10 Steps to LEAN -- 4

 

4. Stability through 5S

5S is not about "cleaning up"; it is about visual control. A stable environment is a prerequisite for any improvement.

  • The Mechanics: Sort (remove the junk), Set in Order (place for everything), Shine (inspect through cleaning), Standardize (rules for the first 3), and Sustain (self-discipline).

  • The Deep Dive: The "Shine" step is actually a form of preventative maintenance. When an operator cleans a machine, they are looking for leaks, loose bolts, or cracks before they cause a breakdown.

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