APPLICATION OF 7S METHODOLOGY: A SYSTEMATIC APPROACH IN A BUCKET MANUFACTURING ORGANISATION

• Nita Sukdeo Department of Quality and Operations Management, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg, South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4126-9682
• Kemlall Ramdass Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of South Africa, South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5480-3368
• Given Petja Department of Quality and Operations Management, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg, South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8120-1773

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7166/31-4-2283

Keywords:

7S, productivity, performance, conformance, safety, audit

Abstract

While the initial 5S methodology focused on sorting, cleaning, standardising, and sustaining the work environment, 7S is a new methodology that has been modified to incorporate a culture of safety and team spirit. The paper describes the application of 7S methodology as a systematic approach to increasing efficiency, quality, and safety performance in modern manufacturing organisations. The 7S approach sets the stage for effective lean manufacturing and continuous improvement efforts, stressing a tidy, safe, and organised working environment. The systematic application of 7S requires the application of international standards such as OHSAS 18001 to improve employees’ occupational health and safety. The case organisation in the study produces buckets for the construction industry. The study’s findings revealed the elimination of production problems such as delays, underused space, and non-conformance to safety measures through a holistic application of 7S. 7S also correlates with operational performance — explicitly those aspects of operational performance which influencing the overall quality and productivity of the organisation.