Scrap materials can sometimes pile up on the shop floor,
especially when a plant ramps up production in order to meet peaks
in demand. Excess scrap can lead to safety issues and cleanup
costs; however, waste extends beyond trash in the manufacturing
setting. Here is an expanded definition of "waste" and
some cost-effective ways to help reduce it.
Waste Redefined
Profitable manufacturers strive to make as many products as
possible using limited resources. Efficient production starts with
waste reduction efforts that focus on:
- Scrap (leftovers from the production
process);
- Energy consumption;
- Defects;
- Motion;
- Transport;
- Queue time; and
- Inventory.
Preventive maintenance, routine physical inspections and
effective quality control are the keys to operational efficiency.
Do you conduct ongoing maintenance on equipment? Doing so can
ensure that each machine is properly calibrated and running
smoothly. Rather than wait for an equipment failure,
