appropriate etch primer.
  • Bare metal areas are spot primed with appropriate primer.
  • Protruding objects or contaminating agents are sanded down, removed, scraped, sunk, etc.
  • Floors are etched.
  • Previously painted and galvanised surfaces are washed with appropriate degreaser and rinsed with clean water. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Determine sequences and their individual components and assess surface condition in terms of preparation requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The condition of structures and their individual surfaces to be painted are determined so as to understand what preparations are required. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Preparation of surfaces are planned in the correct sequence. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Substrates are identified in terms of different types to determine preparation requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Surface are identified in terms of their characteristics to determine preparation requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The condition of surface is assessed in terms of paint failures and potential paint failures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    All relevant health and safety requirements are adhered to. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Prepare surfaces for the application of primer and paint by removing fittings. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Fittings include door handles, lock plates, barrel bolts, furniture, electrical switch covers, etc.

    Surfaces include:
  • Plaster, concrete, timber, plaster board, gypsum, metal, plastic, fibre cement. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    All imperfections are cleaned out, unwanted objects are removed and the specific fillers are applied to a flush/even finish. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Raw surfaces are sanded down, cleaned or stripped and etched where required. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    All surfaces are dusted down, or washed and left to dry where appropriate, after preparation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Materials, tools and equipment used are ensured to be appropriate for specific surfaces. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    All PPE are used in accordance with the specific task. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Identify, select and maintain tools and equipment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Tools and equipment are selected to be fit-for purpose and suitable for specified tasks/applications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Tools and equipment are checked for defects prior to being used. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Tools and equipment are maintained in good condition. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Properties, purposes, and applications of materials, tools and equipment are described accurately. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this Unit Standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this Unit Standard must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA or by an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA, according to the ETQA's policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation.
  • 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 as well as the integrated competence described in the Qualification.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this Unit Standard may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    Qualifying learners understand and can explain:
  • Structures and components of structures.
  • Imperfections in surfaces.
  • Rusted surfaces.
  • Surface characteristics.
  • Etching and priming.
  • The function, properties, and application of primers, primer coats and spot primers, and fillers.
  • Contaminating agents and their properties.
  • Convertible paints and primers which dry by chemically curing.
  • Range: Paints and primers include but are not limited to alkyd, two pack epoxy and polyurethane as well as powdered cementitious coatings, etc.
  • Non-convertible paints which dry by solvent or dilutent evaporation.
  • Range: Non-convertible paints include but are not limited to polyvinyl acetate (PVA), acrylic, shellac, bitumen, hydrocarbon resins, etc.
  • Components of paint.
  • Range: Components of paint include vehicles, pigments, extenders, solvents or dilutents and additives.
  • Types of surface finish.
  • Range: Types of surface finish include but are not limited to glossy, eggshell, matt, stippled and flecked.
  • Quality and surface finish of different types of paint and their suitability for specific contexts.
  • Range: Suitability refers to suitability for, for example, exterior exposure, ease of cleaning, durability in exposure conditions, etc.
  • Viscosity of paints and its effect on application.
  • Paint systems.
  • Range: Paint systems include primers, undercoats and finish or top coats.
  • The uses of manual and powered surface preparation tools, their purpose and application.
  • Range: Manual and powered surface preparation tools include types of sand paper, water paper, abrasive blocks, types of paint scrapers, surface filler application equipment, sealant guns, Disc, Orbital and Belt sanders, hot air guns, blow torches, angle grinders, high pressure water blasting equipment and abrasive blasting equipment, etc.
  • The correct use and method of application of crack fillers, sealants, patching compounds and polymer modified cementitious compounds.
  • The construction and uses of paint brushes, paint rollers, spray guns, etc.
  • Estimation of quantities and costs based on surface characteristics, of surface preparation/materials/labour/paint required, and application tools/equipment required, to prepare surfaces and apply paint systems.
  • Statutory requirements regarding Occupational Health and Safety and protection of the environment.
  • Relevant National Building Regulations and SABS Codes.
  • Health/safety/environment/planning regulations, including those related to hazards, hazardous substances, risk and safety precautions prescribed in relevant legislation, and the relationships existing amongst all the foregoing issues.
  • Implications of non-compliance with the following, as they apply to illness or injury in the work area:
    > Selection and use of protective clothing/equipment.
    > Selection and implementation of health and safety procedures.
    > Application of basic First Aid measures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made when:

    Making responsible decisions within prescribed procedures for correct identification/prompt action related to:
  • Potential hazards.
  • Selecting and using protective equipment/clothing requirements.
  • Complying with all prescribed Health and Safety/legal requirements. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, and community during:
  • Performing tasks related to the preparation of surfaces for painting. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively when:
  • Assessing surface conditions in preparation for painting. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information to better understand and explain:
  • Assessing surface conditions in preparation for painting. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion when:
  • Promptly reporting injuries to all persons concerned, and adhering to specified procedures for recording injuries and writing incident reports. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others when:
  • Preparation of surfaces to receive paint systems.
  • Checking tools and equipment for defects prior to use.
  • All in accordance with best practice and prescribed Health and Safety Regulations. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation when:
  • Problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
  • Preparation of surfaces should be planned and executed in the correct sequence.
  • Corrective action is required if/when defective or faulty tools/equipment do not meet prescribed requirements/manufacturers' specific. 
    		•

    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 
    This unit standard replaces the following unit standards:
  • ID 14499, "Prepare and prime new surfaces", Level 3, 15 credits.
  • ID 14500, "Prepare and prime previously coated surfaces", Level 3, 15 credits. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  65409   National Certificate: Building and Civil Construction  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  CETA 


    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. AFRICA SKILLS VILLAGE 
    2. Akaf Bodyguards 
    3. Big Tree Group 
    4. BOLAND COLLEGE (Paarl) 
    5. Bright Storm Projects 
    6. Certified Training Solutions (Pty) Ltd 
    7. Eastcape Training Centre 
    8. Ekurhuleni Artisans and Skills Training Pty Ltd 
    9. Goitsebasadi Construction Project 
    10. In Touch Community Development & Project Managers 
    11. Leps Training Consultants 
    12. Mahumani Empowerment Servives Centre 
    13. Masana Social Consultants cc 
    14. Mavco Engineering 
    15. MOLOKO SMALL ENTERPRISE 
    16. MPUMALANGA REGIONAL TRAINING TRUST 
    17. MTL Training and Projects 
    18. Namuntlha Training and Development (Pty)Ltd 
    19. Northlink TVET College 
    20. Novi General Services 
    21. PIONEER BUSINESS CONSULTING (PTY) LTD 
    22. Primeserv Corporate Solutions (Pty) Ltd 
    23. Raubex Construction Pty (Ltd) 
    24. Sakhisizwe Development Training 
    25. Sheq and Environmental Projects 
    26. Sonani Training and Communications 
    27. Tjeka Training Matters Pty Ltd 
    28. Tovani Traiding 299 
    29. TSK Projects(PTY)LTD 
    30. Umfolozi FET College 
    31. West Coast TVET College 


    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.