Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Why Organizing The Workplace Is Important

Employers are responsible for providing and maintaining a workplace that allows their workers to have the best chance to succeed. Every workplace is different, which means that individual employers each have different ideas regarding best organize their workplaces. However, workplace organization has the same importance whether it occurs in a factory, office or sales floor.


Efficiency


A workplace can assist or hinder worker efficiency. The workplace's organization should seek to make it easier for workers to access the tools they need to complete their tasks. It should also limit the amount of time workers spend moving between different areas within the workplace to find tools, confer with colleagues or get information. Workplace organization needs to be attentive to individual workers' needs and priorities, which is where employee input can help initiate the process.


Safety


Workplace organization also plays a key role in workplace safety. A disorganized workplace is a more likely site of accidents than an organized one, especially if tools are scattered throughout the space or the workplace is in general disrepair. Clutter makes it more difficult to move throughout the space and also hides potential sources of danger. For example, boxes stored in a hallway reduce usable space during an evacuation and may violate fire codes. They can also conceal spills, frayed wiring or vermin, all of which contribute to an unsafe environment.


Professionalism


A well-organized workplace creates an atmosphere that is both pleasant for workers and impressive to visitors. This is especially important in a workplace that hosts clients and frequent guests, since the workplace reflects the company's image. A workplace that is organized and attractive presents the business in the best professional light by indicating the attention to detail and level of care practiced by the employees to any visiting customers. Many businesses use the 5S system, which utilizes five steps to organization, including sort, shine and standardize, to create an aesthetically pleasing appearance.


Standardization


Organizing a workplace presents an opportunity for standardization, which involves removing items that don't fit within the workplace and replacing them with items that do. Standardizing can save the business time and money while also helping to create a professional environment. For example, by using only one type of computer, phone or light switch in every office, workers will understand operate them without the need for additional training. Employers can also save money by ordering workplace fixtures and equipment in quantity.







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