One of India’s largest commercial ports, Adani Ports, has successfully implemented the 5S methodology. The flagship port of Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) in Gujarat was awarded a certificate for the implementation of the 5S Workplace Management System by the National Productivity Council, which comes under the Government of India; with this, it becomes the first port in the country to successfully implement the methodology. Across India, every port managed by APSEZ has since implemented the 5S system.
Karan Adani, CEO of Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone, released a book on ‘5S Workplace Management System – A Business Excellence Initiative of APSEZ’, which provides guidance for efficient management of ports with case studies and examples. It also presents Adani Ports’ vision for a successful business model based on operational efficiency, productivity and excellence.
The 5S system is a Japanese management technique that helps businesses and customers to achieve optimal output. The five ‘S’ are Sort, Set-in order, Shine, Standardize and Sustain, which enables the workplace to have a safe, effective and efficient working environment that helps in increasing the output of the business.
APSEZ has implemented 5S principles at Adani Kandla Bulk Terminal Private Limited in Tuna, Marine Infrastructure Developer Private Limited in Chennai, Dhamra Port Company Limited in Odisha, Adani Krishnapatnam Port Ltd in Andhra Pradesh, Adani Ennore Container Terminal Private Limited in Chennai, Gangavaram Port Limited in Visakhapatnam, Adani Petronet (Dahej) Port Ltd., Adani Hazira Port Limited, Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone Limited in Mundra and Adani Murmugao Port Terminal Private Limited in Goa.
This approach helps in achieving exceptional and sustainable returns for customers by optimizing operations. It also brings benefits such as security, productivity, cost optimization and increased employee engagement. Many organisations across the country and the world have seen improvements after adopting the 5S methodology.
With safety being paramount in port operations, potential hazards and obstacles can be identified by implementing the 5S method, which can decrease the risk of accidents and injuries. Engaging employees in these processes also increases a sense of ownership and pride in their work environment. The 5S system is a valuable approach for effective operations at ports and for delivering exceptional and timely output to customers.