5s Step 1, Sort (Seiri)

In the Sorting Phase you will evaluate all of the equipment, tools, materials and supplies, and other items in your work area. You will determine where each of these items fits into the current flow. Items that interfere with the flow may be stored, removed or discarded.

During the sorting phase, you will want to make sure to properly label all materials that need to be stored, removed or discarded. This is sometimes referred to as the "red tag" process. Items with a red tag are to be removed from the flow. The SafetyPro can help you by producing custom red-tags (and tags of other colors to help increase efficiency) on the spot, with custom information based on your 5s evaluation.

Once the sorting phase is completed, including removal of items from the work flow, you may move on to 5s Step 2, "Set in Order."