FIVE STEPS (5S CONCEPT) TO AN EFFICIENT WORKING PLACE IN THE MILITARY

An awareness programme on the 5S Concept was conducted under the patronage of Major General K V N P Premaratne RSP USP nps psc, the Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force (SLAVF) on 8 September 2025 at the Multifunctional Hall, Headquarters SLAVF.

The primary objective of conducting this event, in line with the visionary concept of the Commandant of the SLAVF, is to adopt the 5S methodology to enhance operational effectiveness and foster a culture of continuous improvement within the SLAVF.

The lecture was conducted by Mr. D M Sugath Bandara Dasanayaka, who currently serves as a member of the National Productivity Secretariat – Certification Body (NPS-CB). He is professionally sound in his field and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of Peradeniya. Additionally, he possesses a Diploma in Productivity from the National Productivity Secretariat, along with several other key qualifications relevant to his area of expertise.

During the programme, the lecturer spelled out the 5S concept: five steps: Sort (Seiri), Set in Order (Seiton), Shine (Seiso), Standardize (Seiketsu) and Sustain (Shitsuke) that should be followed for organizing and maintaining a clean, safe and efficient workplace in the military. This methodology, originating from Japan, improves efficiency, reduces waste and hazards and is applied to various functions like supply and warehousing to enhance productivity and safety.

The occasion was attended by senior officers, officers and other ranks of the Headquarters SLAVF.