Effects of Implementation of 5S in Heavy Equipment Maintenance Workshops

The intensive use of heavy equipment is the production core of a road construction company, so maintenance is critical activity to ensure its availability. However, conventional maintenance techniques usually compromise the work safety of personnel by pressing their work capacity, although these maintenance processes can be managed applying methodologies that achieve clean, safe and organized workspaces. Thus, the purpose of this research was to measure the effects of the 5S implementation in the maintenance workshop of a road construction company. For such purpose, were used indicators of equipment availability, occupational safety and efficiency. Having the support of senior management, training and application of 5S were carried out on site. Unnecessary supplies and those of frequent use by the worker were classified (Seiri). Shelves coded for storage were created (Seiton). Parts were removed of scrap and debris from work areas (Seiso). Also, order and cleaning procedures were standardized (Seiketsu). Finally, through visual tools, self-discipline was promoted (Shitsuke). Although the application of 5S did not significantly improve the equipment availability indicators of the workshop, its implementation reduced the accident index and improved working conditions.