INGENIEUR
for more than 100% of their capacity to meet
targets due to inconsistency in the pace of work
(Kanban Zone, 2019). Hence, Muri can result from
Mura and then lead to Muda. Muri can be avoided
through standardised work sequences by defining
a standard condition (Hubbard, 2010).
Types of Waste
Lean management aims to remove wastes
from work processes. A major focus of Lean
Construction and Lean Planning is to reduce waste
in every aspect of a construction project and thus
reduce or minimise the cost of any process that
the client or the owner of the construction project
does not wish to pay for. There are eight types of
waste that need to be considered as discussed
below.
The Eight types of waste
Seven types of waste were first identified in
the Toyota Production System and an eighth –
non-utilised talent – was added when the lean
methodology was adopted in the Western world.
This is directly related to management’s ability to
utilise personnel (Gay, 2016). Figure 2 explains the
eight types of waste that need to be assessed in
the construction process.
Factors Affecting Wastes in Construction
There are several factors that influence waste
generation in a construction project as shown in
Figure 3.
Best Productivity Practices for Good
Construction Waste Management
Achieving the main goals of productive
construction does not just involve one party
starting and implementing action. Collaborative
support and action through multi-sectoral
partnerships will result in good construction
waste management. Despite there being many
issues that can cause construction waste, there
are several productivity initiatives that would solve
many construction waste activities and result in
1
2
3
4
5
6
Frequent Changes in Design
Usually occurs as the client provides
several last-minute changes during the life
time of the project. This is mainly caused
by the lack of communication between
different project parties and the lack of
understanding of the client’s requirements.
Any changes in design will lead to rebuilding
and changed designs and specifications.
This costs time and money.
Mistakes from Workers
Improper training, poor working skills,
bad work attitudes, work overload, poor
management by senior engineers or
supervisors etc. can cause mistakes that
will eventually generate waste. Mistakes
caused by workers can also affect the
quality of the work produced by them.
Weather Conditions
Variations in weather conditions is one
of the major external factors that can
generate waste in construction projects.
Weather conditions can force rescheduling
of project plans which lead to delays and
extra costs over the estimated budget.
Improper Storing of Materials
Materials should be handled and stored
properly to protect them from any adverse
weather conditions. Improper storing can
lead to cracks and defects which will need
replacement of materials.
Error in Purchasing
Ordering or purchasing over or under the
required limit can generate extra costs
or generate delays. Sometimes an error
in purchasing can result in poor quality
materials i.e. the wrong type or materials
that do not fit the required dimensions.
Poor Planning
Planning and management can severely
influence the amount of waste. Poor
planning can be a major cause of waste
generation as it can lead to multiple types
and amounts of waste.
(Source: Mydin et al., 2014)
Figure 3. Factors affecting waste in construction
14 VOL 82 APRIL-JUNE 2020