Due to the tremendous technological advances, especially in the area of computers, the trade of photolithography has undergone irreversible changes. The term Desk Top Publishing (DTP) has become a household word and almost all the tasks previously done by the photo-lithographer are now done on high-powered computer systems. It is for this reason that a new trade combining the skills of photo-lithography and DTP or electronic origination was started.
The duties of photo-lithographers or electronic originators include all aspects of the work, which have to be done prior to the job being printed on a variety of printing presses. They handle the work from the time of the first instruction: doing type-setting; preparing line or half-tone pictures in single or multi-colour separations which allow for the job being printed in colour, the making up and laying out of the job in its final form with text, graphics, special effects and all other instructions which may be given by the customer; making positives or negatives and preparing the printing-plates for the presses.
The work is normally done indoors in clean, well-equipped and air-conditioned areas. Overtime and shift work is normal in this trade.
Satisfying Aspects
- working creatively with high powered machinery
- pleasant working conditions
- working with others
Demanding aspects
- having to concentrate closely on one's work at all times
- having to meet deadlines
- having to work overtime when necessary
Requirements
- at least 16 years old
- enjoy using your hands and manual dexterity
- able to work quickly and accurately even under pressure
- some artistic ability
- responsible and organized
- interest in mechanical and electro-technical matters
- good health and stamina
- good colour perception and eyesight
- well-developed colour discrimination
- good eye-hand coordination
- able to concentrate for long periods
- pay attention to detail
- able to adapt to the changes in technology
- computer skills
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Visual Arts, Information Technology
Training
Prospective photo-lithographers or electronic originators can qualify in three different ways:
There are three ways to qualify as a registered artisan:
1. An apprenticeship is a 4-year contract between company and apprentice, comprising a 12-week theoretical training, which includes 4 subjects at national exam level.
2. A learnership is a structured learning programme that leads to a qualification in a certain field. The learnership programme includes a theoretical and a practical component. It usually takes about a year to complete. The training takes place on-site (on the premises of the organisation). This has the advantage that the learner gets on-the-job experience whilst training.
3. FET colleges offer theoretical training to prospective artisans via the new National Certificate Vocational (NCV). During this 3-year programme (levels 2 to 4), learners complete a school-leaving certificate (this NCV) similar to the
new National Senior Certificate (NSC) in schools. They are also exposed to a practical workshop component.
All learners are required to complete a practical internship under the supervision of an experienced artisan. As an alternative to doing the full qualification, a learner can apply to do a skills programme at a FET College. Skills programmes are short practical hands-on courses.
For more information about qualifications and skills programmes, contact your nearest FET College. FET Colleges are accredited and funded by a SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) such as MERSETA or CHIETA. They also receive bursary funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the NCV programme.
Learners must all receive training in occupational safety and first aid, fire-fighting and preventative security measures. Learners study everything about the installation, maintenance and repair of all electrical equipment. They must also become familiar with municipal legislation relevant to electricity supply and consumption..
Employer
- printing companies
- companies that specialize in origination
- design studios
- self-employment, with enough experience and capital, can start own business
Contact
Printing Industries Federation of SA
P O Box 1396
Gallo Manor, 2052
The Braids
113 - 115 Bowling Avenue
Gallo Manor, 2191
Tel: (011) 287-1160 Fax: (011) 287-1178
www.pifsa.co.za