Pulp Process Control Operator

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Pulp Process Control Operator. A Pulp Process Control Operator conducts pulp plant inspections, conducts pulp plant inspections and first-line maintenance, takes readings and performs housekeeping and operational support activities. A qualified learner will be able to: • Inspect and maintain overall pulp production plant reliability. • Conduct housekeeping tasks and report on pulp production operations.

The need for this 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 (National Certificate: Pulp and Paper Operations NQF Level 2 and 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 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 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 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 qualification forms part of a suite of related qualifications in a paper and pulp occupational pathway. Learners wishing to become a Pulp Process Control Operator can either enrol for this qualification (Occupational Certificate: Pulp Process Control Operator, Level 3) or first enrol for the 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. Similarly, learners will be able to move from the Pulp Process Control Operator to the Paper Process Control Operator pathway. Learners wishing to proceed to become a Pulp Process Controller can after completion of this qualification (Occupational Certificate: Pulp Process Control Operator, Level 3) enrol for the Occupational Certificate: Pulp Process Controller, Level 4. Such learners will be granted recognition for modules already completed (CAT).

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.

• Monitor and inspect the reliability of pulp production plant components and perform first-line routine maintenance selecting, applying and reporting appropriate procedures.
• Conduct housekeeping activities and prepare pulp production process control reports reflecting information clearly and accurately.