ICPSUP211
Prepare ink and additives


Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare inks and additives in a range of printing processes.

It applies to individuals who perform a range of mainly routine tasks in various sectors of the printing and graphic arts industry, using limited practical skills and fundamental knowledge in a defined context. They generally work under direct supervision.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

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

1. Select ink

1.1 Inks, dyes and additives are selected according to job specifications

1.2 Suitability of inks, dyes or additives are checked and appropriate action is taken to meet quality standards of client requirements, and enterprise and industry standards

1.3 Inks and dyes are selected according to suitability of substrate, adhesion, physical and chemical resistance, and light fastness, drying method and print process

2. Prepare ink

2.1 Inks, dyes and additives are prepared according to work health and safety (WHS) requirements, and manufacturer’s/supplier’s instructions with suitable precautions to minimise waste

2.2 Correct colour and weight/volume of ink are mixed and prepared to match requirements of the job specifications and the printing press to be used

2.3 Formulation of ink and approved colour is appropriately recorded

3. Store and handle ink

3.1 Inks, dyes and additives are appropriately stored, handled and labelled according to manufacturer’s/supplier’s instructions to prevent damage and hazards to personnel

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

correctly prepare ink and additives as required by job specifications

prepare at least TWO lots of inks or additives to match a colour sample and specific end-use requirements according to workplace specifications.

Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.


Evidence of Knowledge

To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:

identify health and safety concerns related to preparation and matching of inks and additives

describe how inks and additives are correctly selected to match process and job requirements

explain how to determine suitability of ink for the particular process

describe characteristics of the chosen ink matched to the substrate

explain how to determine if ink adheres to the substrate

describe how to determine physical, chemical and light or colour fastness of ink

explain how correct handling procedures are determined

describe how to determine correct weight/volume required

outline methods to check and adjust ink colour and consistency

explain how to ensure quality of ink or additive is the required standard

describe the effect lighting conditions have on colour matching

outline how to determine compatibility of the ink being mixed

explain how to check inks for correct colour

list Material safety Data sheets (MSDS) for this ink system that are at hand

describe environmental conditions relevant to the storage of inks and additives

outline conventions for labelling mixed inks

describe how to dispose of inks, solvent and solvent rags

identify required manuals, safety and other documentation and briefly outline the relevant information in each source.


Assessment Conditions

Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the Support field of work and include access to inks and additives.

Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements.


Foundation Skills

This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.

Skill

Performance Criteria

Description

Reading

1.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1

Recognises text within job specifications and follows written instructions

Writing

2.3, 3.1

Records key information related to outcomes of the job

Numeracy

2.2

Uses simple mathematical techniques to determine weights and volume required

Navigate the world of work

1.2, 2.1, 3.1

Takes some personal responsibility for adherence to legal and regulatory requirements within industry standards and enterprise procedural frameworks

Get the work done

1.1-1.3, 2.2, 3.1

With assistance, determines priorities and sequences steps involved in clearly defined, familiar tasks, and identifies and assembles required resources

Takes responsibility for routine low-impact decisions within familiar situations

Recognises and responds to predictable routine problems related to role in immediate work context


Sectors

Support