Australia’s two largest brewers, Foster’s Group and Lion Nathan have partnered with CHEP to address the continuing risk associated with the storage, transportation, delivery and collection of 50L draught beer kegs.
Having identified that the shape and weight of the kegs, combined with transport methods used and the sometimes problematic access to available storage at the destination increased the of risk of injury to company employees, third party logistics service providers, venue staff and the general public, the brewers approached CHEP to lead an initiative using 6Sigma methodologies to reduce this risk.
Drawing on proven statistical and quality-improvement tools, the 6Sigma methodology can be used to achieve operational excellence by reducing variation and defects in processes.
Over a nine month period, CHEP’s Perfect Trip Project team worked with Foster’s and Lion Nathan to develop a number of short-term recommendations.
“The recommendations were either implemented or tested immediately and several concept designs for lifting devices and containers for storage, transportation and dispensing of kegs were also developed and are now being investigated further,” CHEP’s Perfect Trip Project manager Wyn Daniel said.
The project team also produced the National Guide for Safe Handling of Beer Kegs, a comprehensive guide that will form the basis of training for all venue staff.
CHEP is continuing to work with the brewers to provide further assistance and technical guidance as they implement these recommendations and standards.
According to CHEP, working collaboratively with Foster’s and Lion Nathan has allowed them to gain invaluable insight into the issues that critically impact on these companies, enabling them to make a positive difference to their business.
Add a comment