Improving Copying-Machine Production Line Efficiency Using ECRS Principles and Workforce Reduction

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Kittipong Pearnpitak
คณิศร ภูนิคม
อารี บุตรสอน
อรุณ บุญสร้าง
ฉัตรชัย พรหมนา
อรจิรา ไชยระ

Abstract

This study aimed to improve the efficiency of a copying-machine production line at P.J. Chonburi Parawood Co., Ltd. by applying the ECRS (Eliminate, Combine, Rearrange, Simplify) principles together with 5W1H analysis and time study to redesign workflow and enhance coordination between workers and machinery. A before–after experimental design was employed under actual production conditions. Data were collected between May and September 2025, with 5 repeated measurements conducted under each production condition. The number of operators was then reduced from 5 to 3, and the workstation layout and work sequence were redesigned to improve workflow continuity. The results revealed that total labor cost per hour decreased from 250 to 150 THB (−40%), and labor cost per unit dropped from 0.1515 to 0.1047 THB (−30.89%), while the average output declined slightly from 1,650.07 to 1,432.39 pieces per hour (−13.19%), remaining within the factory’s target range of 1,300-1,350 pieces per hour. The improvement reduced employee waiting time and redundant movements, resulting in more efficient labor utilization and lower labor costs per unit while maintaining production output at an acceptable level. These findings indicate that appropriate human resource allocation and workflow design can enhance organizational efficiency and contribute to the sustainability of the production system

Article Details

How to Cite
[1]
K. Pearnpitak, ภูนิคม ค., บุตรสอน อ., บุญสร้าง อ., พรหมนา ฉ., and ไชยระ อ., “Improving Copying-Machine Production Line Efficiency Using ECRS Principles and Workforce Reduction”, UTK RESEARCH JOURNAL, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 22–29, Jun. 2026.
Section
Research Articles

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