Pioneering ergonomic enhancements
Adam Soural, a production and ergonomics specialist at SMC, has been leading efforts to enhance working conditions on the production lines. His initiatives, combined with valuable employee feedback, has sparked an ergonomic revolution. By leveraging advanced technologies and augmented reality, he initially identified the optimal work surface heights, which led to the purchase of electric-adjustable lifting systems to further improve ergonomics.
"The Japanese 5S principle has been integral from the start. The varying heights of operators prompted us to focus more on ergonomics, considering European legislation. Initially, we adjusted the work surface height, which was not optimal. Now, with the CARAA application, we monitor the workspace in real-time, allowing us to make precise adjustments", Soural explains.
The quest for the best partner: Collaboration with LINAK®
Recognising the need for work surfaces of various heights, SMC sought a reliable supplier. Height-adjustable office desks were considered but found unsuitable due to constraints on load and dimension. The search led to LINAK, whose solutions perfectly aligned with SMC's requirements.
"We found LINAK to be the ideal partner. Their proximity was an added advantage", SMC employees say. The collaboration began with a pilot project focused on industrial workstations with specific requirements. The successful pilot tests confirmed LINAK as the ideal partner for this endeavour.
Today, numerous ergonomic desks powered by LINAK DESKLINE lifting-column systems or LINAK DESK FRAME 2 are in use at SMC's production hall.
Transforming the quality inspection area
One standout example is the transformation of the final quality inspection area. The introduction of lifting columns has significantly reduced issues related to ergonomics. Quality operators have welcomed the height-adjustable work surfaces.
"The height adjustment allows us to set the work surface to the optimal height for frequent measuring and visual tasks. This has relieved problems with muscles and joints caused by previous workspaces", they appreciated.
Investing in employee health is investing in the future
By teaming up with LINAK, SMC has not only greatly improved workplace ergonomics but also set a new standard for creating attractive, healthy, and productive working conditions. This collaboration highlights SMC's commitment to innovation, employee well-being, and operational excellence, serving as an inspiration for other companies.
Managers who care about their employees' long-term health will eventually adopt these measures. While you can't buy health, you can invest in technologies that promote it. LINAK provides these essential solutions
SMC Corporation, a global leader in industrial automation, has a strong presence in 83 countries, including the Czech Republic. The Czech subsidiary, SMC Industrial Automation CZ s.r.o, based in Brno, is a key player in the local industrial automation sector. Offering a wide range of solutions, including pneumatic and electric motors, valves, sensors, and other essential components, SMC is dedicated to optimising manufacturing processes. Their team of specialists ensures enhanced effectiveness, productivity, and ergonomics across various industries.
SMC Industrial Automation CZ s.r.o office building
