Foam Inlays – Coplan / KIT

Efficiency Unleashed – The Crucial Role Of Organising Tools In Large Organisations

February 1, 2024/in Blog, Foam Inlays, Tool Audits/by coplan

In the bustling world of large organisations and enterprises, where projects are complex and timelines are tight, the importance of efficiently managing tools cannot be overstated.

1. Streamlined Operations for Large Teams:

In organisations where multiple teams collaborate on intricate projects, having a systematic approach to tool organisation is paramount. A centralised system ensures that tools are easily accessible to all team members, eliminating the delays caused by the search for misplaced equipment. This streamlined process results in better project coordination and faster task execution.

2. Enhanced Project Accountability:

In large organisations, tracking tools becomes a significant challenge without proper organisation. Establishing a clear system of accountability for each tool ensures that responsibility is assigned, reducing the likelihood of lost or misplaced equipment. This accountability not only safeguards tools but also promotes a culture of responsibility within the organisation.

3. Risk Mitigation and Compliance:

For large organisations operating in industries with stringent safety regulations, maintaining organised tools is not just a matter of convenience but a regulatory requirement. Proper organisation helps in regular equipment checks, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring compliance with safety standards. This proactive approach to risk management protects both the organisation and its workforce.

4. Cost-Effective Resource Management:

Large organisations deal with a vast array of tools and equipment, and losing track of these resources can lead to unnecessary expenses. Repurchasing tools that are thought to be lost but are actually misplaced can strain the budget. By implementing efficient tool tracking systems and organisational protocols, organisations can save money and allocate resources more effectively.

5. Corporate Image and Client Confidence:

A well-organised tool management system not only benefits internal operations but also contributes to the corporate image. Clients and stakeholders are more likely to have confidence in an organisation that demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism in its projects. An organised workspace reflects positively on the organisation’s commitment to excellence.

Incorporating innovative solutions like the KIT system further exemplifies the efficiency gains achievable. With the KIT solution, one customer audited an impressive 7,440 tools across 240 drawers in under 2 hours. This showcases how technological advancements can revolutionise tool management in large organisations, making the process not only efficient but also remarkably quick and accurate.

In the dynamic world of large organisations, where efficiency is a key driver of success, the organisation of tools stands out as a critical factor. By embracing systematic approaches to tool management and leveraging cutting-edge solutions, these organisations can ensure smoother operations, enhanced safety, and a positive corporate image that resonates with clients and partners alike.

What you can achieve with our foam…

July 11, 2023/in Blog, Foam Inlays/by coplan

When it comes to efficient organization and reliable protection of valuable items, Coplan foam solutions emerge as a game-changing option.

Coplan foam offers a wide range of applications, from creating foam inlays for drawers and foam shadow boards to protecting items in cases and flight cases. Additionally, Coplan specializes in producing foam products tailored for promotional or demonstration purposes. In this article, we will explore the different ways Coplan foam can be utilized for managing tools, protecting and storing items, and addressing specific needs.

Foam Inlays for Drawers

Coplan foam inlays provide a practical and visually appealing solution for tool management. These custom-designed foam inserts are precisely shaped to fit specific tools, ensuring a secure and organized storage system. Coplan foam inlays protect tools from damage and corrosion while enhancing efficiency by providing clear visibility of each tool’s location. This feature promotes easy access and quick identification, streamlining work processes and maximizing productivity.

Foam Shadow Boards

Coplan foam shadow boards take organization to new heights by offering a visual guide for tool placement. By cutting out tool shapes in Coplan foam and placing them on a board, it becomes effortless to identify missing tools and maintain a clean and organized workspace. The foam’s durability and resilience ensure that the tool shapes remain intact, offering a long-lasting and efficient organization system.

Foam for Items in Cases and Flight Cases

When it comes to transporting delicate or valuable items, Coplan foam proves to be a reliable choice. Custom Coplan foam inserts can be tailored to securely hold and protect items inside cases and flight cases. The foam’s superior shock-absorbing properties ensure that items remain intact during transit, safeguarding them against potential damage caused by vibrations, impacts, or sudden movements. With Coplan foam, peace of mind during transportation is guaranteed.

Specialist Foam Products for Promotional or Demonstration Purposes

Coplan foam solutions extend beyond tool management and protection. They offer specialized foam products designed for promotional or demonstration needs. From foam replicas of products for display purposes to foam shapes and logos for branding events, Coplan foam offers a lightweight, customizable, and eye-catching solution that effectively promotes a brand or product. These foam products can capture attention, create memorable experiences, and leave a lasting impression on potential customers.

Coplan foam offers a wide range of applications, from creating foam inlays for drawers and foam shadow boards to protecting items in cases and flight cases.

Delivering a customer visual tool control storage solution for The University of Exeter and Drake Tooling

March 1, 2023/in Case Study, Foam Inlays, Tool Inventory Management/by coplan

Our Client

Established in 1976, Drake Tooling & Abrasives Ltd supply the precision engineering market with abrasives and cutting tools, and a complete technical back-up. Today the business is one of the South West’s leading Engineering Distributors, offering a wide range of products and services including the very best in abrasives, cutting tools and measuring equipment.

