5S is a system for organizing spaces and eliminating waste so that work can be performed efficiently, effectively, and safely.
This system focuses on putting everything where it belongs and keeping the workplace clean, which makes it easier for people to do their jobs without wasting time or risking injury.
The 5S stands for Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize and Sustain.
Remove all items that are unnecessary for the current operation from the workplace. Sorting means leaving only the bare necessities. When in doubt, throw it away. Items essential for everyday operations can be tagged and catalogued.
During this phase, it is important to determine what arrangements are most logical and best serve the purpose. So, this is when allotting spots to all the retained items and arranging them in their designated spaces in the work area take place. The objective is to maximize accessibility, free up space, and prevent accidents from occurring by removing unnecessary obstacles.
The Shine stage of 5S focuses on cleaning up the work area. In addition to basic cleaning, Shine also involves performing regular maintenance on equipment and machinery. The key purpose is to keep everything in top condition so that when someone needs to use something, it is ready for use. A clean work area presents an opportunity to visually inspect equipment, tooling, materials and work conditions.
The fourth step has been called the most important step in the 5S Process. In this step, work instructions, checklists, standard work and other documentation are developed. It makes standard operating procedures for 5S so that orderliness doesn't regress. E.g., defining the “normal” conditions of the work area, stating how to correct “abnormal” conditions, and making the standards easily communicable and understood. (i.e. visual controls).
Sustain refers to the process of keeping 5S running smoothly, which means implementing all the above measures all the time. Practice these behaviours on a regular basis so that they become habit. All students must be properly trained.
Do not attempt to remove foreign objects from the eye or body
Wear eye protection safety glasses with side shields, goggles, or face shields at all times, whether working or not!
Safety is your top priority when using the lab. If you are not sure what you are doing Ask?
Use tools only as they were designed to be used (do not use a wrench like a hammer).
Clean up every time you leave an area.
Do not wear loose fitting clothing around moving or rotating machinery.
Know where to find first aid, fire and safety equipment.
Never use a broken tool.
Clean and return all tools to where you picked them from.
Do not wear ties, jewellery, gloves etc, especially around moving or rotating machinery
Never use a tool unless you’ve been trained to use it safely.
Report any broken tools or machines immediately.
Shut off or unplug the machines when cleaning repairing or oiling.
Tie back or cover long hair to keep it away from moving machinery.
Never work alone when you are using power tools. Two persons must always be present and be within sight of one another.
Do not remove any material and/ or tool from the lab.
Keep the floor around machines clean, dry, and free from trip hazards. Do not allow chips to accumulate.
Wear shoes that cover the entire foot, no open–toe shoes or sandals to be worn.
Sign in before using any equipment.
Never walk away from a tool that is still on.
Wear suitable gloves when handling hot objects, glass or sharp edged items.
Do not fool around, startle or distract anyone (don't even engage in a conversation) while either one of you is using a tool.
Operate machines only with all required guards and shields in place.
Think through the entire job before starting. Prepare prints or drawings with all dimensions and specifications prior to use of machines.
❑ Label all machines, devices, equipment and materials in the lab with:
✓ Name
✓ Hazard posed
✓ Storage Instructions
✓ Expiry date (if any)
✓ Source and date of procurement
❑ Make arrangements for collection, storage & safe disposal of waste of all kinds.
❑ Mark the Entry and Exit prominently in red.
❑ Place a safety notice board near the entrance of the lab with all important information pertaining to safety and security.
❑ Prominently display emergency contact numbers, emergency equipment list, well-stocked first-aid kits and their location, emergency response plan in case of fire and an evacuation plan.
❑ Make necessary arrangements as per the need and type of machines, equipment etc. for example soldering stations should have sufficient ventilation or be placed in an area outside the common workbench area: projects and machinery with sensitive electronics need to be protected from moisture etc.
❑ Enforce a strict clean-up policy throughout the lab to be followed by all.
❑ Keep a check on anything lying scattered on the floor – like wires etc. as these can easily become a tripping hazard.
❑ Aim to provide access to grounded power outlets all along the perimeter of the room and/ or dropped from the ceiling for each workbench/ work table.
❑ Ensure tools have enough space to be operated safely and do not endanger the user or other people in the lab.
❑ Make sure all tools are well maintained and have all safety features in place. Put in place a system for monthly/ fortnightly monitoring of the lab by AAC and document the same in the form of a lab safety certificate sealed/signed by AAC.
Most importantly, print out the information on the datasheets for all potentially hazardous materials that will be used /stored in the lab.
Finally, compile them together in a binder using plastic sheet protectors.
Store this manual in a visible location preferably near the door entry or exit.