The 5S

Introduction: The steps in a 5S campaign

In this knowledge module, you learn how the 5 steps of 5S are applied and, as a result, how you can make waste and inefficiency visible and create a clean, tidy and safe working environment for yourself.

Sort out
Set in order
Shine
Standardize
Sustain

1. Sort out

In the first step, you analyze your workplace: What is unnecessary and what do you actually need for your day-to-day work? This includes:

Materials
Inventories
Tools
Documents

Tip: Mark all the things in your workplace that you do not need with a red card and store them somewhere else temporarily. After 3 to 6 months, check whether you actually need the things and you can either bring them back or dispose of them.

2. Set in order

After you have sorted out unnecessary items, you set the items left in your workplace in order. Each object has a predefined place. Click on the fields to put everything in its place.

SCREWDRIVERS

Wrenches

Hammer

Pliers and Cutters

Each object now has its own place. This makes it much easier to ensure you have the right item to hand when you are working. Try this in your workplace!

3. Shine

Employees all clean their own workplace. Cleaning equals checking! Defects can be identified and rectified at an early stage.

4. Standardize

A standard documents what is currently the best way to do or control something. It is designed in such a way that it is easy for everyone involved to meet it. Every standard is only temporary and is replaced when there is a better solution. The latter becomes the new standard. Standardization can be implemented effectively by involving employees. Take a look at some examples of standards.

Work instructions and codes of conduct.

Control displays and visual systems.

Markings and labels.

5. Sustain

Is the following statement true? “For continuous improvement, it is sufficient for me to understand the benefit of an action.” Select the right answer.

Correct!

It is not theoretical knowledge, but rather day-to-day actions (self-discipline) that create constant improvement. This means that employees should use 5S continuously and repeatedly. Continuous support from the management is required to facilitate constant improvement.

Unfortunately, that’s the wrong answer.

Conclusion

Good! You have completed the fourth knowledge module. Take a look at the other modules to find out how you can integrate LEAN successfully into your everyday working life. .