Cameroon CAP Vocational Trades key terms

A recognised skilled occupation such as carpentry, masonry, tailoring or auto mechanics, learned through apprenticeship and certified by a trade qualification. In the CAP context it names the trade the candidate is being tested on.

The Cameroonian vocational certificate awarded after training in a specific trade. It combines technical theory, practical workshop tasks and general subjects, and certifies that the holder can work as a qualified craftsperson.

A structured period of on-the-job training under a qualified master craftsperson, combined with classroom study. The apprentice gradually takes on real tasks and is assessed on both workshop performance and technical knowledge.

A trained and experienced worker who has completed the initial apprenticeship and works alongside others under a master or team leader. The term also describes the journeyman stage before full mastery.

The qualified craftsperson responsible for supervising an apprentice in the workshop. This person demonstrates techniques, checks safety behaviour, corrects errors and reports on the apprentice's progress to the training centre.

A drawing that shows a part or assembly with its dimensions, materials and notes needed to make it. The craftsperson reads it to plan cutting, shaping, assembly and the order of operations.

The system of writing measurements on a technical drawing using dimension lines, arrows and numbers. Correct coting tells the maker the exact size and position of every feature without guessing.

The main view of an object on a technical drawing, showing its most characteristic shape. Other views, such as the top and side views, are projected from it using standard arrangement rules.

A drawing method in which each view shows the object seen from one direction, with lines projected at right angles onto a plane. It produces flat views that preserve true dimensions and allow accurate manufacture.

The ratio between a drawn length and the real length of the object, such as 1:2 for a reduced drawing or 2:1 for an enlarged one. It must be stated on the drawing so measurements can be interpreted correctly.

The permitted variation in a dimension or shape, for example a shaft diameter allowed between 19.9 mm and 20.1 mm. It defines how much inaccuracy is acceptable while the part still fits and works.

The relationship between the sizes of two mating parts, such as a shaft and a hole, that determines whether they turn, slide or hold tightly. It is chosen according to the function of the assembly.

A measuring tool with a fixed scale and a sliding jaw, used to measure outside diameters, inside diameters and depths. The vernier or dial allows readings to a tenth of a millimetre or finer.

A precision measuring instrument with a screw-driven spindle, used for accurate outside measurements, commonly to one hundredth of a millimetre. It must be zeroed before use and handled gently to keep its accuracy.

A rigid tool with a right angle, used to check squareness, mark perpendicular lines and guide cuts. A damaged or worn square gives false results, so it must be checked and stored carefully.

A tool containing a liquid-filled vial with an air bubble, used to check whether a surface is horizontal or vertical. The bubble centres between the marks when the surface is true.

Marking out the shapes and positions of cuts, holes and joints on the material before working it. Accurate marking out, using a scriber, square and rule, prevents wasted material and misfitting parts.

Scheduled care of tools and equipment, such as cleaning, lubricating, tightening and replacing worn parts, carried out before breakdowns occur. It reduces downtime, extends machine life and keeps work accurate and safe.

A record sheet listing the maintenance operations, dates and persons responsible for a machine or tool. It provides a history that helps plan servicing and shows whether maintenance has actually been done.

The gradual loss of material or sharpness from a tool or machine part through use, causing poorer results and higher effort. Recognising wear early allows sharpening, adjustment or replacement before quality suffers.

Sharpening a cutting tool such as a chisel, plane iron, saw or drill bit to restore a correct edge angle. A sharp tool cuts accurately with less force and is safer than a blunt one that slips.

Personal protective equipment worn by the worker, including helmet, goggles, gloves, safety shoes, ear protection and dust mask. It is the last line of defence against injury when other controls cannot remove the risk.

The process of identifying hazards in a task, judging how likely and how serious harm could be, and deciding on controls before work starts. It is often recorded in a short written assessment for each job.

The procedure for making a machine or electrical installation safe before work: isolating it from energy, locking it off, and verifying that no energy remains. It prevents unexpected start-up or release of stored energy.

Separating waste at the point where it is produced, for example keeping metal offcuts, wood, plastics, oils and general refuse apart. It enables recycling, safe disposal of hazardous items and a cleaner workshop.

A document supplied with a chemical product that gives its hazards, safe handling, storage, first-aid and disposal instructions. Workers must read it before using an unfamiliar product such as a solvent, glue or paint.

A written quotation given to a customer before work begins, setting out the materials, labour, quantities, unit prices, total cost and validity period. When accepted it forms the basis of the contract and the invoice.

A commercial document issued after goods or services are supplied, showing what was provided, the price, any tax and the amount due. It supports payment claims and must match the agreed quotation or order.

A document by which a customer formally orders materials or services, stating items, quantities, prices and delivery details. It authorises the supplier to proceed and is checked against the delivery note on receipt.

The difference between the selling price and the total cost of producing or supplying the item, usually expressed as a percentage of the price. It must cover overheads and leave a profit for the business.

The total cost of producing a job or product, including materials, labour, energy, tool use and a share of overheads. Knowing it allows the craftsperson to set a selling price that is both competitive and profitable.

The money a small business needs to pay day-to-day costs, such as materials, wages and rent, while waiting for customers to pay. Too little working capital can stop a profitable business from operating.

The official register in which a business is entered with its name, activity, address and owner. Registration gives legal status, allows trading formally and is usually required to obtain credit, licences or public contracts.

The set of habits and arrangements that keep a work station safe: clear floor, correct lighting, guarded machines, tidy cables and materials stored out of walkways. It prevents slips, cuts, trips and machine accidents.

Keeping tools, materials and finished work in fixed, labelled places and returning them after use. Good housekeeping saves search time, protects tools from damage and removes hazards from the workshop floor.

Adjusting a machine table, workpiece or installation so that it is level or correctly aligned before work begins. Accurate levelling prevents inaccurate cuts, vibration and premature wear of equipment.

Clear, respectful and accurate exchange of information with customers, colleagues and supervisors, in speech and in writing. It includes listening, reporting problems early, confirming instructions and keeping records such as job sheets.

A short written or oral report of work done, problems met and decisions taken, given to a supervisor or customer. It allows follow-up, justifies time and materials used, and protects the worker if questions arise later.

Practices that keep the worker, the workshop and the product clean and free from contamination, such as washing hands, cleaning benches and covering food or sterile items. Essential in food, health-related and finishing trades.