Spot the

Missing tool

Can you spot the missing tool or equipment in this photograph?

Without the effective use of 5S (placing limits on stored items) and visual control (providing structure, standards and sustainability) it can be time consuming to find the right kit, assuming the item is actually at the location being searched at and not is use or missing.

The ability to ascertain whether the kit or tool is actually at the location is made much easier with the use of tool Shadow Boards. A Shadow Board sets a home position and sets a limit on the number of tools and equipment that are to be stored.

When an item is in use or missing it becomes immediately obvious as a shadow indicating the shape of the item will be shown. This means no time is lost looking for a tool in the storage area when it is not located there.

Shadow Boards also encourage the correct 5S behaviours of placing the items back where they were taken from as there is an obvious visual prompt.