The Project Drake

were delivering a project for University of Exeter, providing the furniture, tooling and equipment for an innovative new space which would enable students to prototype their engineering ideas. This would be a world-class facility, providing students with an opportunity to test and develop their manufacturing and engineering skills.

The space has been designed with 30 tool benches and a maximum capacity of 60 students. This meant that up to 500 students a week could be using the space, and the 1,500 tools that were included in the specification of the new space.

The Challenge

At an earlier design stage, it was intended to store tools on the wall spaces using traditional tool shadow boards, but with 1,500 tools there wasn’t sufficient wall space. An alternative visual control solution was needed which meant that the tools would be stored in drawers instead. Although the team at Drake Tooling had previous experience subcontracting this sort of work, they hadn’t been impressed with the result and were concerned that they would struggle to find a suitable supplier for this high-profile project. When we were recommended by their furniture supplier, they were keen to get in touch to discuss the challenge.

The Solution

We worked alongside Drake Tooling to develop and supply a custom visual tool control solution, using a design approach which would ensure it was easy to identify any missing equipment. Using a single collection of tools supplied by the client, we digitised each individual tooling profile and created design layouts for the University to review. These designs were reviewed and refined, before we then produced a set of samples for testing. These were designed with a blue foam base and a black foam upper layer – the two contrasting colours making it easy to identify missing tools. Once the final designs were approved, we produced the 120 custom foam inserts that would be needed to store all the individual hand tools. It took four weeks from initial design to completion of the project – a delivery timeline that impressed all of the project stakeholders.

The Result

Both the University and Drake Tooling were very impressed with our proactive approach, which allowed us to deliver a full solution quickly and effectively. In addition to providing the foam storage, we also included our KIT inventory software solution, providing added value and unlocking potential for a smarter inventory solution Both our client and the University are now keen to work with us on new projects, including the opportunity to digitally publish information about tools, instructions, and risk assessment documentation through our KIT platform to any web-enabled device used by the staff or students.

Download the full case study PDF

The Role of Visual Tool Control in 5S Initiatives

July 21, 2022/in Blog, Foam Inlays, Shadow Boards, Tool Standardisation/by coplan

A 5S programme is often the starting point for a larger continuous improvement or efficiency programme. It is based on five steps: sort, set in order, shine, standardise and sustain.

Sort

Sort is based on the idea that space, time and energy can be saved by removing unnecessary clutter from workspaces. It requires all non-essential items to be removed from the workplace. Organising tools properly makes it easier to identify what is truly needed.

Set in order

Tool control solutions have a clear role to play in the second 5S step: set in order. Set in order is based on the idea of a tidy workplace. Time wasted on unnecessary searching for or returning tools, materials or equipment should be avoided. Organisations need to make it easy for anyone and everyone to put tools away through clear labelling and a tidy workplace.

Shine

Shine is based on the idea that everyone has a responsibility for maintaining a clean and pleasant workspace. Clean, bright working spaces lead to improved morale, improved productivity and fewer absences. Tools should be inspected and cleaned before being replaced. Tool control makes for a tidy workplace. It also makes it easy to review the condition of tools.

Standardise

Standardise is based on the idea that best practices should be formalised and standardised. Visual communication, staff training and empowerment (encouraging staff to take responsibility for 5S initiatives) help to embed best practice.

Sustain

As part of your 5S programme, tool control needs to be embedded within the organisational culture. Sustain is all about discipline and the need to practice the other 4S as a way of life. Continuing adherence to all steps helps to create the environment for continuous improvement. Revisit all steps within your 5S programme and, as part of this, review your tool control solutions and procedures on a regular basis to ensure maximum efficiency and continuous improvement. In conclusion, tool foam is highly beneficial when used to help achieve 5S initiative and to organise your tools throughout your company. If you are looking for a design, fabrication and support service that revolves around tool organisation, feel free to contact Coplan today.

Tool control makes for a tidy workplace. It also makes it easy to review the condition of tools.

What are the benefits of using tool foam for organisation?

July 1, 2021/in Blog, Foam Inlays, Professional Services & Training, Tool Standardisation/by coplan

Tool foam can be incredibly diverse and useful in many applications, including inside toolboxes, cabinets or trolleys. Furthermore, it presents a series of benefits that you will find very intriguing…

#1 Improve tool organisation

There’s nothing worse than not knowing exactly where your tools are. You waste valuable time searching for the tool you need for a specific task, ruining productivity. Tool foam shadow boards eliminate this issue by giving you easy access to all of your tools. You can also keep them more organised using colour coordination, so you never waste time ever again.

