Unit of Competency Mapping – Information for Teachers/Assessors – Information for Learners

MEA511 Mapping and Delivery Guide
Operate and maintain sewing machines and overlockers

Version 1.0
Issue Date: April 2024


Qualification -
Unit of Competency MEA511 - Operate and maintain sewing machines and overlockers
Description
Employability Skills
Learning Outcomes and Application This unit of competency requires application of skills and knowledge relating to the operation and maintenance of sewing machines and overlockers in the maintenance of items of aircraft life support equipment and in the fabrication and maintenance of items of aircraft soft furnishings. The unit is part of the Aeroskills Life Support and Furnishing Certificate III and IV training pathways. It is used in workplaces that operate under the airworthiness regulatory systems of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
Duration and Setting X weeks, nominally xx hours, delivered in a classroom/online/blended learning setting.

Access is required to:

real or appropriately simulated situations involving the sewing or overlocking of materials used in aircraft life support equipment and in aircraft soft furnishings

information on specifications of materials used in sewing and overlocking, settings for machines, relevant safety procedures and regulations, quality standards, and enterprise procedures

all necessary facilities, sewing/overlocking machines and associated hand and power tools.

Assessment may occur on the job or in an industry approved simulated environment.

The work plan should take account of applicable safety and quality requirements in accordance with the industry and regulatory standards.

The following conditions of assessment represent the requirements of the Regulators (ADF and CASA) and maintenance stakeholders and must be rigorously observed.

A person cannot be assessed as competent until it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the workplace assessor that the relevant elements and performance criteria of the unit of competency are being achieved under routine supervision on a sufficient number of occasions or over sufficient period of time to ensure consistent performance across a typical range of sewing and overlocking requirements performed at the enterprise.

This shall be established via the records in the Log of Industrial Experience and Achievement or, where appropriate, an equivalent Industry Evidence Guide (for details refer to the Companion Volume Assessment Guidelines).

Assessors must satisfy the requirements of the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator (Australian Skills Quality Authority, or its successors).
Prerequisites/co-requisites
Competency Field Aircraft life support
Development and validation strategy and guide for assessors and learners Student Learning Resources Handouts
Activities 		Slides
PPT 		Assessment 1 Assessment 2 Assessment 3 Assessment 4
Elements of Competency Performance Criteria              
Element: Plan work and prepare work area
  • Work is planned to maximise safety and productivity
  • Work area is cleared and cleaned to provide work table free of obstructions and clear access to sewing/overlocking machine
  • Safe working environment is established
  • Suitable electrical power outlets, if required, are identified
  • Assistance to move and position work piece is obtained if necessary
       
Element: Select thread and needle
  • Type of material to be sewn, type of stitch to be used and nature of duty to which finished product is to be subjected is determined to assist in selection of thread and needle
  • Suitable thread is selected with regard to thread material, diameter of thread, tensile strength and colour
  • Appropriate needle is chosen to suit type of thread, type of stitch and material to be sewn
       
Element: Set up machine
  • Machine is examined for damage, missing components or other defects
  • Power cords are examined for knots, unsafe routing and insulation damage
  • Machine is safely connected to power and correct ‘power-on’ procedure is followed
  • Condition of needle is checked to ensure it is sharp, clean and free from rust and dirt
  • Needle is fitted to machine
  • Machine is threaded and thread is checked for free travel from spool
  • Thread tension and other machine settings are checked and adjusted using test pieces if necessary
       
Element: Operate machine
  • Work piece is correctly aligned to machine
  • Machine is operated in accordance with standard procedures while observing all relevant work health and safety (WHS) requirements
  • Work piece is appropriately fed into machine
  • Performance of machine is monitored through regular checking of thread tension and other settings and inspection of stitching in finished product
       
Element: Inspection, quality, labelling and documentation
  • Work piece is removed from machine using assistance if necessary
  • Completed work is inspected to verify that it meets applicable technical instructions
  • Any areas in need of rework or rectification are identified and marked
  • Rework is performed or other appropriate action arranged
  • Completed product is labelled or tagged and any necessary documentation completed in accordance with standard enterprise procedures
       
Element: Clean up and maintain equipment
  • Machine is switched off using correct ‘power off’ procedures
  • Machine is cleaned and programmed maintenance, which is within the province of the operator, is performed in accordance with enterprise requirements and manufacturer’s specifications while observing all relevant WHS requirements, including the use of material safety data sheets (MSDS)
  • Worn or damaged needles are disposed of in accordance with safe working practice
  • Supervisor is notified of any abnormal conditions requiring maintenance or repair
       


Evidence Required

List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1.

Plan work and prepare work area

1.1

Work is planned to maximise safety and productivity

1.2

Work area is cleared and cleaned to provide work table free of obstructions and clear access to sewing/overlocking machine

1.3

Safe working environment is established

1.4

Suitable electrical power outlets, if required, are identified

1.5

Assistance to move and position work piece is obtained if necessary

2.

