Understanding Man:Machine Ratios in Garment Industries – What Do These Numbers Really Mean?

Hi,

I have heard that the Indian garment industry has a man:machine ratio of 2.54, and for Bangladesh, it is 1.15. What does this mean? Is it the direct labor to direct machine ratio, or does it include everyone from the CEO to the dispatch person in the industry? How do I calculate the man:machine ratio? Please tell me.

Thank you.

Dear Chandru,

The man-machine ratio refers to the number of manpower required to perform a job in proportion to the number of machines in operation. For example, machines include cutting machines, sewing machines, k/b machines, sample sewing machines, and alteration machines. If there are a total of 500 machines, the required manpower is 1000 individuals (including operators). Therefore, for 500 machines, 1000 manpower is needed in the ratio of 1:2 (a standard ratio across the industry).

Regards,
Chandru
Bangalore

What do you do and where? Why do you want to know the answer? Do you know the difference between Direct and Indirect labor? Have you searched the web? I did and found quite a few sites that answer your question. I suggest that you also search the web and, if you are still not clear, then raise the question again. Have a nice day. Simhan

Dear Chandru,

Thanks for your clear explanation. However, would you like us to consider all machines (working + idle) and the existing manpower in the calculation? If there is a standard ratio that we should follow, please let us know.

Thanks,
Md. Atiqul Islam Apu