Shift handover in production

Shift handover in production is the stage by which a team that completes the shift transmits to the team that takes over the shift those important informations and conditions necessary to continue production without ambiguities, errors or blockages.

Often, due to dynamic activity, problems that arose during the shift, pressure to complete the delivery plan, this process becomes just a formality, the procedure is not followed and practically the information and responsibility are not transferred correctly, which can lead to delayed start of production, unplanned stops, non-conforming parts, additional costs and demotivation of employees.

Of course, depending the field of activity, the elements that must contain a handover-receipt of the shift differs, but it should include at least the following aspects:

• about the volume and type of items produced, if the production plan was reached
• from the point of view of product quality, new defects that have appeared, if there are any parts put "on hold" for additional checks
• problems that have arisen in the production process and if the investigation, analysis of them and/or ongoing actions have begun
• information about the condition of the machines, workstations, if all the equipment is functioning properly
• condition of the work area, cleanliness, order (5S)
• documentation completed according to the production tracking procedures in physical or electronic format

Here are some recommendations for an efficient handover procedure:

• definition of those responsible: team leaders or even operators and occasionally the quality or maintenance department may also participate
• there should be a physical or electronic sheet, with a short, clear and possibly checkable format that contains the elements listed above
• planned and dedicated time, approx. 10-15 minutes at the end of the shift, which should include not only verbal transmission and filling in the sheet, but actually going through the area together
• standardization of the format and activity, the same routine in all areas
• improvement of the process through periodic review, involving those who use it

If the handover of the shift is done correctly, the results are seen both in the short and long term, creating collaborative and mature teams that think beyond "my shift".