Packing Shed Layout:
Problem: |
One Solution: |
Packing produce in an unsystematic manner
wastes time and effort. |
Design a well-organized, clear, step-by-step
task and product flow. |
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No clear path for product and workers to
follow. |
Straight line flow for product and worker. |
Wash tubs do not drain; they must be carried
and tipped to empty them away from
work area. |
Drain empties washtub and drainpipe leads
dirty wash water away from work area. |
Table height inappropriate for task or individual
worker. |
Table heights adjusted to fit task and individual. |
Used window screens are difficult to sanitize. |
Screen tables made from galvanized hardware
cloth are easy to sanitize. |
No shade for workers or produce. |
Shade has been provided for the workers
and produce. |
Clutter impedes efficient work. |
Supplies are kept where they are needed. |
Packing Shed Layout
Why Analyze My
Packing Shed Layout?
You may be able to save time and effort by slightly
changing your current routine or habits.
How Can I Analyze My
Packing Area?
On paper, diagram the flow of your product from
field to packing box to cooler or truck, and note
work stations. Have an outsider describe the flow so
you don't overlook any details you might take for
granted. You can also videotape the packing
process.
Will Rearranging My Packing Area
Save Me Money?
Any time saved during produce packing will save
money. Indirect savings will occur from creating a
more comfortable work area that will be healthier
and less hazardous for you. If your produce moves
more quickly through the packing process it will
maintain higher quality and be fresher when
packed.
What Are Some Considerations for
Efficient Packing Area Layout?
- Consider the general "flow" of the produce you
will be handling. Try to create a step-by-step product
line that doesn't waste effort. For example, do
all of your crops need to be washed? Do some
need to be spray-washed and others dunked? Do
you need both water and electricity at some work
stations but not others? Could you run two product
lines that intersect at a shared work station
that has water and electricity? Could you make
the product lines intersect at a shared work station
where boxes are packed, for example? Or circular
product lines that intersect at the shared
work station? Could you use some sections of
roller table?
- Is your space large enough for your packing
needs?
- Is there plenty of light?
- Is the floor level and smooth to allow you to use
wheeled carts or hand trucks? Concrete is most
effective, followed by asphalt and packed road base
or gravel. Dirt or wood chips hold water and
are unsanitary.
- Do you have enough water to frequently change
wash water? Do wash tubs drain away from the
work area? Could you use a splash guard or collecting
trough under a screen table? Do you have
a hand washing station?
- Is there enough shade for both produce and workers?
Would it help to suspend a tarp, mosquito
net, or fan?
- Are supplies such as bags or rubber bands kept
where they are needed? Are other items kept out
of the way (perhaps overhead)? Is the scale
handy and easy to use?
- Are your work station heights adjusted to the individual
workers? Efficient work height is half-way
between wrist and elbow, measured when the arm
is held down at the worker's side. Could some
workers use a stepstool? Consider setting up
work stations so that you move produce toward
your leading hand, for example from left to right
for right-handed people. You will have more control
and be more accurate.
- Do electrical cords and outlets have Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupters? They are cheap and easy to
install.
Contact Information
This material was developed by the Healthy Farmers,
Healthy Profits Project, whose goal is to find and
share work efficiency tips that maintain farmers' health
and safety and also increase profits. For more information,
visit our web site at http://bse.wisc.edu/hfhp/ or call 608-265-9451.
Healthy Farmers, Healthy Profits Project, Department
of Biological Systems Engineering, College of
Agricultural and Life Sciences,
University of Wisconsin, 460 Henry
Hall, Madison, WI 53706.
Feel free to reproduce; please
mention source.
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