5S-Workplace Organization

 

Accelerate production flow while achieving a cleaner, safer and more organized workplace.

Benefits of 5S/ Workplace Organization

• Improve quality
• Achieve work standardization
• Decrease changeover time
• Improve safety
• Reduce storage costs
• Reduce cycle time
• Reduce machine downtime
• Improve employee morale

House of Lean

Workplace organization (5S) is not only one of the most essential tools of lean manufacturing, but it is also the foundation for virtually every other tool used in the implementation of lean concepts. Set-up reduction, cellular flow, pull systems, point-of-use-storage and total productive maintenance are among the various tools based on the principles of 5S. Essentially 5S transforms a cluttered and disorganized workplace into a clean, safe and orderly work environment.

The Process

Workplace organization is a five step process designed to achieve an orderly work environment. The specific steps in the process are:

Sort

Initially all items in the work place (parts, tools, supplies, etc.) are sorted and categorized. Those items that are required for regular use are retained in the work area. Items that are deemed to have no current or anticipated future use are discarded. Items that may be used on occasion or in the future are tagged and stored in a designated area outside the work site. Normally after a designated time, if these items are not used, they are also discarded.

Set to Order

All the parts, tools and supplies that are retained within are assigned designated locations with in the work cell. The use of visual controls is often used; e.g. drawing tools on a board to ensure that each tool is returned to its proper place after use. Essentially there is a place for everything and everything is in its place.

Scrub & Shine

Once the work area is organized, all equipment, work benches, floors, walls, windows etc. are thoroughly cleaned. This step is not intended to be a one time or periodic activity, but should be maintained on a regular daily and weekly basis. All equipment and tools should be ready for immediate use and in proper working condition.

Standardize

This activity is intended to maintain the improvements from the first three, especially scrub and shine. It is the ongoing process of keeping the work area and equipment free of dirt, grease, debris etc. This is the condition when the first three activities have been maintained for some time.

Sustain

This results when the first four activities become habits and practices within the work area by all employees. The use of periodic review audits is helpful for maintaining the proper cleanliness and organization within the work cell. Often companies may be very effective in performing the first three activities, but the program falters due to failure to effectively maintain the improvements.

Our Experience and Track Record

Insyte Consulting has Western New York's largest and most diverse staff of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) manufacturing experts—all with extensive hands-on, industry experience. We have helped WNY companies improve operations using lean manufacturing methodologies for over 25 years. Insyte has worked successfully with more WNY companies using these techniques than any other consulting organization. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your specific situation and how we may contribute to your improved competitiveness and profitability using proven lean manufacturing tools.

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