5S Lean Method for Six Sigma

4-5 minutes

5S is a step-by-step method with which you can eliminate all waste that is caused by the way your workplace is organized, and build a culture of continuously improving efficiency and productivity. 5S was developed in Japan and was identified as one of the techniques that enabled Just in Time manufacturing.

The 5S is done by Sorting (Seiri), Set in Order (Seiton), and Shining (Seiso) your workplace, and then Standardizing (Seiketsu) and Sustaining (Shitsuke) the results.

The 5S list is as follows:

1. Sort – Separating of the essential from the nonessential items

Goals

Reduce time lost looking for an item by reducing the number of items.
Reduce the chance of distraction by unnecessary items.
Simplify inspection.
Increase the amount of available, useful space.
Increase safety by eliminating obstacles.

Implementation

Check all items in a location and evaluate whether or not their presence at the location is useful or necessary.
Remove unnecessary items as soon as possible. Place those that cannot be removed immediately in a ‘red tag area’ so that they are easy to remove later on.
Keep the working floor clear of materials except for those that are in use to production.

2. Set In Order – Organizing the essential materials where everything has its place

Goal

Make the workflow smooth and easy.

Implementation

Arrange work stations in such a way that all tooling/equipment is nearby, in an easy to reach the spot and in a logical order adapted to the work performed. Place components according to their uses, with the frequently used components being nearest to the workplace.
Arrange all necessary items so that they can be easily selected for use. Make it easy to find and pick up the necessary items.
Assign fixed locations for items. Use clear labels, marks or hints so that items are easy to return to the correct location and so that it is easy to spot missing items.

3. Shine – Cleaning the work area

Goals

Improves the production process efficiency and safety, reduces waste, prevents errors and defects.
Keep the workplace safe and easy to work in.
Keep the workplace clean and pleasing to work in.
When in place, anyone not familiar with the environment must be able to detect any problems within 50 feet in 5 sec.

Implementation

Clean the workplace and equipment daily, or at another appropriate (high frequency) cleaning interval.
Inspect the workplace and equipment while cleaning.