COLD STORAGE AUTOMATION
USING AN AS / RS IN
A FREEZER
ENVIRONMEN
The human body isn ’ t designed to work in sub-zero temperatures , yet the majority of frozen food operations conduct warehousing activities manually , requiring workers to physically withstand harsh environments . This is not only risky for the worker , but the operation as a whole . With workers taking frequent , but necessary , “ warm-up ” breaks and the need to move product out of the freezer and into a more favorable environment for picking , the organization is quick to realize inefficiencies in time , labor , and energy usage .
In order to combat these inefficiencies , today ’ s most forwardthinking food operations are turning to automation technology to decouple labor from sub-zero environments . While there are many benefits of an automated storage / retrieval system ( AS / RS ), such as improving productivity and increasing inventory accuracy , many companies are hesitant to make the investment . Why ? Often , companies deem automation too expensive or too large of an undertaking . Or , companies are putting off the inevitable investments due to the need to achieve short term goals . Simply put , they are intent on the quick fix , rather than on the long-term solution that will allow for a clear competitive advantage .
Despite the preconceptions about automation technology , it is simple to decide whether an AS / RS is the right investment for freezer applications by taking the following three-fold approach . These are discussed below :
Data Analysis & Metrics
Data analysis is the first step in determining the requirements of any frozen food warehousing and distribution operation . Begin by performing a business analysis to gain a holistic view of the past , present and future needs of your company . Then , conduct a review of current processes , inventory and warehouse design to determine if current operations will support this growth and if it is suitable for automation technology . Lastly , justify the basic cost for the system by demonstrating its overall benefits .
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