One of the basic initiatives for any business looking to go lean will be 5S. This is the process of organizing and cleaning specific sections or work cells of a business to ensure the operate more efficiently. Let’s look at exactly what the term lean manufacturing 5S consists of.
The term 5S is an acronym used because all 5 of the words start with an S. Here is what they mean:
Some people really like this first step. It is your chance to get a trash can and load it up. All of the things not needed for the job are removed and only the essentials are kept.
Set is the next step. This means you will need to find a place for all of the tools needed for the job. Some examples of ways to accomplish this are through the use of a peg board or by using tape to outline where items should be. This ensures you have a place for them and people can notice when they are not there.
Shine will be next. This is a simple step in ensuring all of the tools in an area are cleaned and the actual area itself is also clean. Place a person in charge of this area to ensure this is happening.
When you see the term Standardize, it means to ensure the same process you laid out originally is done exactly the same with everyone. This could mean new procedures, or periodic reviews of the area. But it needs to be kept up.
To sustain this improvement, ensure you hold someone accountable for this and then move to the next area. You have built up some pretty good momentum, so don’t lose it.
All businesses should at the minimum have a 5S initiative in their company. Everyone likes a clean area and likes to know what is expected of them. Lean manufacturing 5S can help with this.