Sorting is removal all items from the workplace that are not needed forcurrent work. This means contain only

what is needed, only in the amounts needed, and it should be located where it is needed. To complete your work.

Sort by locating and evaluating all items and supplies in the current workplace.You apply three questions or criteria for each itemi. Is this needed for current workii. If it is needed in what quantityiii. Where should it be located for current work flow?Once you have asked these questions the items are then dealt with based on the answer.i. Leave it where it isii. Relocate to appropriate locationiii. Disposediv. Move to a holding area for further evaluation

When implemented correctly this step of the process creates a visual work place. Improves communication between workers Reduces and/or eliminates the previously identified types of waste. Results in increased productivity, and increased satisfaction in the workplace.

Setting in order means putting all of the necessary items, supplies and equipment in the place where they are needed to complete the work. The items are placed where they are easy to find, and use. Labels are used to create a visual workplace so anyone in the workplace can identify, find and put the items back in the correct place after use.

Start by finding the best location for the items and supplies Locate items in terms of their frequency of useCreate visual cues to reinforce location of supplies and equipmentExamples:Labels on shelvesTapped off sections of floor for positioning of itemsShadow boards outlining placement of key equipmentColor codingDirection signsTape or paint indicating off limits or hazardous areas.Dividers

This step is important because it eliminates the various types of waste that were previously identified, Prevents or reduces the types of errors previously identified.When you apply this step you create a place for everything and put everything in the correct place. Another way to think about this is you are creating Standardization i.e. a consistent way to work.

Shining means sweeping and cleaning the work environmentThe objective of this step is obvious…to have a clean, bright work area. In addition this step is important to establish that all supplies and equipment are in good working order and are ready for use when needed.

Workplace cleanliness is everyone’s responsibility!Entire work area is divided into into logical groupings:i. Work Spaceii. Supply areasiii. EquipmentDevelop a plan with a routine schedule for regular cleaning and inspection of each group.Make clear assignments for who is responsible for cleaning and inspecting.Create clear standards for how cleaning and inspection is to be done.Build the cleaning and inspecting responsibility into the assigned person’sworkday responsibilities.Complete instant maintenance to fix problems that are identified and can be fixed in the workplace.Request maintenance for equipment that needs repair.

Potential hazards are visible so accidents, and injuries are less likely to happen.Maintenance of equipment is likely to occur due to equipment being regularly inspected.Clean work environments(shine) lead to high morale and carefulness in the workplace.Equipment and supplies are in the right place.

Standardize is the method you use to maintain the first three steps: Sort, Set in Order, and Shine.

This step brings together and integrates the first three steps so that deterioration of the workplace does not occur. It is the step that allows you to hold the gains you have achieved in creating an orderly, clean safe work environment.

Make the first three steps Sort, Set in Order and Shine part of daily workCreate visual approaches to assist employees Check sheets, visual controls for knowing where, how much, how often ...)Assign responsibility for evaluating the results of the 5S work on a regular basis.

The cleanliness of the workplace does not deteriorates.Equipment and supplies are not damaged and are in working order.Equipment and supplies are where you need them to perform work..There is adequate supply of equipment or supplies.Errors and defects do not occur in the workplace due to properly organized environments.

Sustaining means making a habit of properly maintaining correct procedures. This step is about creating the discipline to follow the previous 4 steps Sort, set in order, Shine, Standardize. This step cannot be measured nor are there specific tools to use. This step is about setting and maintaining the proper conditions that create the discipline necessary to keep %s alive and active in the workplace.

Awareness: Make sure that everyone knows what 5S is, why you’re implementing it, and what the benefits and rewards are. That way you’ll get more cooperation and it will be easier to implement.Time: It is important to ensure that there is enough time to carry out your plan, if there isn’t any then make some time for it otherwise it won’t work.Structure: Create time to complete the 5S activities. Communicate how and when the 5S willRewards and Recognition: Create meaningful reward and recognition for for 5S accomplishmentsSatisfaction and excitement: When people can get meaningful work accomplish and create fun at the same time it becomes contagious. So create ways to make this fun!Keep 5S alive: Talk about it in staff meetings, review 5S evaluations with staff members. Take and display before and after pictures to recognize success.

5S is a simple yet powerful method for improving workplace operations, efficiency and morale.5S has significant impacts on improving the safety and quality of work.The 5 steps that compromise 5S in order are: Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and, most importantly for a long lasting effect, Sustain.Creating a visual workplace is integral to the success of 5S effortsHave fun with it and is creative. It’s an ongoing process enjoy it!