Effectiveness of 5S Practices

Abstract

Problem statement: 5S practice is one of the techniques to improve quality environment, health and safety at the workplace. Evaluation of 5S practice can be done through implementation of 5S audit at each division in the company. Approach: Through 5S audit, it enables each company to identify the potential level of quality improvement and at the same time can analyze their ability and weakness of each division in the company. Therefore, in order to assess the implementation of 5S practice, two manufacturing companies were involved in this study. Results: The study started with understanding background of the company, recognizing divisions to be assessed in the company and come out with the complete 5S checklist for each division for auditing process. Based on the result, both companies basically perform an excellent 5S practice, but there are a few weaknesses that still need to be considered such as arrangement of the documents, tool and equipment. Conclusion/Recommendations: Moreover, both companies agreed that the 5S practice is seen as an effective technique that can improve housekeeping, environmental performance, health and safety standards in their workplace. However, effort and participation from top management is a key factor that determines the success of the 5S practice.