“Lean only works with mass production - WRONG”

Using Lean tools in a Design-Build-to-Order environment

The Brandt Engineered Products Ltd. plant in Regina manufactures a wide range of design-build-to order industrial equipment. The customer base also represents a divergent group of industries such as, steel & pipe mills, railroad maintenance of way and food processing, to name a few. This type of manufacturing is often considered incompatible with Lean principles because of the limited number of repeatable products. See how we have selectively used Lean initiatives to drive process improvements throughout our facility. This presentation will show our examples of the following:

• 5S + 1
• One-piece flow (but not really)
• Cell setup
• Dedicated staffing
• Standardization

Brandt Engineered Products Ltd. (BEPL) has sustained consistent growth over many years by tackling challenging projects for a diverse group of clients. BEPL has developed expertise in the design and production of pipe mill equipment, high-capacity industrial conveyor systems, railroad equipment and processing equipment for the food industry. BEPL provides conventional and CNC machining services, tool and die work, heavy steel fabrication, and custom stainless steel fabrication.

Stewart Bellamy, Quality Assurance and Lean Manager

Involved in the fabrication/manufacturing industry for more than three decades. Initially in drafting & design, he eventually progressed into project management roughly 15 years ago. For almost ten years Stewart has worked with the Brandt Engineered Products Ltd. (BEPL) team in Regina. Since 1999 his primary responsibilities have focused on quality assurance and over the past four years on the use of Lean enterprise initiatives to help drive process improvements.

In 2000/2001 Stewart headed up the implementation of the company’s QMS being registered in compliance with ISO 9001:2000. Believed to be the first manufacturer in Saskatchewan to receive this designation. More recently he has spearheaded the companies charge to become a Leaner organization. Responsibilities now include, engaging staff in such areas as 5S, Quick Change Over, Value Stream Mapping and cell set-up, as well as facilitating the implementation of numerous on-going Lean projects at the Regina facility. Stewart has completed the RAB accredited, ISO 9001:2000, Lead Auditor Course, he is a director with the South Saskatchewan Manufacturers Consortium and a member of the executive and past chair of ASQ – Saskatchewan.