Camila Fuenzalida, Benjamín Fischer, Paz Arroyo, José Luis Salvatierra.
JI3 2016, number 7, pages 40-51.
Abstract
The construction industry has an enormous impact on the environment, both during construction and operation. Three Lean tools are implemented in this research—Ishikawa Diagram, 5 Whys and A3 reports— in the activity of installation of ceramics in walls and floors in a construction site. The aim is to investigate if the application of these tools allows for improvement in productivity during the execution of this activity and to measure the environmental benefits obtained. The methodology used includes recordings of the execution of the activity, workshops with workers and project managers, and training sessions in the use of Lean tools. The results of the research show that the main waste perceived by the participants was the remade work caused by the lack of control. In addition, it was determined that 751 kg of CO2 were not emitted due to the implementation of these Lean tools, because of reducing the amount of material required for the activity. This reduction in environmental impact could be still greater if these tools were implemented in other activities. In conclusion, implementing these 3 tools allowed for reducing the environmental impact, when concentrating improvement efforts in the most important wastes.