Ergonomics and simulation-based approach in improving facility layout

Abstract

The use of the simulation-based technique in facility layout has been a choice in the industry due to its convenience and efficient generation of results. Nevertheless, the solutions generated are not capable of addressing delays due to worker's health and safety which significantly impact overall operational efficiency. It is, therefore, critical to incorporate ergonomics in facility design. In this study, workstation analysis was incorporated into Promodel simulation to improve the facility layout of a garment manufacturing. To test the effectiveness of the method, existing and improved facility designs were measured using comprehensive risk level, efficiency, and productivity. Results indicated that the improved facility layout generated a decrease in comprehensive risk level and rapid upper limb assessment score; an increase of 78% in efficiency and 194% increase in productivity compared to existing design and thus proved that the approach is effective in attaining overall facility design improvement.

Minimization of Personnel Absenteeism with the Application of Proposed Ergonomic Model in a Plastics Manufacturing Industry

“…In addition, the use of methodologies, such as the study of methods, Materials Handling System (MHS), Economy of Movements, and FLD, will allow us to obtain the necessary improvement proposals for the planning and development of new labour methodologies that do not incur ergonomic conditions for workers. Some examples include a new layout of the plant that decreases the distance between machines according to the work sequence, implements that help mitigate the health impacts presented by the handling of material loads, and new methodologies for carrying out their daily activities, among others [10].…”

Rediseño Ergonómico Para Disminuir Los TME En Procesos Manuales De Una Planta Del Sector De Glp Para Incrementar La Eficiencia

“…Para las líneas de producción que siguen la estructura de flujo continuo como el proceso de envasado de GLP; la gran cantidad de movimientos resultan repetitivas y agotadoras [34] dando como resultado posibles lesiones en operarios [24] y los costos adicionales asociados con la recuperación [16]. La revisión de la literatura muestra que la mayor parte de la investigación sobre intervenciones de ergonomía se ha centrado principalmente en la primera etapa: la evaluación ergonómica y no continúan con la implementación de las mejoras en los lugares de trabajo [35], pero algunos artículos indican resultados exitosos.…”