Improving Observation Skills
Scenario: Shift Changes
In today’s global economy, manufacturers must be more responsive than ever to keep up with the fast changing demands of their customers. As companies look at producing smaller batches and lean manufacturing, many are moving to a 7-day schedule because an idle machine is considered a lost opportunity.
Continuous operation requires people to work shifts. Shift change disturbs the production flow and brings a new set of eyes to the machines. So information needs to be accurately exchanged between shifts to ensure safety and efficiency. Because communication is also prone to error, it is important everyone pays attention and is aware of potential problems and safety issues.
Watch the video
Watch professionals in advanced manufacturing discuss how they communicate potential safety and technical problems in shift changes, morning meetings, and huddles.
Meet the Partners:
- Taconic High School in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is a comprehensive, fully accredited high school with special programs in Health Technology, Manufacturing Technology, and Work-Based Learning.
- Berkshire Community College in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, prepares its students with applied manufacturing technical skills, providing hands-on experience at industrial laboratories and manufacturing facilities, and instructing them in current technologies.
- H.C. Starck in Newton, Massachusetts, specializes in processing and manufacturing technology metals, such as tungsten, niobium, and tantalum. In almost 100 years of experience, they hold over 900 patents, and continue to innovate and develop new products.
- Nypro Healthcare in Devens, Massachusetts, specializes in precision injection-molded healthcare products. They are committed to good manufacturing processes including lean manufacturing and process validation.
Idea Log
Think about what you’ve learned so far about observation and paying attention. What are some of the most important lessons you have learned?