Implementation of ‘5S’in a small scale industry: A case study

Abstract

5S Method” of Lean Manufacturing techniques refers to five words for the basic elements of the system: Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize and Sustain. This research work has been carried out to understand the positive impact of the 5S methods implementation in a small scale industry over the various attributes like Labor Productivity, Floor space savings, positive work culture shift, safety & health of the workers etc. „5S‟methods of Lean manufacturing techniques is a proven tool to reduce and eliminate waste and to bring Positive work culture shift in the organization. The paper presents the methodology of successfully implementing the 5S methods in a small Scale industry. Results clearly shows significant improvement in 5S Score, Labor Productivity & Floor space utilization apart from some qualitative benefits like improvement in health, safety and positive work culture shift in the organization after implementation of 5S methods.