Select thread and needle

2.1

Type of material to be sewn, type of stitch to be used and nature of duty to which finished product is to be subjected is determined to assist in selection of thread and needle

2.2

Suitable thread is selected with regard to thread material, diameter of thread, tensile strength and colour

2.3

Appropriate needle is chosen to suit type of thread, type of stitch and material to be sewn

3.

Set up machine

3.1

Machine is examined for damage, missing components or other defects

3.2

Power cords are examined for knots, unsafe routing and insulation damage

3.3

Machine is safely connected to power and correct ‘power-on’ procedure is followed

3.4

Condition of needle is checked to ensure it is sharp, clean and free from rust and dirt

3.5

Needle is fitted to machine

3.6

Machine is threaded and thread is checked for free travel from spool

3.7

Thread tension and other machine settings are checked and adjusted using test pieces if necessary

4.

Operate machine

4.1

Work piece is correctly aligned to machine

4.2

Machine is operated in accordance with standard procedures while observing all relevant work health and safety (WHS) requirements

4.3

Work piece is appropriately fed into machine

4.4

Performance of machine is monitored through regular checking of thread tension and other settings and inspection of stitching in finished product

5.

Inspection, quality, labelling and documentation

5.1

Work piece is removed from machine using assistance if necessary

5.2

Completed work is inspected to verify that it meets applicable technical instructions

5.3

Any areas in need of rework or rectification are identified and marked

5.4

Rework is performed or other appropriate action arranged

5.5

Completed product is labelled or tagged and any necessary documentation completed in accordance with standard enterprise procedures

6.

Clean up and maintain equipment

6.1

Machine is switched off using correct ‘power off’ procedures

6.2

Machine is cleaned and programmed maintenance, which is within the province of the operator, is performed in accordance with enterprise requirements and manufacturer’s specifications while observing all relevant WHS requirements, including the use of material safety data sheets (MSDS)

6.3

Worn or damaged needles are disposed of in accordance with safe working practice

6.4

Supervisor is notified of any abnormal conditions requiring maintenance or repair

Evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria under the specified conditions of assessment, and must include:

applying relevant WHS procedures

interpreting and applying work instructions and established procedures

planning and coordinating work activities

locating and interpreting technical information about machines and materials used in aircraft life support and furnishing

selecting appropriate needle and thread

identifying unsatisfactory machine performance

using relevant hand and power tools

using relevant chemicals and cleaning agents and dispose of waste products

maintaining machines and work area

applying all relevant safety practices

communicating effectively within the workplace

documenting and transferring information.

The underlying skills inherent in this unit should be transferable across a range of aircraft life support equipment maintenance activities involving the use of sewing machines/overlockers. It is essential that fabric component manufacture, repair and alteration procedures and safety precautions are fully observed, understood and complied with. Ability to interpret fabric component requirements and apply them in practice is critical.

This is to be demonstrated through demonstration of the ability to perform appropriate manufacturing, repair and alteration tasks that are within the bounds of the individual’s authority.

Evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria and include knowledge of:

precautions and safe working practices based on relevant WHS legislation, codes of practice, policies and procedures

advanced work piece construction principles and methods

characteristics of a wide range of materials used in aircraft life support and furnishing

operating principles of a wide range of sewing/overlocking machines

types of needles and threads and their applications

types of stitching and their applications

standard industry practice for needle storage and safe disposal

the range of sewing/overlocking machines, hand tools and power tools used in sewing/overlocking processes and their appropriateness for particular applications

relevant quality standards for sewn/overlocked products

power sources, such as single phase, three phase and weather protected outlets

electrical isolation procedures for sewing/overlocking machines

safety and environmental requirements of relevant industry and enterprise procedures

general housekeeping policies and procedures

recording and reporting procedures.

Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assignment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)

Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1.

Plan work and prepare work area

1.1

Work is planned to maximise safety and productivity

1.2

Work area is cleared and cleaned to provide work table free of obstructions and clear access to sewing/overlocking machine

1.3

Safe working environment is established

1.4

Suitable electrical power outlets, if required, are identified

1.5

Assistance to move and position work piece is obtained if necessary

2.

Select thread and needle

2.1

Type of material to be sewn, type of stitch to be used and nature of duty to which finished product is to be subjected is determined to assist in selection of thread and needle

2.2

Suitable thread is selected with regard to thread material, diameter of thread, tensile strength and colour

2.3

Appropriate needle is chosen to suit type of thread, type of stitch and material to be sewn

3.

Set up machine

3.1

Machine is examined for damage, missing components or other defects

3.2

Power cords are examined for knots, unsafe routing and insulation damage

3.3

Machine is safely connected to power and correct ‘power-on’ procedure is followed

3.4

Condition of needle is checked to ensure it is sharp, clean and free from rust and dirt

3.5

Needle is fitted to machine

3.6

Machine is threaded and thread is checked for free travel from spool

3.7

Thread tension and other machine settings are checked and adjusted using test pieces if necessary

4.

