Application of lean six sigma business practices to an Air Purifying Respirator process

Chemical and metallurgical operations involving hazardous materials (plutonium, other nuclear materials, beryllium, and corrosive liquids) account for most activities performed at nuclear research facilities. When engineering controls are not feasible, excursions of these contaminants into the operator's breathing zone are prevented through the use of personal protective equipment, including Air Purifying Respirators (APRs). Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma (LSS) business practices effectively improve the APR process. Designing the APR process management system increases effectiveness, while adopting streamlined and cost effective activities that meet nuclear research worker needs. This paper discusses the application of LSS business practices to an APR process and demonstrates how management uses the results to make decisions.