Increasing Operator Availability and Reducing Downtime A Case Study at an Automotive Company

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to examine operator-related downtime in an automotive manufacturing company and to explore how workstation design can improve operator availability. Using a literature study, work sampling, production data, and interviews, the authors identified the main causes of downtime - material handling, loading delays, late arrival, rotation, and staff missing. The proposals pertain to improving competence, relatedness, and autonomy along with increasing accountability to enhance operator performance and overall productivity.