Carry out chemical or mechanical processes to hides, skins and leather

URN: UKFTFLG9
Business Sectors (Suites): Footwear, Leather Production and Leathergoods
Developed by: UKFT
Approved on: 30 Mar 2020

Overview

This standard is about carrying out chemical or mechanical processes to materials in leather production.  Materials can be hides, skins or leather. Chemical processing can take place in beamhouse, tannage, post tannage and finishing.  Mechanical processing can include fleshing, splitting, shaving, drying, softening, spraying and embossing.

This includes confirming the type grade and quantity of materials, following processing procedures, avoiding damage or contamination, using required chemicals, machinery or equipment and reporting deviations.

The standard is for anyone involved in processing hides, skins or leather as part of production.


Performance criteria

You must be able to:

  1. make sure the work area is free from hazards at all times
  2. identify, select and confirm the type, grade and quantity of materials to be processed
  3. confirm that material received matches work ticket
  4. carry out processing in line with essential information contained on work tickets
  5. use tools, equipment and chemicals that are appropriate for the type of processing being carried out
  6. handle material in ways that avoid contamination and damage to material during the process
  7. carry out processing in line with process instructions
  8. work in ways that minimise waste at all times
  9. handle and transport material in the appropriate sequence
  10. report any deviations from required processes to appropriate people
  11. complete processes to the specified standard for the next operation
  12. start, operate and shut down any equipment in line with manufacturers' instructions
  13. handle any chemicals in line with manufacturers' instructions
  14. clean, carry out basic maintenance and store any equipment in an appropriate place after use
  15. comply with written instructions relating to processing materials
  16. complete required forms, records and other documentation
  17. work to legal requirements, standards and regulations, policies, procedures and professional codes at all times

Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

  1. the main types and characteristics of hides, skins or leather produced by the organisation
  2. the main stages and purpose of each operation in organiational production processes
  3. the sections of work tickets relevant to the work
  4. main stages in mechanical processes including fleshing, splitting, shaving, drying, softening, spraying, embossing
  5. main stages in chemical processes including beamhouse, tannage, post tannage or finishing
  6. how to accurately weigh chemicals and appropriate handling methods
  7. equipment use and capabilities and how to adjust it to achieve required results
  8. the by-products and waste produced during processing
  9. the organisation's policies about ethical production and sustainability
  10. the effects of wastage on operations and sustainability
  11. the action to be taken when correct material for work is not available
  12. how material can be contaminated or damaged during processing and the effects on quality
  13. what essential information needs to be passed on and to whom
  14. the organisation's rules, codes, guidelines and standards
  15. the organisation's rules for safe disposal of waste and the implications of failing to follow the rules
  16. the hazards associated with the machines and the safety precautions that must be taken
  17. statutory responsibilities under health and safety and environmental legislation and regulations
  18. common hazards in the work area and workplace procedures for dealing with them

Scope/range


Scope Performance


Scope Knowledge


Values


Behaviours


Skills


Glossary


Links To Other NOS


External Links


Version Number

5

Indicative Review Date

30 Mar 2025

Validity

Current

Status

Original

Originating Organisation

Creative Skillset

Original URN

SKSL1

Relevant Occupations

Crafts, Creative Arts and Design, Design Associate Professionals, Footwear Specialist, Manufacturing Technologies, Textile and Garment Trades

SOC Code

5419

Keywords

Leather materials; tanning; chemical; beamhouse; manufacturing; mechanical; embossing; fleshing; splitting