The operation of these principles is produced by developing a strategy known internationally as "The 5 S". Its name comes from the following Japanese terms:
Seiri (subordinate, classify, discard).
It is necessary to begin a classification in the work and administrative areas, removing unnecessary elements for the operation. These factors are placed in a temporary storage place where at the same time those that are usable for another operation are selected and those that are considered useless are discarded or discarded, thus freeing up space and eliminating obsolete tools.
Seiton (systematize, order).
“A place for everything and everything in its place”. The elements that have not been removed and that are considered necessary must be assigned a place, correctly delimiting their storage, display and use space; painting signaling lines of areas with lines, silhouettes, putting labels, signs, among others. Ordering in this way provides great benefits for both the worker and the company.
Seiso (sanitize and clean).
Organized cleaning as part of daily work also allows inspection and identification of breakdown problems, wear, leaks or any type of defect. In addition, it provides regular maintenance that makes the work ecosystem safer and reduces the dangers caused by dirt. Specific actions can be taken to reduce or eliminate the primary causes of pollution, providing direct benefits to the worker, both in terms of their health and their safety.
Seiketsu (simplify, standardize and make consistent).
You have to maintain the states of order and cleanliness using the previous steps. This stage may be referred to as the "application stage." Following these standards we will permanently maintain a productive and impeccable environment.
Shitsuke (hold the process, discipline).
This stage is the one that has the duty to ensure that all the previous steps are carried out step by step and that their procedures are not broken.
The application of the 5 S determines and ensures that both successful quality tests can be carried out in the environment, as well as that the product has the required quality and works with a continuous methodology.
Its objective is to achieve greater efficiency, uniformity and formality.
Its importance consists in the elimination of waste in different areas and increase the improvement of cleanliness, safety and occupational health conditions, it is also the platform to develop any production system focused on customer satisfaction, improvement of the environment and integral development of the operational staff.
The benefits of the 5 S.
- The employee acquires a value of belonging, security and feels motivated.
- An organizational culture is generated.
- It enhances and saves the use and response time.
- The useful life of the equipment is increased.
- Shrinkage and losses due to faulty production are reduced.
- Higher quality products are produced.
- More sales made, so the company's profits also increase.
- The value of the company is enhanced.
- The delivery time, as well as the inventory are significantly reduced.
- Production costs decrease.
In Lean Manufacturing, a fundamental aspect is the commitment in terms of leadership in the company. If we manage to keep an adequate control of this factor, it is most likely that we will obtain the expected results. To do this, we must create an environment in which the employees of our company are capable of both identifying problems and resolving them effectively.
At LeanInn we can help you implement the 5S step by step in your organization and achieve the expected success in all processes. Enter the following link for more information: https://bit.ly/3tWBjbY
Also, you can enroll in our online live broadcast Lean Management Professional Qualification Program, where you can take operational excellence and teamwork to the next level. Start: April 06, 2022: https://bit.ly/3J5I7u5
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