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Seiton (Separating)

Seiton is a concept that, loosely translated, means to set things in order. This second step in the 5S process is all about efficiency and can be summarized with one sentence:

A place for everything and everything in its place.

Seiton consists of putting everything in an assigned area so it can be used and returned as quickly and safely as possible. Commonly used tools should be easily accessible, saving both time and effort.

With color coding tools can easily be found, used, and returned to their proper places. Color coding and labeling eradicates confusion by making tools easily distinguishable by following standard color code guidelines.

The key to an efficient, safe, and adaptable organizational scheme is not only assigning everything a place, but knowing what that place is.

There are many ways to identify proper storage locations. A common method is to use color, pictograms, and shape identification, as they communicate much faster than text. A shadow outline of a tool to show its given location when accompanied by a text label is an effective method for showing tool storage location.

Without clear labeling, seiton is wholly ineffective. While everything has its place, no one knows where that place is without clear visual indication. Labels, like those made by the Duralabel PRO, can be used to organize space visually, as well as label individual objects to make their purposes clear and precise.

Because work requirements often change, seiton organization should be flexible -- capable of adapting to increases, decreases, and outright changes in production needs. Clear labeling is a must for adaptability because it allows for the arrangement of a clean, safe, and efficient workspace to meet any future demands.

The picture to the left shows a mobile 5S cart equipped with color coded tape, tools, computer and the DuraLabel PRO label maker.

Seiri | Seiton | Seiso | Seiketsu | Shitsuke