Pulp Process Controller

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Pulp Process Controller. A Pulp Process Controller operates and shuts down the pulp processing plant, evaluates and maintains pulp production processes, conducts pulp plant inspections and first-line maintenance, takes readings and performs housekeeping and operational support activities. A qualified learner will be able to: • Start pulp production plant up, maintain pulp production plant operating conditions and shut pulp production plant down. • 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 three, unit standards-based qualifications registered that needs to be aligned and updated; The National Certificate: Pulp and Paper Operations, the National Certificate: Pulp and Paper Operations and the Further Education and Training Certificate: Pulp and Paper Operations to meet requirements. This process resulted in the identification of a learning pathway for pulp processing operations as well as well as a learning pathway for paper 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 (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 a 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 by 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 Controller can either enrol for this qualification (Occupational Certificate: Pulp Process Controller, Level 4) or alternatively first enrol for the Occupational Certificate: Pulp Process Control Operator, Level 3. Should such a learner wish to, at a later stage, enrol for the Occupational Certificate: Pulp Process Controller he/she will be granted recognition for modules already completed. In a similar manner, learners will be able to move from the Pulp Process Controller pathway to the Paper Process Controller 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 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. Learners with previous learning, obtained the required knowledge, skills or work experience related to a module that is part of this qualification (or part-qualification) may request the accredited provider or the relevant workplace to access that module. If found competent the learner will be exempted from completing the module and the achievement will be recorded on the statement of results or the logbook. In terms of Credit Accumulation and Transfer policy, learners who have completed any of the modules as part of a part-qualification or a qualification that form part of the learning pathway towards this qualification will be exempted from completing those modules already completed. Proof of successful completion will be reflected on the relevant statement of results. When applying for the external integrated assessment proof of completion of all required modules may thus result in various statements of results obtained through various processes. Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: • NQF Level 1 qualification.

• Set up pulp production plant and auxiliary equipment, monitor and maintain functionality of pulp production plant and pulp quality.
• Monitor and inspect 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.