PIABC
Qualifications Section      

NVQ LEVEL 2 FOR PACKAGING OPERATORS

For many years the packaging industry has been crying out for a suite of National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) to help provide a broad framework of training and qualifications. At last, the first NVQ is available from PIABC.

It provides much needed training opportunities for packaging line operatives in all sectors. What's more, assessments are carried out in the workplace so that workforce development can take place in a systematic way, without taking staff away from the packaging line for long periods.

“I was a bit hesitant at first as I didn’t want people taken away from the packaging line for long periods, but it wasn’t like that at all. Dave Hodgson our Quality and Technical Manager persuaded me to go ahead and we’ve all been delighted with the way in which things have turned out. It was a big decision in the first place, but has turned out to be a terrific initiative. The two key advantages for the company have been that we have achieved real consistency in the training and performance of our operators and this has translated to improved production”.
Graham Clark, Managing Director, Central Pharma’s

“Not only did it make us think more about how to do a better job, but we also enjoyed it”.
Amanda Wilkes, McBride’s

“You could feel the atmosphere change as the programme progressed, people began to think differently about their jobs, and were able to do them better. They really developed as a team”.
John Barnacott, The Training Department

“The scheme is an excellent example of how work-based programmes can help both companies and individuals achieve their goals”.
Annetta Talbot, The Training Partnership

Packaging operatives are an essential part of the team and are required to carry out different operational tasks from the preparation of materials and equipment prior to starting the line, through production of finished packs, on to final line close-down. Therefore, these new qualifications are built around six core units:
  • Start packaging operations
  • Control packaging operations
  • End packaging operations
  • Respond to incidents, hazardous conditions and emergencies
  • Work safely
  • Work effectively in a team
Each unit contains a series of elements that get right to the heart of the process whether that be on an automated packaging line or in a more manual setting. However, that is not all there will be in the new qualifications. In food products for example, it is important that hygiene requirements are understood and standards adhered to at all stages. Everyone needs to work in a safe manner and observe all relevant health, safety and environmental rules and regulations. In addition to the core, supporting units cover these and other areas such as care and simple maintenance, pack sampling and routine machine changeover.

As training and assessment for the NVQ is work-based, the qualifications are open to all those who work as packaging operatives whether they are in large automated plants or work in smaller situations on more manual operations.

To achieve the NVQ, candidates need to gain the six core units plus any two of seventeen option units.

Assessment is carried out in the workplace by trained assessors and involves candidates reaching recognised standards of performance, knowledge and understanding.

Please contact info@piabc.org.uk if your require any further information.

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