5S is a popular tool used in lean manufacturing environments and its primary benefit is its simple approach.
Too many it appears just like good old fashioned common sense. This article outlines some of 5S’ obvious benefits.
Phase 1 – (整理) Seiri (Sorting): This is a process to get rid of any unnecessary tools and equipment items from the workplace area. Everything else is either discarded or stored. This step is crucial to achieving greater efficiency through workplace design.
Phase 2 – (整頓) Seiton (Set in Order): This process focuses on organising work areas for maximum efficiency by organising tools & equipment to promote optimum work flows through minimising movement. For instance, all tools & equipment should be located as close as possible to where they’ll be needed and processes designed to maximise efficiency. For example, if a tool is only to be used at the end of a machine, that’s where it should be located.
Phase 3 – (清掃) Seisō (Sweeping): This method relates to maintaining a disciplined, systematic approach to ensure a clean & tidy workplace and tip top machines.
When every shift ends, work areas are tidied and tools and equipment are returned to their designated locations. This should be carried out every day, rather than become an ad-hoc activity that’s introduced when things become disorganized. This principle also suggests that by regularly cleaning machinery and retaining it close to its original condition when it ws bought, its efficiency and quality will not be greatly affected. Machinery that’s retained in good condition experience less unproductive downtime and will produce quality levels which are very close to new machinery. Kaizen
5S into Action is an excellent video that will create the vision of what 5S should be to your employees. All too often the meaning of 5S is lost and whittled down to only the cleaning aspect of 5S; but, 5S is much more then shining or cleaning up. 5S is truly about creating a visual workplace which communicates to your employees, customers, and managers as the health and vision of the business. 5S allows your business to better communicate to the newest employee and the shop floor veteran. This video will provide you with a real perspective, a perspective that communicates 5S to your employees in a manner that allows them to truly understand 5S; empowering them to adopt your vision of a visual and sustainable workplace.