#2 Make your tools easier to trace

Tracing tools is essential to understand where they have been. With our custom fabricated tool foam shadow boards, you can ensure your tools are placed in the right place every time. The individual design of the shadow foam means only one tool can be placed in it. Therefore, if the shadow is empty, you know the tool is missing! It makes it a lot easier when counting stock as well – you simply open your cabinets or boxes and count the tools neatly in their foam shadows.

#3 Implement standardisation at work

Standardisation is the process of instilling standard behaviours at work. You do things that become the known way, and everyone follows suit. Using foam tool inserts helps to implement standardisation at work as you have one way of storing all of your tools. Everyone has to store their tools in the foam inserts, rather than some people storing them one way, some storing them in another, etc.

#4 Strengthen your branding

Following on from standardisation, tool foam is excellent at building a solid and consistent brand image throughout your company. If everyone is storing their tools using tool control foam, it means you have a branding opportunity on your hands. We can laser etch logos and brand names onto our tool foam, making it yours! Effectively, all around the workplace, you have branded tool organisation that looks extremely professional and keeps your branding consistent. This can be very impressive if any clients come around and see your workplace.

#5 Provide visual management aids

Another benefit of tool control foam is that it provides you with visual management aids in your workplace. Managers can easily tell people where to place tools or where to find the tools they need. Thanks to the coloured foam options, you simply need to say a colour, and your team will know where to go and where to look. #6 Increase overall productivity Ultimately, improving your tool organisation will help to increase your overall productivity. It’s all about become leaner and more agile, cutting down time spent on meaningless tasks. By using tool foam to know where everything is, you have more structure to your organisation and can get through jobs with more fluidity and few barriers. In conclusion, tool foam is highly beneficial when used to help organise your tools throughout your company. If you are looking for a design, fabrication and support service that revolves around tool organisation, feel free to contact Coplan today.

If you are looking for a design, fabrication and support service that revolves around tool organisation, contact Coplan today.

Tracing tools is essential to understand where they have been.

Why Do We Need Tool Control Foam?

May 14, 2021/in Blog, Foam Inlays/by coplan

Tool control is crucial for operational efficiency in manufacturing and maintenance environments. When tools are not controlled and managed well, it can lead to issues with productivity, health and safety problems, loss of time and money, and even a negative impact on your business’s reputation. Tool control solutions are available to help mitigate these issues…

Productivity slows down

A missing tool can cause a dip in productivity for several reasons. As workers need to look for the tool, they are not getting their real work completed. Production or other work might need to be stopped or delayed until the tool is found, meaning that valuable time is lost. If one or more people or processes need to stop work, it could have a knock-on effect and mean that other tasks can’t go ahead either.

A replacement tool needs to be found

If a missing tool can’t be found immediately, a replacement tool might need to be found to take its place. This also takes up extra time, as the tool will need to be sought and put into use. Additionally, it might not always be possible to find an exact like-for-like replacement for the missing tool. This could mean that there is no similar tool that can be used, so the job cannot be completed until the missing tool is found or a replacement is sourced. Another possibility is that the tool is replaced with another that is not fit for purpose, which could reduce productivity or even lead to a greater risk of injury, damage to equipment, mistakes, and more.

Money is lost

A missing tool could cause a monetary loss to the business. If the tool cannot be found, a replacement might need to be bought or hired. This will often cost more than simply how much the tool itself costs, as someone will have to source the new tool and arrange for its delivery or collection. If the tool has found its way into machinery or products being produced, it could damage expensive machinery or product might need to be recalled, leading to further monetary loss.

The business could also lose money through taking a hit to their reputation. If the business is seen as being careless, accidents occur, or the company has to recall a product, it could mean that customers lose trust in the company. This could lead to a loss in sales, which might be difficult to recover from. A further monetary risk is one arising from potential accidents, which could lead to legal proceedings.

Increased health and safety risks

Certain health and safety risks could become a problem if a tool goes missing. When you don’t know where a tool is, it could have found its way into machinery or perhaps into the product being manufactured. These situations could create performance issues and potentially increase the risk of accidents. If a tool is replaced by one that is not adequate for getting the job done, this could also mean there is a greater risk of accidents or injuries occurring. Any accident has the potential to result in a range of other problems, from lawsuits to loss of reputation.

Manage Tools with Tool Control

Coplan provides a full range of solutions to help organisations keep control over their tools. Our solutions are designed to ensure that your equipment is protected and safely housed, as well as to provide visual confirmation of whether a tool has been returned or not. We offer tool control foam solutions, including tool cabinets, tool cases, foam shadow boards, and tool bags. These products are cut to your requirements and provide clear visual indicators of whether a tool is within its housing or has been removed. In addition to this, we also provide tool access control and auditing solutions to ensure all tools are audited and traced.

Coplan has been delivering tool control solutions for more than three decades. We help to protect more than £40 billion of tools and assets across our clients. We hold an ISO 9001 accreditation, which demonstrates our commitment to delivering quality products and services, and continually improving what we do. With our tool control solutions, we aim to help our customers do the same, allowing them to achieve high levels of quality and continual improvement too.