Module 7 · Lesson 17 of 24
Poka-Yoke
Learning objectives
- Explain the purpose of poka-yoke in garment operations.
- Describe when and how to apply poka-yoke on the shop floor.
- Identify common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Core idea
Poka-yoke prevents an error or detects it immediately at source before it becomes a defect.
Method
Identify error mechanism; prefer eliminate/constraint/interlock over warning; prototype; challenge-test; control bypass and maintenance. Extra final inspection is not mistake-proofing.
Garment-factory example
Orientation fixture for labels, part-count template, sensor for missing component, barcode recipe lock, or sequence interlock.
Method
- Identify error mechanism;
- prefer eliminate/constraint/interlock over warning;
- prototype;
- challenge-test;
- control bypass and maintenance
Common mistakes
- Applying the tool without observing actual garment-floor conditions.
Knowledge check
Pick one answer per question. Explanations appear after you submit.
1. Which statement best captures the core idea of Poka-Yoke?
2. A common mistake when applying poka-yoke is to:
Author: Sanjeewa Dehiwalage · Last reviewed: 2026-07-21