Apparel and Related Manufacturing Machine Mechanic

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an Apparel and Related Manufacturing Machine Mechanic. An Apparel and Related Manufacturing Machine Mechanic repairs, maintains, services and set-up a range of sewing machines and related auxiliary equipment used within the clothing manufacturing processes. A qualified learner will be able to: • Repair, maintain and adjust a range of basic sewing machines and equipment to ensure that machines and all related equipment are fully functional. • Repair, maintain and adjust a range of intermediate sewing machines to ensure that machines and all related equipment are fully functional. • Repair, maintain and adjust a range of advanced sewing machine types and equipment to ensure that all machines and all related equipment are fully functional. • Set up a range of sewing machines and related equipment according to style specification. • Select, attach, maintain, adjust and modify a range of attachments, including folders, binders, hemmers, guides and specific feet. • Repair, maintain and adjust a range of cutting machines and related equipment to ensure good working order. • Repair, maintain and adjust a selection of three of a range of fusing machines, portable steam generators, pneumatic systems and electro-mechanical tasks on sewing machine motors.

In order for any clothing manufacturing firm to function effectively and efficiently, it would need to ensure for the on-going maintenance, repair and service of the sewing machines and related equipment. One of the ongoing measurements relative to efficiency is machine downtime and minimising the costs related thereto. The role of the Sewing Machine Mechanic, is thus of importance in respect of one of the key assets within the manufacturing firm. This three-year qualification is needed within and amongst the clothing manufacturing firms and represents a first of its kind in clothing manufacturing. It addresses the need within industry for the services of a professional Sewing Machine Mechanic, able to do repair and maintenance work across a broad range of machinery and related equipment found within a clothing manufacturing firm. The qualification will allow for existing learners/staff members who have been employed within industry for many years, to receive recognition for previous experiences and competencies acquired, through gaining access to the assessment. It also will allow new entrants, the opportunity of entering a career pathway, with no experience, and to qualify as a professional sewing machine mechanic. Qualifying learners will continue to be employed by their respective firms, where applicable, or even creating self-employment opportunities to those learners in pursuant of positions as consultants within industry. Minimising machine downtime, performing a range of repair and maintenance tasks across a range of sewing machines, are central aspects which are addressed in the qualification, along with a focus on effective communication and time management skills, and transference of skills in the workplace environment which has progressed in terms of world class manufacturing systems and processes, where applicable. This qualification equips learners with the necessary skills, knowledge and attitudes to become professional sewing machine mechanics, not only contributing toward the development of individual skills but toward a pool of professional individuals who would be an invaluable asset to the future success and sustainability of clothing manufacturing sector, especially given the environmental changes within which fashion businesses complete. This qualification will further resolve the on-going concern within the sector of recruitment of young, new sewing machine mechanics. There is no doubt that qualifying learners will add immense value to their respective organisations.

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 results or by 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: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: • NQF Level 1 qualification with Mathematics and Communication.

• Identify a range of machine faults.
• Undertake a range of tasks for the repair one out of a range of machines according to manufacturer specification within set time limits.
• Set up the machine for integration into the line and be functional on a range of fabric types.
• Comply with occupational health and safety requirements.
• Read and interpret technical diagrams, service instructions and job cards.
• Understand and explain the underpinning principles of machine repairs, set up and fault finding.