Operate machine

4.1

Work piece is correctly aligned to machine

4.2

Machine is operated in accordance with standard procedures while observing all relevant work health and safety (WHS) requirements

4.3

Work piece is appropriately fed into machine

4.4

Performance of machine is monitored through regular checking of thread tension and other settings and inspection of stitching in finished product

5.

Inspection, quality, labelling and documentation

5.1

Work piece is removed from machine using assistance if necessary

5.2

Completed work is inspected to verify that it meets applicable technical instructions

5.3

Any areas in need of rework or rectification are identified and marked

5.4

Rework is performed or other appropriate action arranged

5.5

Completed product is labelled or tagged and any necessary documentation completed in accordance with standard enterprise procedures

6.

Clean up and maintain equipment

6.1

Machine is switched off using correct ‘power off’ procedures

6.2

Machine is cleaned and programmed maintenance, which is within the province of the operator, is performed in accordance with enterprise requirements and manufacturer’s specifications while observing all relevant WHS requirements, including the use of material safety data sheets (MSDS)

6.3

Worn or damaged needles are disposed of in accordance with safe working practice

6.4

Supervisor is notified of any abnormal conditions requiring maintenance or repair

This field allows for different work environments and conditions that may affect performance. Essential operating conditions that may be present (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) are included.

Procedures and requirements include:

Industry standard procedures specified by manufacturers, regulatory authorities or the enterprise

Working environment includes:

Work organisation procedures and practices relating to the sewing/overlocking of materials

Safe use of sewing/overlocking machines and relevant hand and power tools

Storage, safe handling and disposal of needles, threads and materials associated with sewing/overlocking

Reporting actions which include verbal and written communication in accordance with enterprise policies and procedures

Oral, written or visual communication, including completion of standard forms, interpretation of information and instructions associated with workplace activities, and recording and reporting of work outcomes

Procedures for safety, environmental protection, housekeeping and quality as specified by equipment and materials manufacturers, regulatory authorities and the enterprise

Standard procedures are found in any or all of:

Commonwealth/state/territory WHS legislation, regulations and codes

Australian Standards

equipment manufacturers’ specifications and procedures

Industry practices

Safety manual

Maintenance schedules

Work instructions

Maintenance organisation manual

MSDS

Defence regulations and instructions

Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASRs) and advisory material

Standing instructions

Technical instructions include:

Aircraft operational requirements

Job orders

Manufacturers’ specifications

Maintenance manuals

Modification instructions

Technical drawings

Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
Work is planned to maximise safety and productivity 
Work area is cleared and cleaned to provide work table free of obstructions and clear access to sewing/overlocking machine 
Safe working environment is established 
Suitable electrical power outlets, if required, are identified 
Assistance to move and position work piece is obtained if necessary 
Type of material to be sewn, type of stitch to be used and nature of duty to which finished product is to be subjected is determined to assist in selection of thread and needle 
Suitable thread is selected with regard to thread material, diameter of thread, tensile strength and colour 
Appropriate needle is chosen to suit type of thread, type of stitch and material to be sewn 
Machine is examined for damage, missing components or other defects 
Power cords are examined for knots, unsafe routing and insulation damage 
Machine is safely connected to power and correct ‘power-on’ procedure is followed 
Condition of needle is checked to ensure it is sharp, clean and free from rust and dirt 
Needle is fitted to machine 
Machine is threaded and thread is checked for free travel from spool 
Thread tension and other machine settings are checked and adjusted using test pieces if necessary 
Work piece is correctly aligned to machine 
Machine is operated in accordance with standard procedures while observing all relevant work health and safety (WHS) requirements 
Work piece is appropriately fed into machine 
Performance of machine is monitored through regular checking of thread tension and other settings and inspection of stitching in finished product 
Work piece is removed from machine using assistance if necessary 
Completed work is inspected to verify that it meets applicable technical instructions 
Any areas in need of rework or rectification are identified and marked 
Rework is performed or other appropriate action arranged 
Completed product is labelled or tagged and any necessary documentation completed in accordance with standard enterprise procedures 
Machine is switched off using correct ‘power off’ procedures 
Machine is cleaned and programmed maintenance, which is within the province of the operator, is performed in accordance with enterprise requirements and manufacturer’s specifications while observing all relevant WHS requirements, including the use of material safety data sheets (MSDS) 
Worn or damaged needles are disposed of in accordance with safe working practice 
Supervisor is notified of any abnormal conditions requiring maintenance or repair 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

MEA511 - Operate and maintain sewing machines and overlockers
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

Feedback to student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Assessment Record Sheet

MEA511 - Operate and maintain sewing machines and overlockers

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Student signature:

Date: