Safety Transformation at Thermo Fisher Scientific, East Tamaki*
View PDFThermo Fisher Scientific, based in East Tamaki, Auckland, is a prominent manufacturer of lab plasticware, sample storage, and management products. Concerns about machine and plant safety prompted a comprehensive safety evaluation, revealing outdated machinery and a lack of regular safety assessments. The subsequent incidents led to a thorough safety inspection.
Planning:
The planning stage presented challenges as our team had to prioritise objectives based on critical safety ratings. Outdated machinery required a comprehensive review to address declining machine safety over time.
Implementation:
To minimise manufacturing interruptions, our team developed robust attack plans, focusing on effective timing and communication. The implementation phase comprised 45 sub-projects, each addressing multiple machines. This strategic approach ensured the systematic upgrade of critical safety features.
Education:
Educating staff on new safety features and changes posed challenges due to language barriers, rotating shifts, and contracted staff. Clear communication and targeted training sessions were key to overcoming these hurdles.
Machine Inspections and Modernization:
Comprehensive machine inspections were conducted, with each machine assigned its parts list, plan, and installation schedule. Modern safety technology was systematically installed across all machines, enhancing overall safety measures.
Progress Updates and Evaluation:
The implementation phase concluded with all 45 sub-projects successfully completed. Critical safety features were effectively implemented. Regular updates, communicated through boardroom meetings with Thermo Fisher Scientific’s top leaders, ensured transparency and alignment with project goals.
Post-Upgrade Inspection:
As part of the evaluation process, contracted safety inspectors conducted a thorough post-upgrade re-inspection of machine safety features. The assessment revealed that 100% of sub-projects were complete, highlighting the progress made and the effectiveness of the implemented safety measures.
Staff Education and Ongoing Communication:
Continued staff education remained a priority, ensuring everyone was informed about safety feature upgrades and potential changes in machine operations. Weekly updates and ongoing communication sessions maintained a collaborative approach between the project team and Thermo Fisher Scientific’s staff.
Conclusion:
The safety enhancement project at Thermo Fisher Scientific, East Tamaki, demonstrates the successful integration of modern safety technology into a complex manufacturing environment. Through strategic planning, effective implementation, and ongoing communication, critical safety features were upgraded, providing a safer working environment. The collaboration between our team and Thermo Fisher Scientific underscores our commitment to addressing safety concerns in manufacturing settings.