| How Does Lean Manufacturing 5S Help? |
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| Written by admin |
| Saturday, 20 September 2008 18:30 |
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5S originated in Japan, and all of the words started with an S. Luckily, these words also translate to words that also start with an S. Let's look at what all of the 5S terms mean. The first term is sort. This is a very basic process of pulling out everything from a work cell, or area, that is not needed. The goal is to operate with the bare minimum requirements to still get the job done efficiently. In order to be organized, you need to have a place to set your tools. This is where the term Set comes in. Just by using some tape to outline a tool, or a peg board labeled with a tool name, can help show where the tools go or when tools are missing. 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. Now that the area is organized and cleaned, you need to standardize. One of the ways to do this is by having periodic review of the area. Another potential pitfall is not having new procedures. you most likely changed some stuff, so new procedures and new processes will need to be established. This helps to ensure the area operates at a set standard. 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. About the Author: Lean Manufacturing Secrets provides a full, in depth guide to Lean Manufacturing, including the topic of lean manufacturing 5S |