Pulp Process Control Attendant

The purpose of this part-qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Pulp Process Control Attendant. A Pulp Process Control Attendant conducts housekeeping activities, takes readings and performs operational support activities in a plant that produces pulp. A qualified learner will be able to: • Conduct housekeeping tasks and report on pulp production operations.

The need for this part-qualification stems from the necessity to revise and update existing unit standards-based qualifications. Currently, there are two, unit standards-based qualifications registered that needs to be aligned and updated (SAQA ID: 61929 National Certificate: Pulp and Paper Operations NQF Level 2 and SAQA ID: 61971 National Certificate: Pulp and Paper Operations NQF Level 3) to meet requirements. This process resulted in the identification of a learning pathway for pulp and paper processing operations as well as a learning pathway for pulp processing operations. The Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA), representing more than 90% of paper, packaging and tissue manufacturers in South Africa as well as the main individual manufacturers (including, Sappi, Mondi, Mpact, Twinsaver, Neopak, Corruseal and Kimberly Clark) supported the need and actively participated in the development of this qualification. Furthermore, participants from a Higher Education Institution (the Durban University of Technology and Unisa) offering the Diploma in Pulp and Paper Technology also participated in the development of this qualification. The paper and pulp industry has a specific need for a competent and skilled workforce. Qualifications to formally acknowledge the skills and competencies, at different NQF levels, is required by the sector. This part-qualification, by addressing industry requirements and needs, is essential for social and economic transformation and contribute to the progression and economic growth within the pulp and paper processing and maintenance fraternity. Typical learners likely to be attracted to this part-qualification include production personnel already working in a chemical, pulp or paper processing plant, seeking to obtain a formal qualification and further their career in the pulp and paper industry. New entrants to the sector completing this qualification would benefit from increased possibilities of employment. This part-qualification will contribute to the full development of the learner within the pulp and paper industry by providing recognition, further mobility, and transportability within the sector. This part-qualification forms part of a suite of related qualifications in a paper and pulp occupational pathway. Learners wishing to become a Pulp Process Control Attendant can enrol for this part-qualification: Pulp Process Control Attendant, Level 2. Should such a learner wish to, at a later stage, enrol for the Occupational Certificate: Pulp Process Control Operator he/she will be granted recognition for modules already completed (CAT). Similarly, learners will be able to move from the Pulp Process Control Operator to the Paper Process Control Operator pathway.

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 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.

1. Conduct housekeeping activities and prepare pulp production process control reports reflecting information clearly and accurately.