Abstract:

The aim of this reaserch is to identify the nature of the relationship between safety of working conditions and the way and scope of implementation of 5S practices. In other words, it means identifying the goals set for the implementation of 5S in the perspective of working conditions and analyzing their real and potential impact on employees' health. For this purpose, the authors conducted bibliographic search, in-depth interviews with company managers and employees, analysed documentation from the implementation of the 5S practices in order to establish practical support for previous theoretical findings. The study used the method of case study. Consequently, the practices used in manufacturing companies during implementation of 5S principles were identified. In most of the analysed implementations, the context of working conditions and the potential effects of the implementations on physical health and mental comfort of employees were not taken into account. The research indicated the dominant objective of these practices oriented at maximizing labour productivity. survey was conducted in several representative companies from the Lower Silesia region of Poland. Many of the results and the conclusions drawn based on the survey may be culturally determined, which requires a critical approach to the findings obtained globally. This allows, however, for furthering the research to investigate the expectations regarding working conditions depending on cultural or religious determinants. Practical implications: The study identified the areas which can improve mental well-being and health of workers during the implementation and use of 5S. The research conducted in the cognitive layer allows for a better understanding of the phenomena accompanying the implementation of 5S practices and their effect on working conditions and, consequently, on employee health.