espi Communication Board

Systematize (seiton) - This is the second step in a 5S program: Organize, arrange, and identify everything in a work area, as well as throughout the facility, so that items are efficiently and effectively retrieved and returned daily to their proper storage location(s).

A variety descriptives have been used for the second step of 5S. These include:

·         Straightening

·         Setting In Order

·         Systematically  organizing

·         Straightening out

·         Simplifying

This step could also simply be called "put away." Put things away in logical storage locations allowing commonly used tools and materials convenient and easy to access by yourself and any coworkers.

The Basics of 5S Systematize (seiton)

The focus of this part of 5S is to create efficient and effective storage so anyone can easily and quickly find the tools, materials, and supplies they need, then promptly return those tools, materials, and supplies to their proper storage locations, when you are done with them.

A second key aspect of Systematize is that the most commonly used tools should be readily available. Those items that are not frequently used should be kept out of the way by storing them in a different and somewhat remote location.

Labeling 5S Systematize

To properly systematize work spaces, storage areas, cabinets, and shelves should be clearly marked with signs and labels. Place labels on the outside of doors to identify what is in the storage space. Interior shelves are labeled so that individual items can be consistently and easily returned to their proper storage locations.

Frequently used tools are often stored on shadow boards (Peg boards that have the outline or a colored shadow of each tool marked on them).  The "shadows" match the shape and size of the tool, making it easy to see which tool goes where.

For larger items that are stored on the floor, first clean and paint the floors to make it easier to spot dirt, waste materials and dropped parts and tools. Use floor marking tape or paint lines to outline areas where items are to be stored and so that it is easy to see work areas, movement lanes, etc.

Apply These 5S Systematize Principles to Any Workplace

The key to "5S Systematize” is: a place for everything and everything in its place properly identified and labeled.

·         Items that are used frequently should be stored close to where they are used.

·         Items that are used infrequently should be stored in a common area further from the location where they are used.

·         If several items are used together, then store them together.  For example, drill bits should be stored in the same location as drills.

·         Store things in a place where people would logically look to find them and then maintain this.

·         Identify all items (including tools, jigs, molds, bits, etc.) and label them so that anyone can identify and return them to their proper storage location.

The 5S Map

A 5S map is tool that can help in developing the 5S Systematize step. A 5S map is a diagram, or floor plan, that provides an overview of a work area, a department, office, or work station. It provides a picture that shows where machines, storage areas, work in progress, supplies and workers are located. It also includes a short description of the tasks that are done in the area.

Use a 5S map to identify:

·         Where equipment and machines are located (Where the work is done).

·         Where storage areas are needed.

·         How those storage areas should be arranged.

·         How people move around in, or move through a work area.

The 5S map serves as a visual aid to help identify logical storage areas, and ways to position work areas that will make access to needed tools and materials efficient and easy.

The Office and 5S Systematize

5S Systematize also applies to offices. Work areas in offices should be identified by signs or placards. Papers, blueprints, catalogs, invoices and other paper materials should be appropriately filed. Store frequently used manuals, books and catalogs on bookshelves and properly arrange them. Label filing cabinets, drawers, bookshelves, and other storage locations, as well as the materials being stored, so they are easy to identify and materials can easily be retrieved and returned to their proper place.

In summary, there are two important parts to 5S Systematize; 1. Putting everything in its proper place and setting up a system so that everything is returned to that place. 2. Labeling and identifying all equipment, tools, and materials you use, as well as their proper storage locations. 5S Systematize not only applies to individual work areas. The overall facility should also be systematically organized, including the proper placement of easy-to-understand labels and signs throughout the facility. In this way much time is saved in securing the needed items and all unsafe clutter is removed.

Join us next week for 5S Techniques - Seiso (Shine)