What can be done to reduce the amount of times material is moved or handled?
- context Combining operation locations.
- context Shortening carrying distances.
- context Monitoring inventory so that stock is not moved more than necessary.
- context Optimize the movement of materials to eliminate unnecessary manual handling steps. Options include:
- context Use conveyors, slides, or chutes to link workstations and storage areas to reduce carrying distance.
- context Use an "air" table to help slide packages across a surface.
- context Use vertical or horizontal carousels to rotate materials closer to the worker.
- context Store materials close to where they are needed.
- context Use rollers to eliminate manual lifting and carrying.
- context Use floor rollers while loading or unloading trucks to reduce lifting.
- context Use a sliding bed while loading and unloading small trucks to avoid overreaching and carrying in an awkward position.
- context Eliminate extra loading or unloading steps where possible.
- context Unload as close as possible to the place where the material will be needed.
- context Use ramps to avoid lifting and dragging over edges.
- context Use containers that allow fluids to pour or empty without lifting the container.
- context Use a siphon or pump to move liquids instead of lifting the container. For hazardous liquids, make sure appropriate controls and procedures are followed, including grounding and bonding for flammable liquids and personal protective equipment.
- context Use a powered stair climber to reduce the effort and force needed to move loads up and down stairs.
- context Use a vacuum lift to eliminate manual lifting and carrying of large packages, containers, boxes and barrels.