5S System In Our Shop

What is 5S and what is its relation to Aerotex? 5S is a workplace organization method that was developed in Japan and evolved from Toyota’s Lean Methodology. 5S uses five Japanese words that start with S: Sort (Seiri), Set In Order (Seiton), Shine (Seiso), Standardize (Seiketsu), Sustain (Shitsuke). By providing a systematic framework for organization and cleanliness, 5S helps facilities avoid lost productivity from delayed work or unplanned downtime. [1]

Steps of 5S [2]

1. Sort / Seiri
1. Remove unnecessary items from each area
2. Set In Order / Seiton
1. Organize and identify storage for efficient use
3. Shine / Seiso
1. Clean and inspect each area regularly
4. Standardize / Seiketsu
1. Incorporate 5S standard operating procedures
5. Sustain / Shitsuke
1. Assign responsibility, track progress, and continue the cycle

5S is considered a foundational part of Toyota Production System because until the workplace is in a clean, organized state, achieving consistently good results is difficult. A messy, cluttered space can lead to mistakes, slowdowns in productions, and even accidents, all of which interrupt operations and negatively impact a company [3]. These steps are a continuous process that should be implemented as an organization grows and evolves. If a company is looking to reduce costs, create consistent products, increase productivity, a safer work space, and increase employee satisfaction, they should be using the 5S system.

Aerotex was introduced to this in 2018 and has been sustaining 5S since then. The upcoming posts will share our experience with 5S in our shop, production, and its benefit to us as a whole.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5S_(methodology)

graphicproducts.com/articles/what-is-5s/   [1][2]

https://www.5stoday.com/what-is-5s/   [3]