September, 2007
by IMPO
ATS Helps Eaton PLant Achieve 5S Score of 98 Of 100

Problem
Eaton Corporation’s Fayetteville, N.C.plant was experiencing inefficiencies in its maintenance operations.  Advanced Technology Services (ATS) was called in to meet Eaton’s objective of creating a cleaner and safer work environment while promoting quality and efficiency.

Solution
     Sort
        Ranked importance of particular items and eliminated what
          was not needed
        Cleaned shop, including all cabinets and ceiling pipes
        Upgraded old sinks and calibration stations
        Painted entire shop with special industrial paint
     Set in Order
        Repositioned air tools, gang box, grinder and electrical
          stations, making processes more efficient
        Developed proper labels for all materials
        Created functional placement for storage and retrieval
          of materials
        Assigned each employee an individual workstation
     Shine
        Perform daily inspections of work areas and equipment
        Eliminate trash and foreign matter from the
          workstations and keep area clean on a continuous
          basis
     Standardize
        Maintain the area with consistent operations
        Use clear, simple, visual cues to detect abnormalities
     Sustain
        Hold weekly team meetings to discuss
          accomplishments and opportunities for further 
          improvements

Bottom Line
With the help of ATS and lean manufacturing initiatives, the implemented 5S program helped Eaton organize and manage these workspaces more efficiently while reducing waste. 5S in the maintenance area has proved successful in increasing both employee productivity and employee pride.

“I greatly appreciate the effort the team has made.  It really does look better than ever!  Let’s SUSTAIN THE GAIN!”
  - John Stampfel, Fayetteville Plant Manager, Eaton Corporation