How to solve OHS problems ?
Problems, big and small, are part of daily life, and each of us is used to facing and solving them. The question is: are we all equally effective at solving them?
Many people have a natural aptitude for problem-solving, but it remains a skill that can be acquired, particularly through the application of a method.
Various methods for improving quality in business
"Problem Solving" literally means "problem resolution," which is the way to provide the best possible response to a given critical and unusual situation. In all usable problem-solving methodologies (FMEA, 8D, DMAIC, ...), the fundamental step that determines the effectiveness of the solution to the problem is the correct analysis of causes, which in the context of management systems is defined as "root cause analysis."
Kaoru Ishikawa, a Japanese chemical engineer and quality theorist, proposed a diagram (both graphical and analytical) in 1943 to identify the various causes preceding an event. Also known as a fishbone diagram, or cause and effect diagram, it is the most popular tool for correctly performing root cause analysis.
The Ishikawa diagram is therefore used to define the potential causes of a problem, and then to implement corrective actions. Its popularity stems from the simplicity with which the tool allows for systematically and visually listing all possible causes of an effect.
It is a tool very often used in brainstorming activities to solve a complex problem (effect) by examining its various factors (causes).
In manufacturing, a particular type of Ishikawa diagram, the 4M diagram, is often used to study problems or processes during the production phase. Compared to a standard Ishikawa diagram, the categories in which to search for the cause of the studied effect are already defined in the 4M diagram. These are Manpower, Method, Machine, Materials.
Another methodology, complementary to the Ishikawa diagram, for analyzing and getting to the root of causes, once identified, is the "5 Whys" methodology.
