1.) Product
2.) Machinery
3.) Labor
4.) Material Handling
5.) Plant site
6.) Auxiliary Services
7.) Building
8.) Future Changes
1.) Product
The layout will depend on the characteristics of the product like size, shape, volume, weight, etc. If the product is heavy, then a fixed layout will be a good option. In the case of a small product that requires mass production, then a line or product layout should be chosen.
2.) Machinery
If the machinery is heavy and required for a special purpose, then the product layout is preferred. On another side, if machinery is required for general purposes, then process layout will be the best option. It is essential to know about the space, shape, height, weight, the number of machines & equipment required for the project.
3.) Labor
Labour has to be organized in the production process. The size of the labour and staff affects the layout of the plant. Personnel qualifications, flexibility, the number of workers required at a given time, the type of work to be performed are the things that should be kept in mind.
4.) Material Handling
The type, nature, weight, quantity, quality, storage space for material must be considered while taking the facility layout decision. It is the material that determines the quality and efficiency of the output. If possible, eliminating unnecessary and costly movements of material which will ensure a smooth flow of production.
5.) Plant site
The geographical location is also an important factor to be considered while deciding on plant layout. The connectivity with rail, roads, or water shows the smooth flow of inputs and outputs. In this case, management can go with less space for storage.
6.) Auxiliary Services
Auxiliary Services Support the main production activities at the plant
a.) Related to labor - Accessibility paths, fire protection installations, supervision, safety, etc.
b.) Related to the material - Quality control.
c.) Related to machinery - Maintenance and supply of electricity and water.
7.) Building
There are two options available with the company to construct the building as per their requirement or to shift to a ready-to-move-in building. If the company selecting a ready-to-move-in building, then the company should check that the building can fulfill its purpose of installing the layout of a specific type.
8.) Future Changes
The layout of the plant should be flexible. It’s important to forecast future changes to make modifications in the plant whenever required. It should also be taken into consideration that, if any extensions of the facility required in the future, then it can be done without any difficulties.
0 Comments