The
Newsletter of Lean Manufacturing & Factory Science
30
August
2005
www.strategosinc.com
Workstation Design
& Ergonomics
Ultimately,
value is added at the workstation level where
products are built. Eliminating waste here is just as important as
eliminating it through inventory, material handling and in other areas.
The
Principles of Motion
Economy, developed by Ralph M. Barnes over 70 years ago, are an
excellent tool for the productivity side of workstation
design. However, productivity is not the only issue. An effective design
is not just productive;
it protects workers from ergonomic injury.
Our
new Ergonomics pages provide a concise overview of topics that apply to manufacturing.
They include Physiology, Anthropometrics,
Biomechanics and functional allocation. Our "Principles
of Ergonomics" mirror Barne's principles and provide a practical
tool for design.
Many
designers see conflict between productivity and ergonomics. But, the use
of both Motion Economy and Ergonomics is not only possible, it
is essential. There is rarely a true conflict between productivity and ergonomic objectives.
Our
new pages on Workstation
Design illustrate a structured, step-by-step approach for designers that
incorporates both Ergonomics and Motion Economy.
Designing
workstations is just one aspect of the plant layout and Facilities
Planning. For more information, you may download a free copy of my book,
"Facilities and Workplace Design".
Quarterman
Lee
You
may forward Lean Briefing to colleagues or use it in your publication.
Please do so in its entirety.
©2004 Strategos, Inc.
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