If you are a factory manager you are probably looking for ways to maximise productivity. Getting the right conditions within the working areas could be critical: the right temperature, humidity, air quality and lighting could be the answer to provide a comfortable work environment.
Is there more you could do to improve your factory’s productivity?
Is there a problem?
There are a number of indicators that can suggest all is not as well as it could be:
- Variations in production quality or volume. The summary of incidents over a set period of time will enable you to identify the most common occurrences. An analysis of the prevailing conditions at the time of the incidents with the biggest impact or the most frequent ones will reveal common patterns and highlight underlying issues.
- Staff complaints. As the plant manager, you keep track of your staff complaints and ensure they are dealt with. However, a more detailed analysis of the complaints you receive may reveal some trends or patterns that indicate an underlying problem.
How to identify the problem
Once you know you have an issue, in order to find a solution you will need to identify the source of the problem by:
- Analysing the frequency and impact of the most common incidents, and the prevailing conditions at the time: was the incident a result of a lapse in attention due to excessive heat? Was there too much noise?
- Asking your staff about the way the see the issue, to get a clear picture of their perception of existing conditions.
- Looking at the building’s construction to identify any factors that may affect the comfort or efficiency of your staff.
- Analysing the activities carried out in the building and how they may affect the conditions within the building (e.g. do they generate noise, fumes, heat, etc.).
Finding a solution
If you think you may have a problem and would like a professional survey of your facility to identify the best solution, you can either contact us for a free survey or download our guide to factory surveys.
Factory survey
If your building is too hot or too cold, if your process gives off fume or moisture, if your product requires specific conditions during its manufacture or storage, or if noise is a concern, then we may be able to help you.
Paul Langford is an Engineering Director with experience in product development, manufacturing and testing for HVAC, solar shading, louvre systems and smoke control applications.
