The application of 6S methodology as a lean improvement tool in an ink manufacturing company

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

9 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The lean 6S methodology, which comprises of 5S + safety, is a powerful and effective lean improvement tool which can be applied to any type or size of organisation. The traditional 5S was expanded to 6S in order to incorporate the concept of safety awareness in the organisation. It can be adapted to all processes within any organisation or industry. The 6S pillars are; sort, set in order, shine, standardize, sustain and safety. The purpose of this paper is to explore the application of the 6S methodology as a lean tool, in order to reduce waste, improve quality, increase productivity and enhance organisational performance. Two data collection methods were used to ensure the proper implementation of the lean 6S methodology. Within the framework of this case study, a 6S audit was conducted over a 8 week period and the audit score showed an increase from a score of 50 in week one to 90 in week 8, and organisational photography was utilised as a research tool to indicate the before and after application of lean 6S. By ensuing the 6S methodology, a significant improvement in safety, productivity, job satisfaction, quality initiatives, efficiency and housekeeping, can be achieved.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2017 IEEE International Conference on Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management, IEEM 2017
PublisherIEEE Computer Society
Pages1666-1671
Number of pages6
ISBN (Electronic)9781538609484
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2 Jul 2017
Event2017 IEEE International Conference on Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management, IEEM 2017 - Singapore, Singapore
Duration: 10 Dec 201713 Dec 2017

Publication series

NameIEEE International Conference on Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management
Volume2017-December
ISSN (Print)2157-3611
ISSN (Electronic)2157-362X

Conference

Conference2017 IEEE International Conference on Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management, IEEM 2017
Country/TerritorySingapore
CitySingapore
Period10/12/1713/12/17

Keywords

  • 6S methodology
  • lean tool
  • organisational performance
  • quality improvement

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Business, Management and Accounting (miscellaneous)
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The application of 6S methodology as a lean improvement tool in an ink manufacturing company'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this