5S

5S is one of the most basic of lean techniques; its aim is to result in an organised and therefore more efficient working environment. Most Lean initiatives start out with a 5S program to get things cleaned up and organised as one of the first steps toward Kaizen process improvement.
There are two important benefits to the 5S approach:

1. Keeping the work area clean and tidy makes problems highly visible – for example “When did that machine start leaking oil?”
2. It reduces the amount of time wasted looking for misplaced tools, materials, and supplies.

The 5S’ include:

• SORT – removing all items that are not currently needed
• STRAIGHTEN – ensuring items are arranged for ready access, labelled, and in a meaningful order
• SCRUB – keeping the work area clean and polished. This gives the opportunity to visually inspect the area for any damage or tell-tale signs of impending trouble
• STANDARDISE – define and communicate the standard condition for the work area, a benchmark for inspections
• SUSTAIN – use training and disciplinary procedures to ensure that the 5S are upheld over a longer period of time

A CMMS can support the 5S approach by reducing paper work and encouraging organisation within a maintenance function. An OEE System can be used to measure actual improvement as a result of 5S.