The impact of implementing continuous improvement upon stress within a Lean production framework

The purpose of this research is to understand the impact of implementing continuous improvement upon the occupational stress of employees within the framework of Lean management. The outcomes of empirical research mobilising a mixed methodology prove that continuous improvement can help attenuate stress levels, whilst achieving or surpassing economic performance objectives, if its implementation means an effective and satisfactory participation by both employees as well as by management. Conversely, when there is no continuous improvement or it is ill-suited, Lean results in greater stress. These findings confirm the interest in furthering insight into Lean management by moving from a global approach to an approach integrating the effects of its various pillars, especially continuous improvement.