Over the past few weeks we have been sharing some great examples of 5S improvements across some of our Cemex UK sites.

5S projects are a fantastic opportunity for sharing and learning across all sites in the UK.

This week are sharing some excellent 5S improvements made at some of our Dry Mortar Plants. Thanks to the teams for sharing these with us and well done for undertaking the following improvements.

Refurbishment Centre Dove Holes:

Sort – When carrying out concrete spraying trials we have panels hanging upside down (3 metres high) and at 45 degrees angles, and once these boxes are sprayed they can weigh over 300 kgs.  To ensure that this work is carried out safely we have developed a procedure to construct a scaffolding frame to tidy the site and carry out this work in a safe orderly manner.

Set in Order – We have trialled many ways to lower the panels safely, which we have been successful, however, we always thought there could be a better way.

Shine – The DSM team came up with a modification of a lifting eye and spreader bar embedded within the hardened concrete in the box.  We are able to locate a tested strap to a crane on the silo delivery vehicle and safe in controlled fashion, lower the panels to the ground.

Standardise – The DSM team carried out a Risk Assessment and produced a SSOW to safely lower these panels for future trials and ensured everyone involved is trained.

Sustain – Continually review and ensure any new staff are trained before allowing them to carry out this task.

Braintree Welfare Facilities: – See photos

Sort – We had outdated welfare facilities which no longer met the need of additional shifts, staff and drivers. There was also no provision for female staff/visitors to get changed, showered or have some general privacy.

Set in Order – With more and more female employees within the industry it is required to segregate each other and make people feel more comfortable at work. We also have increased our staffing numbers which meant we needed larger welfare facilities.

Shine – Along with a new purpose built changing/shower facility, we open planned the old facility and renewed the kitchen and flooring to create a comfortable environment which also doubles up to a meeting/training room, particularly good for stand down or safety alert reviews.

Standardise – We are looking to replicate this design at our other outlets including our new proposed plant at Swindon.

Sustain – Cemex Dry Mortar is looking to further expand into bagging operations and additional silo refurbishment locations. We hope to implement these types of facilities across the business to create a better working environment.