\u201cGemba\u201d is a Japanese term for \u201cwhere the real work is done.\u201d In manufacturing, one of the best things your Kaizen or Process Improvement team can do is spend some time on the shop floor. There you see the problems of the workplace as they actually are \u2013 how the process is conducted and the various obstacles that are overcome by employees in the process.<\/p>\n
Why is this relevant to you as a PSM coordinator? Because unless you are also the only ammonia technician on staff, you can\u2019t be absolutely certain how the work is actually being done. Furthermore, if you don\u2019t have an ammonia refrigeration background then you are in for a nearly insurmountable challenge validating SOPs.<\/p>\n
So, let\u2019s say you aren\u2019t a qualified ammonia technician and you are in charge of implementing a PSM program. How should you prepare for that role? Here\u2019s my suggestion: Go Gemba! By that I mean: Get some practical hands-on experience.<\/p>\n
I\u2019ve attended GCAP Ammonia Operator I & II and think they are excellent. When I attended them I had already studied just about every bit of technical writing I could get my hands on so much of the curriculum was a re-hash. The real value for me was learning how the aspiring ammonia technician thought and watching Randy Williams communicate difficult abstract concepts through everyday language and clever metaphors.<\/p>\n
As an ammonia PSM coordinator, attending of the GCAP classes is an investment in your ability to effectively communicate with your ammonia technicians.<\/p>\n
You can get more information on the programs they offer at http:\/\/www.ammoniatraining.com\/<\/a>. Also, check out their podcasts at http:\/\/www.gcapcoolcast.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n * Note: You could technically skip step 1 & 2 because you\u2019ll get both at a GCAP class. I\u2019ve attended classes with a \u201cnew guy\u201d with no experience before and they almost always \u201cfelt overwhelmed\u201d. I think you can avoid that entirely if you have SOME practical knowledge \u2013 even if it\u2019s a week\u2019s worth.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" \u201cGemba\u201d is a Japanese term for \u201cwhere the real work is done.\u201d In manufacturing, one of the best things your Kaizen or Process Improvement team can do is spend some time on the shop floor. There you see the problems … Continue reading