6S is used for organizing and improving the workplace. Sometimes it is called 5S but it has become more common to add safety into the process.

The name comes from the six steps to implement and each of the words starts with S:

1. Sort - Distinguish what is needed and what is not needed.

2. Set - A place for everything and everything in its place.

3. Scrub or Shine - Cleaning, and looking for ways to keep clean and organized.

4. Safety - Consider any past injuries along with any potential injuries.

5. Standardize - Maintain and monitor the first three categories.

6. Sustain - Stick to the rules.

Do you need inspiration?

You can implement 6S in your own home! Start with your silverware drawer.

Sort: Dump everything out and sort each fork, knife, and spoon.

Set: You may have other miscellaneous items, like straws or toothpicks. Determine if you want those items in this drawer. If you want them in the drawer, where should they be located?

Scrub or Shine: clean up all of the utensils, drawer, and organizer.

Safety: Consider moving any sharp knives and any other items that may cause injury to a knife block or location where it will be safer to access the tool.

Standardize: put everything away in its place.

Sustain: train others on the new standards then ensure they are followed. If/when they are not followed, then return to step 1.

Many times when implementing 6S and going through the Sort process you will find items that you no longer need so make sure you have a staging area where you can address those items, more on that next week.

#leanthinking #leansixsigma #5s

https://expanding-excellence.com/f/6s