THE CHALLENGE:
A rapidly expanding Mining operation in Western Australia had experienced growth over a four-year period that had exceeded its business plan and resource forecast.
This meant that additional equipment and employees were joining the business on a monthly basis.
The company was now exposed to a range of asset management and training issues in a continuously changing and transient environment.
It had become necessary to promote organisational safety and efficiency in the workplace in order to prevent the waste and losses occurring.
THE SOLUTION:
A Lean 5S program was implemented to enable safe, efficient and visual improvement of the workplace. Roles were standardised with simple training mechanisms designed to transfer knowledge quickly and efficiently to new employees.
Business waste within all office and workshop environments was identified and addressed through the eight (8) areas targeted within a standard lean program.
The eight (8) areas targeted were: Transport, Inventory, Motion, Waiting, Over-Processing, Over Production, Defects and Resources.
THE RESULT:
A clean, tidy and standardised work environment that is easy to sustain the 5S program, including schedules, audits, and visual workplace with appropriate reward and recognition program.
- Less inventory being held by the business
- Increased safety through removal of potential hazards
- Increased work and storage space
- Colour-coding work areas promoting safety and organisation
- Standardised filing and storing systems
- Increased efficiency in work execution
- Efficient training and systems
An interchangeable work force.