Lean Manufacturing System is a systematic method to minimize waste without compromising productivity in a manufacturing environment (Production).
Waste
According to Lean, any non-value added action or step is waste.
Type of Wastes:
There are 8 types of wastes on which Lean manufacturing system is focusing.
- Defects –
- Over Production
- Waiting
- Non Utilized Talent
- Transportation
- Inventory
- Motion
- Extra Processing
Lean and EHS Relationship
Initially it was believed that lean manufacturing system is only to improve quality, productivity and to minimize the waste. But according to research it was found that lean manufacturing/management system can help to comply with Social compliance requirements.
Nike also started using Lean Manufacturing system (Toyota Manufacturing system) for efficiency. Nike also conducts audits to labour and HSE practices in its supply chain. After implementation of lean system, scoring of suppliers was improved in their Labour and health, safety and environment performance by approximately 15%. There were impacts on over time, workplace safety, emission, solid waste.
Whole Lean Manufacturing/ management system can help improve health, safety and environmental compliance at workplace especially 6S and Kaizen system that drive continuous improvement.
Below mentioned book Could really help to understand more on Lean Manufacturing system and it impacts.
Read more here on EHS Compliance Requirements
