5S supplies ship-shape subcontract solution
A place for everything - and everything in its place
Dawson Precision Components improved efficiency, cut waste and impressed customers by applying 5S – sorting, straightening, systematic cleaning, standardising, and sustaining – to its materials management.
The subcontract engineer began by sorting all tools and materials and getting rid of anything unnecessary. Everything which had not been used in two years was marked and quarantined, and if still not used after six months, was scrapped.
Having eliminated what they didn’t need, it straightened everything they did need. All equipment was labelled and allocated a logical storage place, close to where they were used, positioned to minimise bending and stretching.
With the shopfloor in order, systematic cleaning practices were adopted to ensure the workplace stayed organised. At the end of each shift, the work area is cleaned and everything is returned to its designated place. This ensures the workplace stays tidy and locations of equipment remain front of mind.
These processes are then standardised across the organisation, so employees doing the same job can work at any station, where they will have access to the same tools, stored and ordered in the same way.
Finally the processes must be sustained through regular checks and reviews against the initial plan.
Dawson Precision Components has found small improvements, like a well kept workplace, help staff feel pride in their company. It also promotes a greater awareness of the working environment. If a problem were to develop, such as a leak or machine misalignment, it would be spotted and rectified quickly, avoiding delays to customers.
The company is impressed by the improvements in efficiency too. Managing director Simon Dawson says: “It’s amazing what small changes can do. By better ordering the workplace, we can provide quotes faster because we have a clear picture of available materials, and can complete jobs quicker because we minimise waste. As an organisation which sells on quality and speed of turnaround, having a lean workplace is invaluable.”
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