Labor Utilization and Man to Machine Ratio Study at a Semiconductor Facility

Productivity is manufacturing industry’s main concern. There are many alternatives available for improving productivity. Thus, this study is about improving productivity through identifying current labor utilization before ideal man to machine ratio can be determined using work study methodology. Maynard Operational Sequence Technique (MOST) is the predetermined time standards work measurement tool used to measure operator’s activities in a production line at a semiconductor facility. The aim is to observe the sequence of tasks performed by operators, time these activities and analyze the data using a specially designed template to determine the current utilization of the operator, and propose the ideal man to machine ratio for the company. From this study, the value added and non value added activities can also be determined in order to propose to the management on area to focus to further improve the productivity. The improvements when implemented will enable the company to reduce the operational costs and enable it to achieve competitive advantage among other competitors