Continuous Improvement on the Shop Floor at IKO

Join the OpExChange for a plant visit at IKO in Chester, South Carolina, for a firsthand look at how a global manufacturer approaches continuous improvement on the shop floor.

IKO is a worldwide leader in roofing, waterproofing and insulation products for residential and commercial markets. Family-owned since 1951, the company operates more than 35 manufacturing facilities across North America and Europe and is highly vertically integrated – manufacturing many of the materials that go into its finished products.

During the visit, the IKO team will provide an overview of its Continuous Improvement process and how it is applied within the operation. Participants will tour the manufacturing floor with an eye toward how improvement opportunities are identified, communicated and acted upon. IKO itself describes continuous improvement as an ongoing effort across its manufacturing network involving equipment, systems and processes to improve efficiency and productivity, reduce waste, and strengthen performance and safety.

The visit will conclude with an OpExChange Plus/Delta discussion – an opportunity for participants to share observations and ideas with both the IKO team and their manufacturing peers.

Come prepared to observe, ask questions and contribute. The goal isn’t just to see another manufacturing operation – it’s to use the plant floor as a catalyst for a practical exchange of ideas among manufacturing professionals.

PPE Required:

Closed toe safety shoes, long sleeves, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, hi-vis straps, head covering. All metal rings, watches, etc. must be removed prior to tour.

Site can provide hats, gloves, hi-vis straps, hearing protection and safety glasses.