Furniture manufacturing resource efficiency

Although it's often overlooked, materials storage and handling can make a significant contribution to cost savings. Furniture manufacturers can minimise waste in storage areas by:

• reducing exposure to water and dramatic changes in temperature
• maintaining supplier-recommended levels of temperature and humidity in your materials store
• carrying out good housekeeping that minimises damage, spillages and spoilage of stored raw materials, such as by installing a well-designed racking system

You can reduce waste from materials handling by:

• developing systems and procedures that reduce the risk of accidents and materials damage
• using the correct equipment to move materials
• ensuring delivery staff are fully trained and can carry products on and off vehicles safely and efficiently

You can reduce waste from materials processing by:

• using good dust extraction systems
• controlling process waste on the shop floor
• ensuring solvents and other hazardous substances are managed safely
• separating materials to ensure the safe use of bins and skips for waste

Dust is a major issue for all furniture manufacturers. You must have efficient dust-extraction systems to comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations.

Installing small wood-combustion plants and wood-burning boilers is a cost-effective way of reusing wood waste. Ensure that any installations meet legal requirements such as emission limits and permits.