Container Glass Forming Operator

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Container Glass Forming Operator. The qualification shall enable learners produce glass products using glass forming production plant, machinery and equipment and perform related operations in compliance with health, safety, and environmental requirements. Container Glass Forming Operator produces glass products using glass forming production plant, machinery and equipment and perform related operations in compliance with health, safety, and environmental requirements. A qualified learner will be able to: • Perform container glass forming operational checks. • Perform container glass forming operations. • Apply housekeeping and health and safety standards. • Use basic technology and communicate effectively. A qualified learner will demonstrate the following key attributes: problem solving, communication, safety and environmental awareness, adaptability.

There is a pressing requirement for a standardised qualification addressing the skills and knowledge related to container glass forming. As industries evolve and our reliance on sustainable packaging solutions like glass increases, a specialised workforce equipped with the right expertise becomes crucial. This qualification aims to fulfil the industry's demand by offering structured learning pathways, thereby ensuring that the workers are adequately trained, promoting efficiency, safety, and quality in production. The qualification reflects the common knowledge, practical and workplace-based specific needs that learners require in container glass forming production before progressing to learning at a higher level. The glass industry is well established in South Africa and its success is dependent upon the efficient production and manufacturing of glass products. Achievement of this objective is largely dependent upon the competence, recognised by this qualification, of the people who operate glass forming equipment. An adequate number of people with these skills are needed to ensure that the production units in South Africa operate productively. Competence in glass forming production requires appropriate general and glass specific knowledge as well as the practical application. Expertise in operating production equipment and controlling the forming process are further requirements for competence. Occupational Certificate: Container Glass Forming Operator, NQF Level 2, Credits 108, SAQA ID 110671 is reviewed and to be replaced by this qualification. The benefits to the sector, society, and economy are that the qualification enhances the container glass forming industry by standardising practices and elevating the skills of the workforce. With trained professionals, the industry can anticipate a surge in productivity, fewer production errors, and better overall product quality. Glass, being 100% recyclable, plays a pivotal role in eco-friendly packaging solutions. Training professionals in its formation means more efficient production, thereby promoting the use of sustainable materials in society and reduce costs. Increased high-quality glass products shall result in job creation, increased export and bolster the economic growth. Typical learners are individuals who are keen on entering the container glass forming sector. This includes school leavers, those seeking a career shift, or operating personnel working in container glass forming production environment who aim to formalise and certify their skills. Various stakeholders from the glass forming industry were consulted during development of this qualification.

RPL for Access Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a qualification if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors. RPL for exemption from modules For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. RPL for credits Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. RPL for access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved. Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualification is approved by the QCTO. Entry Requirements: An NQF Level 1 qualification.

• Conduct start-and end-of-shift operational procedures.
• Perform container glass forming operations according to operating procedures.
• Mitigate operational and environmental hazards and risks by applying appropriate procedures.
• Demonstrate the ability to apply various methods to identify problems and communicate effectively within the work environment.