What is a key training component in Lean manufacturing that encourages employees to stop production?

In Lean manufacturing, the principle that encourages employees to stop production is often referred to as "Andon," which is part of a broader approach to empower workers to identify and solve problems on the spot. This philosophy promotes a culture of continuous improvement and emphasizes the importance of quality and efficiency over sheer output.

When an employee notices a defect or an issue in the production line, they are empowered to halt the process to address the problem immediately. This practice prevents defects from moving down the line and creates an environment where quality is prioritized. It also fosters a sense of responsibility and engagement among employees, leading to a collective commitment to improving processes and outcomes.

While quality assurance, safety protocols, and process mapping are crucial elements in manufacturing practices, they do not specifically relate to the direct action of stopping production when a problem arises, which is a hallmark of Lean methodology’s focus on quality and continuous improvement.