Order and Cleanliness
4. Introduction to the 5S Methodology
4.1. “More productivity = Better workplace”
4.1.4. How could the 5S be defined?
- As an ideal status in which:
- Unnecessary materials and tools have been eliminated.
- Everything is in its place and is labelled.
- Sources of dirt have been eliminated.
- Visual cues exists via which deviations or faults are plainly obvious.
- All the above is sustained and continuously improved.
4.1.5. What the 5S are not
The 5S are not GENERAL CLEAN-UPS organised before a visit by the board of directors, politicians, important clients or auditors.
The 5S ARE NOT A MATTER OF AESTHETICS, but one of functionality and efficacy.
4.1.6. What benefits do the 5S offer?
Among the benefits offered by the 5S, the following stand out:
- Implanting of the 5S is based on team work. It allows workers to become involved in the process of improvement from their knowledge of the job. Workers become committed. Their contributions and knowledge are valued. CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT BECOMES EVERYONE’S JOB.
- Frequently sustaining and reviewing the level of the 5S, we achieve MORE PRODUCTIVITY, which translates as:
- Fewer faulty products.
- Fewer breakdowns.
- Lower levels of stocks.
- Fewer accidents.
- Fewer useless movements and transfers.
- Less time employed in changing tools.
- By means of Sorting, Setting in Order and Shining, we achieve a BETTER WORKPLACE for everyone, seeing as we gain:
- More space.
- Pride in the place where we work.
- An improved image before our clients.
- Increased cooperation and teamwork.
- Greater commitment and responsibility in tasks.
- Increased knowledge of the post.
