Material handling involves the movement, protection, storage, and control of materials and products within the confines of a building or between a building and a transportation vehicle. It encompasses a wide range of manual, semi-automated, and automated equipment and includes considerations for the protection, storage, and control of materials throughout their manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, consumption, and disposal processes.
Key points about material handling include:
- It is integral to the design of most production systems, as the efficient flow of material between activities heavily depends on the arrangement of the activities.
- Material handling is customizable to meet the specific needs of different industries and operations, offering a high degree of flexibility and versatility.
- It is used to create time and place utility through the handling, storage, and control of waste, distinct from manufacturing, which creates form utility by changing the shape, form, and makeup of material.
- Material handling equipment includes manual, semi-automated, and automated equipment to assist the movement and storage of materials within warehouses, contributing to increased productivity, efficiency, and employee safety.
The importance of material handling lies in its ability to optimize the movement of goods and materials around manufacturing and storage facilities, leading to improved customer service, lower costs, and reduced risk of accidents and damage. A well-designed material handling system can make products easier to find, improve order accuracy, and reduce worker accidents and injuries.
In summary, material handling is a crucial aspect of various industries, encompassing the movement, protection, storage, and control of materials and products throughout their lifecycle, from manufacturing to distribution and consumption. Its effective implementation can lead to improved efficiency, cost reduction, and enhanced safety in the workplace.
