Strategic and Sustainable Implementation of 5S in a Beef Abattoir

Abstract

In recent time workplace organization and easy information retrieval help in achieving optimum productivity through maximum utilization of the resources available, significantly reducing industrial lead-time and waste thus resulting in low production cost and increase return-on-investment (ROI). This paper is a study of the effective and efficient implementation of 5S processes in a beef abattoir. Thus, the paper employs both qualitative (case study) and quantitative (statistical analysis like 5S scorecard and 5S audit performance) methods. This research identifies and outlines 5S “best practice” issues overlooked such as unneeded items lying around, torn sign displays, labels and shelves not partitioned, bins not clearly stored in demarcated areas and storage tools not clearly shown with sign panels and labels. Furthermore, budget constraints and the abattoir unreadiness to adopt the 5S system inhibits the smooth implementation of the 5S phases required. Therefore, this research managed to map out a 5S lean-system implementation framework for the case company X beef abattoirs. Finally, the research recommended effective process on how 5S can efficiently save the industry on planning to reduce waste in processes such as lead-time in effective information retrieval system, safety issues to mitigate non-value adding activities and space utilization, for improved productivity.