5S is a method for creating and maintaining an organised and high performance workplace. It is also the basis for improvement programmes such as TPM.

1. 5S Stage 1 – SORT
www.optimumfx.com

2. Stage 1 - Sort
Purpose – to remove all unwanted items from the
workplace
• Define the area for 5S
• Take photographs of the current state
• Remove anything not needed for current work
• Define a ‘Red Tag’ area
• Use the ‘Red Tag’ strategy

3. ‘Red Tag’ Strategy
• A method to identify potentially unneeded items,
evaluate their usefulness, and take appropriate action
– Is it needed?
– If so, in what quantity?
– Where should it be located?
– Should it be disposed of, relocated, left where it is, or put into the
‘Red Tag Hold Area’?
• ‘Red Tag Hold Area’ – an area set aside to store red
tagged items for further evaluation
– Provides a ‘safety net’ before disposing of items
– Helps determine frequency of use

4. Steps in Red Tagging
• Launch the Red Tag project
• Identify targets
• Set criteria
• Make Red Tags
• Attach Red Tags
• Evaluate items
• Document results

5. Red Tag Example
• Bright red tag for visibility
• Pre-printed tag numbers

6. Red Tag Register