Banish Waste from Civil Engineering Operations Applying Lean Thinking

Abstract

The paper uses Lean Thinking frame work together with survey data derived on waste. Data indicates that civil engineering operations in general and construction in particular are the most waste intensive operations comparing other sectors. Lean principles were first applied to manufacturing sectors where direct waste generation by weight is the least. Therefore objective of this paper is to answer the diversified problems related to different type of waste and impact on economy of the specific sector. Original concept of such waste measured in tons may not cover the essence of waste in totality because it only describes visible waste. During past studies researchers argued that anything more than minimum materials, equipment, manpower, time required for the product or service would amount to waste. Inclusion of vast scope of civil engineering operations in this exploratory review to banish waste may apparently appear odd. However, we researchers aim to examine the truth in the claim on lean thinking as the single most powerful tool available for creating value while eliminating waste, in any organization, in any industry and in any country. Keywords: