Lean TRIZ method to prevent safety related problems in the construction industry

Abstract

The construction industry needs safer practices due to its complex and fragmented nature. Therefore, makingerrors visible is essential to the process of error proofing. With the Lean concept, it becomes possible todesign out errors and develop ways to prevent errors before they turn into defects. Lean also creates a moreproductive and effective process when implementing innovative methods such as TRIZ, a problem solving,analysis and forecasting tool. Lean TRIZ is a new approach to improve construction processes while reducingthe likelihood of defects. It strongly coincides with the elimination or possible prevention of errorsoriginating from unsafe actions and conditions. Considering the high number of accidents in the constructionindustry, it is of utmost importance to implement tools and techniques to prevent the probability of suchoccurrences. Therefore, this study proposes a new method for error prevention with the implementation ofthe Lean TRIZ method to minimize safety-related problems in construction. Then, real construction problemscaused by unsafe practices and conditions are analyzed with the Lean TRIZ method. The main contributionof the study is to introduce the Lean TRIZ concept and analyze the feasibility of applying this method tosolve safety problems. In addition, the study provides a guide and encourages construction practitioners tobenefit from the solutions provided by this research in the context of Lean TRIZ methodology.