Kitting & Critical Path 

Mining companies face several challenges when it comes to optimizing kitting and critical paths in their operations. In planned maintenance events, few things are more frustrating than looking for parts, tools or talent when a piece of equipment has already been taken out of service and delivered for a repair or routine service. If the service is delayed, or cannot be fully completed for lack of spares, tools or talent, that lost time cannot be recovered. Routine inventory consumables that are not organized and kitted in advance have a significant ripple-effect on both throughput and unit cost.

The kitting and preparation process begins with prioritizing safety protocols and ensuring that safe conditions and safe behaviors are in place. How unused materials are returned to stock is another advantage of kitting. Kitting tools and materials for specific jobs reduces inventory shrinkage as those items can be accounted for with clarity.

By implementing and integrating new technologies with fundamental disciplines, such as kitting, mining companies can improve efficiency while creating a culture of ownership and accountability.

Key Client Challenges:

1. How can we identify and prioritize critical tasks in our mining operation to establish an effective critical path?
2. What data and metrics should we be collecting and analyzing to optimize kitting and critical paths effectively?
3. What technologies or software solutions are available for optimizing kitting and critical paths, and which ones are the most suitable for our specific operation?
4. How can we improve communication and collaboration among different teams and departments involved in kitting and critical path activities?
5. What strategies can we implement to ensure a steady and reliable supply chain for materials and equipment required for kitting?
6. What role can automation and robotics play in streamlining kitting processes and managing critical paths more efficiently?
7. How can we balance cost-saving measures with the need for safety and compliance with environmental regulations when optimizing kitting and critical paths?

While automation and data analytics technologies can prove effective for optimizing kitting and critical path processes, ensuring that workforces are trained to handle advanced technologies and processes effectively is still essential. Support from employees and line managers across departments is also crucial to ensure that technologies are fully adopted, and new processes are sustained long term.

Our Unison Mining experts can work with your team to ensure that new ways of working are sustainable, with teams equipped to monitor processes, KPIs and behaviors to drive lasting change in kitting and critical paths.