By decluttering and implementing a systematic approach in the workplace, the work environment can be transformed into a more efficient, organized, and motivating place to be. When there are tools dotted around the place, not only is it hindering productivity as everyone has to search high and low for the equipment they need, but it goes against the Occupational Safety and Health Act which is in place to ensure workers can do their role free from hazards.
By introducing Safety Products and improving tool organization throughout the workplace, the small-scale changes can contribute to significant business improvements. Clearing out any unused, faulty, or outdated tools creates more physical space, making it easier for everyone to access the tools they need. A workspace without clutter creates a more calm environment for employees, reducing chaos and boosting efficiency so people can carry out their duties without hindrance. This is also beneficial for health and safety purposes, minimizing the number of workplace hazards and thus reducing the risk of injury.
To carry out an effective declutter, here are the steps which can be taken to free up space and create an organized approach:
- Start by bringing all tools together and separating them into categories based on their use. Sort through them by tools that are regularly used/ functioning, no longer used/ outdated, or damaged and unusable.
- Keep the useful tools to one side and dispose of the others accordingly by selling, donating, or discarding them. This will free up plenty of space which can be used to free up the work area.
- Before getting back into old habits and risking damaging the remaining tools by scattering them across the site, look into storage solutions that create an organizational system. From shelving units for larger pieces of equipment to drawers for the smaller tools and parts, find solutions that work for the space and assign every asset a base which they should be returned to following use.
- Introducing a labeling system will help employees know where to look for tools, as well as prevent people from putting equipment in the wrong place. Using color-coded labels is a popular visual communication approach that helps group together different tools.
- Before putting tools in their home, use this opportunity to clear up the area while it is empty. Wipe down the surfaces, remove any debris, or repaint the walls to create a fresh new look.
Once the clear-out has been completed, maintaining the same approach towards organization and clutter will ensure that the business does not fall back into old habits. The site should be maintained on an ongoing basis, keeping on top of cleaning and testing the tools to check whether they are still in working condition. By communicating these maintenance procedures to employees and setting expectations for their workspaces and the return of tools after use, clutter is prevented and the area can remain organized.
Additional Resources
- How to Implement 5S in an Organization– creativesafetysupply.com
- How to Establish 5S in the Workplace– blog.5stoday.com
- Document Control Made Easy– blog.creativesafetysupply.com
- Tools for Each S in 5S– lean-news.com
- Enhancing Communication in the Workplace With Pipe Markings– warehousepipemarking.com
- Practical Tips for Implementing 5S and Safety Protocols in Construction– hiplogic.com
- The Impact of Floor Tape on Efficiency in the Workplace– floor-marking-tape.com
- The 5S Methodology: Organizing and Standardization in Lean Manufacturing– realsafety.org
- The Role of Industrial Label Printing in Workplace Safety– industriallabelprinters.net