by Principles of Motion Economy focus on optimizing the efficiency of workers by reducing unnecessary movements, ensuring that work is done in the simplest, most effective manner. These principles are vital in industrial engineering and work-study techniques to enhance productivity and reduce fatigue. Frank and Lillian Gilbreth, pioneers in time and motion study, developed these principles.
1. Use of the Human Body:
- Principle: The human body should perform the least number of motions to accomplish a task. Movements should be made with the least effort, and motions should be performed smoothly without fatigue.
- Application: When lifting objects, the body should be used to its full advantage. For example, lifting an object should involve the legs and not the back, as it is more efficient and reduces strain.
- Objective: Minimize unnecessary muscle strain and increase the speed of work without tiring the worker.
2. Arrangement of Tools and Equipment:
- Principle: Tools and equipment should be arranged in the most efficient order. The workstation should be designed so that tools and materials are within easy reach.
- Application: In a production setting, tools should be placed at arm level or within easy reach to avoid excessive movement. This includes placing the frequently used tools closest to the worker.
- Objective: Reduce unnecessary reaching, bending, or moving to get tools, enhancing work speed and reducing fatigue.
3. Standardization of Tools and Equipment:
- Principle: Use standard tools and equipment wherever possible to reduce the complexity and time spent on adjustments.
- Application: Standardized tools mean workers do not have to adapt to new or multiple tools frequently. For example, using the same screwdriver for different screws minimizes tool changes and learning time.
- Objective: Increase efficiency by reducing the time spent on switching tools, making adjustments, and training workers.
4. Avoidance of Unnecessary Motions:
- Principle: Unnecessary motions such as twisting, reaching, or bending should be eliminated.
- Application: When a worker is moving materials, the process should be streamlined so that the worker does not make extra movements. For example, materials should be positioned at the correct height to avoid bending or stretching.
- Objective: Reducing fatigue, preventing injury, and enhancing efficiency.
5. Use of Both Hands Simultaneously:
- Principle: Whenever possible, use both hands simultaneously to perform tasks. This ensures that tasks are done faster and with more control.
- Application: Tasks like assembling components should involve both hands rather than using one hand at a time, increasing the speed and accuracy of the work.
- Objective: Improve productivity by making use of both hands for the task at hand, minimizing idle time.
6. Elimination of Unnecessary Motions:
- Principle: Avoid movements that do not add value to the process or task.
- Application: For example, when transferring materials from one point to another, workers should avoid extra motions, like walking in circles or moving objects unnecessarily.
- Objective: Cut down on time wastage, reduce errors, and prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the body.
7. Workplace Layout:
- Principle: The arrangement of workstations should follow a logical and systematic order to make work flow smoothly.
- Application: In a factory, tools, materials, and the workstation should be arranged in the order that best supports the steps of the task. For example, an assembly line where parts are passed in a specific sequence reduces wasted motion.
- Objective: Streamline operations, avoid unnecessary movement between workstations, and maintain a continuous workflow.
8. Minimization of Hand Movements:
- Principle: The hand movement should be minimized, and each movement should be purposeful.
- Application: For instance, in assembly line work, workers should be trained to complete tasks with minimal hand movements. Each motion should be intentional and productive, not repetitive or redundant.
- Objective: Speed up work processes and reduce worker fatigue.
9. Work Simplification:
- Principle: Tasks should be simplified to reduce the number of steps and motions required.
- Application: For example, if assembling a product requires 10 steps, finding ways to combine or eliminate redundant actions can simplify the task. Tools or equipment may be redesigned to make steps easier.
- Objective: Simplification leads to greater efficiency, reduces errors, and makes the process less taxing on workers.
10. Proper Posture:
- Principle: Workers should be encouraged to maintain a good posture while performing tasks to avoid strain and improve efficiency.
- Application: In physical tasks, workers should be trained to maintain an ergonomic posture that prevents bending, slouching, or twisting, which can lead to injury and inefficiency.
- Objective: Maintaining proper posture helps reduce worker fatigue, prevents long-term health issues, and increases productivity.
