Total productive maintenance and performance of the Kenya seed industry

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate how Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) has affected the performance of the Kenya seed industry. Specifically, the study sought to fulfil the following objectives: To identify the TPM practices adopted by firms in the Kenya seed industry; To identify the critical success factors to be adhered to ensure TPM benefits the Kenya seed industry; To identify the extent that TPM has contributed to firm’s performance in the Kenya seed industry. This study was justified by plant maintenance revolution that has been fuelled by competition and growth which has led industries to leverage on TPM to outpace the competition. This research problem was studied through the use of a descriptive survey design. The survey was cross sectional in nature since it covered a sample of 47 companies in various segments of the Kenya seed industry. The research employed stratified sampling technique in which the seed companies were stratified into four stratum according to their functions. The study used both primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected using structured questionnaires. The data and information obtained through the questionnaires was first checked for completeness and consistency and then analysed based on descriptive statistics. These were then presented using tables, pie charts and bar graphs for easier interpretation. Findings indicate that 52.6% of firms sampled have implemented TPM practices. The study also showed that planned maintenance and quality maintenance were the most implemented TPM pillars while development management and office TPM were the least implemented. Management leadership and commitment, employee empowerment and involvement, continous improvement, adoption of new technology and organizational culture change were found to be critical factors that will ensure the success of TPM in an organization. Finally the study showed that implementation of TPM practices in an organization not only improve the operating performance but also the profitability.