A Brief Overview of 5S
A More In-Depth Look at 5S
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The following is a transcript of the infographic above:
5S is a five-step organization technique to create and maintain an intuitive workspace.
Sort – Keep only necessary items in the workplace.
- Review tools, parts, and instructions.
- Keep only what is essential
- Eliminate anything that is non-essential.
Examples: Obsolete/expired procedures, damaged/expired inventory, defunct/old equipment
Set In Order – Arrange items to promote efficient work flow.
- Arrange items in a logical order.
- Indicate places for each item clearly.
- Keep each item close to where it will be used.
Reduces: excess movement, excess transportation, over processing, over production, excess inventory, excess delays, defects
Shine – Clean the work area so it is neat and tidy.
- Make cleaning a part of daily work.
- Assign areas of responsibility.
- Return all items or files to their assigned place.
Examples: Dirty tools & equipment, spills & leaks, clutter & mess
Standardize – Set standards for a consistently organized workplace.
- Create standards for Sort, Set In Order, and Shine.
- Make standards easy to understand with Visual Controls.
- Assign and educate on individual responsibilities.
Examples: Work instructions, hazard warnings, equipment/tool labels, process diagrams
Sustain – Maintain and review standards.
- Measure and monitor process.
- Address root causes and avoid reversion to the “old ways.”
- Promote individual feedback and response for improvements.
Examples: Emphasize cooperation, communicate clearly, and support innovation.
To learn more about 5S, check out our Free Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Training.
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