Applying the principles of lean manufacturing to optimize conduit installation process

Abstract

To meet the ever-increasing demand for concrete shelters that house telecommunication equipment, the construction company under study has hired several new employees and grouped them to work in teams; however, the expected increase in production has not been achieved consistently. The objective of this study is to apply the principles of lean manufacturing to identify root causes for productivity variations in their conduit installation process and suggesting ways of improvement. By observing the conduit installation process on-site and timing each task, non-value-added activities that prohibit productivity were recognized, including rework, talking, employee interference, and gathering materials and tools. Based on the findings, we suggested the company to implement training modules to help standardize work methods, prepare assembly kits, move supply carts closer to the work sites, and optimize team size. These suggestions help reduce the non-value-added procedures and add time to productive work. © 2013 Springer Science+Business Media New York.