PROVIDE A SAFE, COMFORTABLE
WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Increased productivity can be obtained by providing
a work area where materials and supplies are
conveniently located. Adequate lighting should be
provided (40–50 foot-candles). Minimum standards
should be met—levels can be measured with an
inexpensive light meter.
Work areas should be clean of debris, waste, and
hazards. Electrical equipment should be grounded,
and ground fault interrupters used on portable
equipment. Safety equipment such as eyeglasses,
earplugs, and gloves should be available to
employees.
Covered areas should be provided for operations
such as potting, canning, and maintenance. Heat
should also be provided to maintain a minimum
of 60°F in the work area. Unit heaters or infrared
heaters work well for this application.
Equipment Selection Basics
UPDATE OLD EQUIPMENT
With new methods and technological advances,
some equipment depreciates and becomes obsolete.
Evaluate present machinery to see if it should be
replaced. New equipment may increase output per
man hour, improve product quality, and reduce
maintenance costs and downtime.
ALTERNATIVES TO PURCHASING
EQUIPMENT
Renting/leasing allows limited use of equipment
without a large investment. Sharing equipment such
as a shredder, potting machine, or sterilizer between
neighbors may be a viable alternative. Custom
potting and transplanting services are available in
some areas and may reduce costs or labor during
peak periods.
OBTAIN MANAGEMENT SUPPORT
In larger organizations, it is best to get the input and
support of management before proceeding too far in
updating equipment. This is valuable for obtaining
needed funds and resources.