Introducing Six Sigma and Lean quality tools to reduce human errors in health care and FDA-regulated pharmaceutical manufactuing organizations

Human errors are primary factors in almost every quality problem today, specifically in health care and FDA-regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing organizations. Human errors caused by employees are considered as main reasons of decreases in the productivity and reputations of pharmaceutical companies. Human error in health care is a main cause of patient deaths and injuries. The purpose of this study is to develop an awareness of human errors and to determine a method for identifying and reducing them. The project introduces Six Sigma and Lean as quality tools to identify human errors and find ways to address them. The project also evaluates the use of DMAIC process for developing an error-reduction plan and introduces best practices like standard work, to help avoid mistakes, and 5S (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain) to simplify the work environment. The ultimate goal is to increase productivity, quality, and safety in these organizations.