5S projects are a fantastic opportunity for sharing and learning across all sites in the UK.

Here we are sharing some excellent 5S improvements made at our Dry Silo Mortars plants.

Braintree Dry Silo Mortar Plant: 

1. Sort – There is a process to bag dry mortar into one tonne big bags. The issues with this increasing requirement, to make, store and deliver are as follows:
2. Set to Order – Space is required to keep bags in order, minimise manual handling and the need to work from height, removing the potential for nip points whilst handling the bags.
3. Shine – A process has been developed to be able to bag without slowing down the production capacity but eliminating the risk of Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS). This is done by incorporating an extraction system and replacing the need to use straps on the bags and redesigned bags to have sleeves.
4. Standardise – This process has now been implemented at Bedford and Dove Holes – our other bagging outlets. The area has been cladded to protect against high winds and rain.
5. Sustain – The changes have been possible with approved CapEx, and has provided improvements to staff welfare and health, improved the working environment and productivity, reduction in exposure to dust and improved product quality.

Secondly, working arrangements for Sprayed Concrete on site production nationally.

1. Sort – Nationally, the arrangements for silo Sprayed Concrete call for silos and their controls to be interfaced with other aspects on site.
2. Set in Order – This manifests itself in many ways which provides the potential for risk and hazards, trialling cables, confined working environment, the need to climb and navigate between equipment and their operation.
3. Shine – Over the years, and spending time listening and working with our customers, we have developed processes which have largely eliminated these risk/hazards.
4. Standardise – Our requirements are for platforms to meet our minimum design criteria, excellent access around the silo and where it interfaces with the pump, truck and provides appropriate access for the delivery tanker filling the silos.
5. Sustain – Cemex are seen as the experts in setting up sites, to the point now where contractors are contacting us to plan the site layout – two years in advance of the site starting.

If you have any examples of 5S improvements, please let the Communications team know!