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5S Blitz performed on IT and CTP areas

2015-10-01

As part of Flesh Co.’s on going continual improvement process, a 5S Blitz was recently performed on their IT and CTP (computer to plate) areas. 5S is a system designed to reduce waste and optimize productivity by maintaining an orderly workplace and using visual guides to produce more consistent operational results. The five components of the process are sort, set in order, shine, standardize and sustain.

“During our Kaizen events where we rebuild a piece of equipment, we use the 5S process to organize tools and the press work area”, says Randy Lewis, VP of Manufacturing. “By applying the same 5S process to work areas such as IT and CTP, we will lay new groundwork to stabilize, simplify and standardize those departments where what is supposed to happen does happen, on time, every time, day and night. It’s about organization, discipline and team building. This type of Lean/Sigma event enables us to become visual workplace”.

After the 5S program is completed, parts and tools most often needed are arranged for quicker access. Work areas are cleaned and the organizational process documented so the new standards will be maintained. Once implemented, the new standards set in place become the norm for that work area and we can link 5S activities with other continuous improvement initiatives in our organization.