Sort
Clutter is the enemy
The first step of 5S begins with the SORT
step. Sort is the cornerstone of 5S and
will help to get rid of problems such as:
When executing the Sort step, you must
be vigilant and ruthless. Doing this first
step correctly will lay the groundwork
and ensure a successful implementation
of the 5S model.
• Tools and materials impeding
workflow
Identifying unneeded parts and tools is
not always an easy task. Employees and
managers get so used to the chaos that
they don’t even see it anymore.
• Wasted time looking for parts, tools
and products
• Stockpiling unnecessary and
expensive inventory
5S has an effective tool that will help you
with your sort process – it’s called the
RED TAG STRATEGY.
• Safety hazards resulting from clutter
The goal of Sort is to eliminate all of
the unneeded tools and materials and to
create a space that is free of clutter. This
allows for a workflow free from distraction.
A good rule of thumb is: “If you do not
use it on a daily basis – throw it out.”
Leave only the things that you absolutely
need to get your job done. This includes
tools, materials and machinery.
Image, Top: A cluttered central storage/dumping area
before the 5S process.
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