Lean Six Sigma tools, Part III: Input metrics for a Glovebox Glove Integrity Program

The Glovebox Glove Integrity Program (GGIP) at the Los Alamos National Laboratory Plutonium Facility (TA-55) was developed to minimize or prevent glovebox glove events, i.e., loss of confinement of the glovebox through an unplanned opening in the glovebox glove. Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) established the Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma (LSS) business practices to effectively improve administrative and engineering controls and work processes. One approach used in LSS is input metrics: outcomes that fall below the level of significance that would concern TA-55 management or an external regulator; when out of control, such occurrences usually have consequences that are negligible to low. The benefit management receives from using input metrics as a tool is twofold. First, control charts signal the absence or presence of systematic variations that result in process instability in relation to the GGIP. Second, input metrics can be used to identify statistically significant variations (trends) that can be used in decision-making to improve processes. Managing with input metrics allows the workforce to understand the alignment between individual work and the tactical goals of management. This paper discusses process indicators assessed by use of input metrics, provides examples of input metrics, and shows how managers use the results to make decisions. This effort contributes to the LANL's Continuous Improvement Program by providing information that can be used to improve operational safety.