An Ergonomics-Based Storage Bin Allocation for Picking Efficiency Improvement

Abstract

© 2020 IEEE. The objective of this action research in distribution center of leading retailers in Thailand is to increase picking efficiency by storing products in bins at appropriate height for more comfortable body posture in picking according to the ergonomics principles. This helps reduce pickers' bending and tiptoe leading to less physical stress, lower picking time and higher efficiency. Products were prioritized and grouped by picking quantity with ABC classification. Storage bin levels or heights were ranked with its convenience for picking. Fast-moving products were assigned to storage bins at hand level, which is the most suitable level for picking in order to reduce bending and tiptoe. Medium- and slow-moving products were prioritized and stored in the remaining higher or lower storage bins. It was found that bending and tiptoe significantly decreased by 71.3% and 100%, respectively. Picking efficiency was improved by 15%.