By Dan Custer
Riverside, Inc.

Editor’s Note: This is the third in the “5+1 S Series” of articles written by EASA’s Management Services Committee to provide “lean service” resources to members. The traditional “5S” program covers these goals: sort, straighten, shine, standardize and sustain. We’ve added safety to make it the “5+1 S Series.” 

Last month, Ron Collins, a fellow member of the Management Services Committee, explained the “straighten” activity and how it helps service center personnel work more efficiently. This month I’ll cover the third S: Shine.

Shine activity
The shine activity refers to cleaning that goes beyond standard sweeping of the shop or a quick wipe down of a work bench. It refers to consistent daily cleaning of your work space, tools, equipment and supplies. All of these items should be in the same condition at the end of each day as when the day started.

There are many advantages of the shine activity, not the least of which is a safer work space. There are fewer hazards in a work area that is cleaned on a consistent basis. There are fewer tripping and pinch point hazards and other distractions, which all contribute to a safer work environment.

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