Updated Environmental Scanning

Objective: How to help employees have a better understanding on the flow of a process in a manufacturing plant.

IntroductionMy training manual will serve as an informational guidebook in most small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) involved in the manufacturing industry. Besides detailed step-by-step instructions for workers to follow during a production process, the guidebook will also include information related to maintenance procedures, keeping inventory records, quality control, and essential safety information. Upon successful implementation of this training program which supports the HR theory of job enlargement, the manufacturing plant will be able to operate at its optimal level. Additionally, unnecessary time wastage will be eliminated, thus shortening delivery lead time. While all efforts are dedicated to promoting efficiency, an equal emphasis will be placed on quality control and safety.

Such a training manual is essential so that workers are educated on the operating procedures and safety standards while on the job; it is important that workers are well-equipped with this knowledge so that valuable time will not be wasted. This will directly affect the plant’s output, thus causing profit levels to suffer.

 Identify conditions for training needs

1. Economy- An efficient production plant is essential so that there is maximum worker output, higher productivity will lead to higher profits. An organization’s financial condition will reflect healthily if profits are being brought in. An efficient production plant should also operate effectively so that minimal mistakes are made; with lesser mistakes made, more time is saved.
2. Government & Legal- It is important for management to be aware of labor laws and compensation rates so that it will not be involved with any unnecessary legal disputes. Management should also understand environmental, safety, or pollution concerns within the area of operation so that it does not jeopardize the environment or worker’s health. Laws that favor business investment/expansion should be known to management so that there is a chance for the organization to expand its business.

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3. Technology- Workers should be trained to operate machinery and conduct maintenance procedures. They must know the potential safety hazards and safety precautions to enforce so that they are well-protected. Additionally, it is important that this knowledge is shared among all workers so that it does not pose as a problem if someone is absent from work that particular day. The company should provide workers with the necessary and suitable equipments to work with in order for them to operate effectively and efficiently. On-the-job-training could be implemented to update workers with new information or any necessary product/ operating knowledge that they should be aware of.
4. Socio-cultural- Age could be a rough gauge as to how effectively an operator can perform. For example, a small-built person might not be able to carry boxes that are over a certain weight. The organization should strive to employ the correct person for the job; educational level could be used to employ effectively.
5. Working environment- Working conditions must be designed such that workers can operate efficiently and effectively without any dangerous threats. Worker’s safety should be emphasized so that no injuries or accidents are sustained while on the job.
6. Labor supply- The quantity and quality of the labor supply should be understood so that management can plan effectively. To cope with periods when there are more orders, management can consider employing part-time workers who are compensated on an hourly basis.
7. Ecology- Emphasis must be made in manufacturing a product such that it does not cause any environmental hazards. E.g. not using CFC which contributes to ozone depletion.