Structure-Flex Embraces Lean Manufacturing
07 March 2008 11:26
Structure-flex Limited, one of the UK's most successful bulk packaging solutions providers and a leading supplier of vehicle tension curtains and lifting products, has further strengthened its market position by embracing the Lean Manufacturing concept. In steps to increase efficiency and minimise waste, the company has used external consultants to implement Overall Equipment Efficiency [OEE] and Quality Cost and Delivery [QCD] programmes.
The concept of Lean Manufacturing has its roots in the automotive sector and is heavily influenced by Japanese work practices. It is a systematic approach aimed at focussing the attention of the entire company workforce on creating processes to ensure that waste is eliminated and products are manufactured only when they are needed.
"The first stage of the Lean process is to clean up the workplace and standardise working procedures," explains Managing Director, Ian Doughty. "Consequently, we have put an internal 5S initiative in place. This is also a Japanese practice which focuses on visual order and cleanliness, involving the removal of unneeded items from the shop floor. Red tagging, shadow boards and team notice boards keep people informed of the processes."
He goes on to say: "The project is well under way using the 'kan-ban' system to guarantee that every day items, such as buckles, runners and bolts, are on hand. Visual indications help stores personnel to ensure that stocks of such items are always topped up within specified minimum/maximum levels."
Communication is key to the success of the Lean Manufacturing process, and Structure-flex has already introduced daily team reviews within its transport and signs and graphics departments to share information.
Ian Doughty finishes by saying: "Structure-flex has earned a reputation for the supply of first class products to the world's food, pharmaceutical, chemical and oil and gas industries, and is a leading supplier of vehicle tension curtains and lifting products to the transport industry. Our aim is to give our customers excellent products at competitive prices, and we believe that the introduction of Lean Manufacturing processes will help us to continue to achieve these aims."
For more information on this company:
Structure-flex - Bulk Handling Systems
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