The food processing industry is large and complex, and in most cases requires state or federal safety criteria to be observed during each phase of the food processing workflow. These criteria are often defined by a specific set of rules and regulations depending upon the processes in play. For safety managers to be able to ensure that proper safety protocol is being followed at all times in…
Six Sigma is a manufacturing methodology that can easily get confusing. With statistics and its vast number of tools, it is important to understand the basics of implementation for a successful Six Sigma project. When it comes to integrating Six Sigma into your facility, there are two methods one can use as a guiding force. Both of these methods are based off of W. Edwards Deming’s Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle.…
Looking for a way to make your warehouse more manageable? Building a guiding system is the most important thing businesses can do to maximize warehouse efficiency. Without a sufficient guidance system, navigating warehouses and storage centers can feel like getting dropped off in the middle of forest you’ve never been to, then commanded to find your way home. With seemingly endless rows with racks and racks of…
5S is an element of Lean Manufacturing, providing workers and managers alike with a visually simple, logical system to organize work areas in both office and manufacturing environments. The goal of 5S is to ‘streamline’ the business and manufacturing plant, enhancing both worker focus and safety. Another benefit, for those bean counters in your midst, is a positive influence on a company’s bottom line, or earning potential.…
When you manufacture something, production is never on one constant level. Instead there are peaks and valleys that you will need to account for in your business. Products may be discontinued, altered, or even recalled, and demand is a constantly changing number. having a flexible manufacturing process will make it significantly easier to respond to production changes Kanban is a flexible system that is able to help…
Along with maintaining the vehicle, any forklift operator must use safety precautions while driving it. You must remind yourself of how dangerous these vehicles can be and avoid situations that put you and other employees at risk. This includes any kind of horseplay on or around the equipment. There is always temptation to fool around and play games at work, but the potential for disaster is too…
Kaizen is the idea of having continuous improvement in the workplace bycontinuously making small incremental changes throughout time that will add up to a larger impact on the manufacturing process and ultimately the bottom line. Implementing the tools of Kaizen and going through Kaizen activities are important for the success and businesses may take different approaches. Daily Kaizen is often used to address smaller improvements while Kaizen…
Pipe marking is essential to any workplace that transports liquids or substances throughout their facility via pipes. Having an effective pipe marking strategy often requires more than just printing a simple label and putting it on a pipe. Whether it’s ANSI/ASME standards or just tips from the pros, the following are best practices to consider before embarking on your pipe labeling journey. Requirements for Pipe Marking While…
Having a visual factory is essential for keeping a workplace runningsmoothly. It can greatly improve safety, increase efficiency, and promote organization in nearly any type of workplace. There are several components that go into an effective visual communication strategy including using signs, labels, and floor marking. Floor marking encompasses several components like floor tape, floor shapes, and floor signs/floor stickers. Floor tapes come in many different colors…
Organization in the workplace is essential in keeping a facility efficient and workers safe. By taking a few simple steps and implementing easy organization practices, you’ll find workers will not have to spend extra time searching for specific materials and tools, thus ensuring your customers will receive their orders as fast as possible. There are several areas and spaces around a workplace that could use some practical…