Work more efficiently tomorrow with the 5S principle

While lab automation is an answer to error-free, accurate and faster work, so is an organized workspace. This way of working efficiently takes little time and can be implemented tomorrow. Therefore start with the 5S principle. The model is a commonly used tool in lean six sigma and increases productivity, quality and safety.

Seiri: sort

Take a critical look at the current workplace and ask yourself what you need to complete tasks. Which materials are indispensable and which are actually superfluous? Separate the wheat from the chaff. The workspace becomes a lot emptier and more organized. This way you no longer waste time searching for materials and you have valuable minutes left for your work. Efficiency at its best. You share your workplace with several colleagues. Therefore, talk to them and ask them the same questions. What materials do they want to have nearby? Agree on your wishes and find a workable solution together.

Seiton: arrange

Place required materials logically in your workplace. Place what you need every day, such as pipettes, within reach. Also place chemicals and shared equipment such as a microscope in a central and safe place that is accessible to everyone. For ergonomic reasons, it is a good idea not to place frequently used equipment underneath you or in a drawer. This way you limit bending and relieve your back. Even more important than rearranging the workspace is maintaining order. Place pipettes, tubes and racks in a fixed place and mark materials. This way you can complete tasks without long searches or walks for supplies. A step in the right direction towards efficient working.

Season: cleaning

Nowhere is hygiene as important as in a laboratory. That is why this S is actually an open door: keep your workplace clean.

Seiketsu: cleaning up

Compare an cluttered workplace with a messy home. It gives an uneasy feeling and causes long searches for lost items. It's unsafe, frustrating. That is why it is important that you continuously tidy up your workplace. Immediately putting the used materials back in the right place helps with this. Provide a standard and document it.

Shitsuke: Stand your ground

Discuss standard operating procedures (SOPs) with the team so that everyone works in the same way. Then maintain order, regularity and your new way of working efficiently by continuing to do these actions. Then you get used to it quickly. When time passes, autopilot takes over. This way you work efficiently without even thinking about it.

Safety: the extra S

This S, the unofficial sixth, is certainly not a neglected child. It may even be the most important for any laboratory. The S stands for safety and refers to cleaning and tidying up. By adhering to these practices, you reduce the chance of errors. And this also reduces the risk of unsafe situations.