Blog Post 12: 5S Process

Phases of 5S: My 5S process was for my vehicle.

• Sorting
• Straightening or Setting in Order/Stabilize
• Sweeping or Shining or Cleanliness/Systematic Cleaning
• Standardizing
• Sustaining the Discipline or Self-Discipline
• Safety
• Security
• Satisfaction

I basically live my life in my vehicle, so I thought that this would be a good 5S process project. I live in an actual apartment, but I am constantly in class or heading to work, so I consistently drive. I began my 5S process by finding all of the loose ruble that was on the floor of my car and throwing it away. I then went through all the important papers that were in my car (and probably shouldn't have been there in the first place) and sorted out which ones would be important to stay (insurance papers), and which ones would probably be safest stored in my apartment. From there I went into all of my compartments and emptied them of any trash or accessories I did not need (nerf darts from last year spring break) and then I sorted out my papers and organized them in the compartments that they should be in. My manual was left in my glove compartment along with vehicle records and information. And other papers that I thought were important were stored in the locking compartment between the front seats. After everything was off the floor and seats, I took out all of the floor mats and vacuumed them along with the floor. I also wiped down the seats, steering wheel, and dash board. I cleaned all of the windows and the glass protecting my gauges. I now just have to tell myself that "what ever I bring into the car, has to leave the car if it does not belong.", I also know that my car will be safer when there is nothing in it that can possibly cause harm if and when there would be an accident, and now I have the satisfaction of getting into a nice clean good smelling car! I should use the 5S process more often.