Applying Lean Production Approach to Optimise Materials Management in the Nigerian Construction Industry
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Abstract
In Nigeria, ineffective materials management remains a major challenge within the construction industry, contributing to substandard work quality, increased material waste, budget overruns, disrupted materials flow, and delays in project execution. Addressing these issues calls for a fundamental shift in the operational strategies currently used in the Nigerian construction sector. One promising solution that has gained attention is the adoption of lean production approach to enhance materials management. This study set out to explore how lean production methods could be applied to improve the handling of construction materials. The research involved reviewing relevant literature and analysing selected case studies. Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria, served as the study’s focus area, where ten case studies were examined. Data collection was carried out through direct observation using a tick-box checklist. The findings revealed that materials management practices in construction industry currently have a low overall impact on waste reduction. Lean approach such as waste minimization, timely delivery, improved productivity, and just-in-time systems were found to be underutilized across the observed projects. Based on these findings, a clear framework consisting of three key phases lean Initiation, lean implementation, and lean sustainability has been proposed. Ultimately, the study provided valuable insights into effective materials handling practices in the Nigerian construction industry and emphasized the importance of educating construction personnel about the risks and consequences associated with poor materials management.
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