Attributes of an Ideal Shop Floor Manager

• Must know his Job

1. His specific responsibilities
2. Who are his customers and what are their needs and priorities
3. Who are his suppliers (Purchase, Stores, Shops prior to his in the manufacturing sequence) and what are their limitations and what support / clarifications they need form him so that they can serve him better
4. His work targets – both quantity and time
5. Parameters of evaluating performance and information collection and reporting necessary for doing so

• Must know his Resources

1. His plant and machinery and their state of fitness for operation
2. Availability (physical and operational) of auxiliary equipment, tools, jigs, fixtures, dies, spares etc.
3. Input Materials used and required by him – their availability, scarcity and caution to be exercised in their handling and use

• Must know his people (his most important resource)

1. Names, sections where working, in which shift
2. Age, experience and qualification,
3. Strengths (Skills and special competencies)
4. Shortcomings (limitations) both in terms of skills as well as attitude/behavior
5. Hence, areas where he/she needs training, guidance, counselling
6. Potential for growth

• Must be aware of, and strictly adhere to, all safety, environment and statutory regulations and practices. Should take special care of following :

1. Use of PPE (Helmets, Safety Shoes, Masks, Goggles, Slings etc.)  by all employees in his work section
2. Proper execution of all safety and precaution measures while operating machines in his shop
3. Proper earthing of all electrical machines/equipment in his shop and regular check of the same as per recommended practice
4. Full and free access to Fire Extinguishers and Electrical Switchboards in his department
5. Regular training and Mock Fire Drills ensuring that sufficient (ideally, all) employees know how to use the Fire Extinguishers and other such equipment
6. Aisles, Staircases and Emergency Exits always kept fully free for speedy movement and prevention of accidents
7. Attend to any leakage (air, water, gas, steam, oil, coolant) to prevent accident and pollution

• Must keep himself abreast of  changes and developments in his sphere of working and all related areas

1. Technological
2. Regulatory / Statutory
3. Competitive
4. Environmental / Safety / Societal

• Must constantly benchmark himself  against best performance parameters,  internationally,  and strive to attain and surpass them

Mumbai

7 August 2005