Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba
GWERU Provincial Hospital (GPH) has taken a major step to boost workplace efficiency and enhance patient care by adopting the 5S methodology.
The 5S methodology improves efficiency and patient safety through five steps: Sort (remove unnecessary items), Set in Order (organize necessary items for easy access), Shine (clean and inspect the work area), Standardise (create consistent procedures for the first three S’s), and Sustain (maintain the standards over time).
Its goal is to create a less frustrating work environment, ensure essential equipment is always available, and reduce waste.
The hospital hosted a 5S Concept Awareness Day, bringing together staff, management, and stakeholders to promote a culture of cleanliness, organisation, and quality service delivery.
Addressing health personnel and stakeholders, GPH Medical Superintendent Dr Fabian Mashingaidze said the event “is aimed at enhancing workplace efficiency, improving patient care, and fostering a culture of cleanliness and organisation within the institution.”
“We are gathered here for this event that has brought together hospital staff, management, and key stakeholders to emphasise the importance of the 5S methodology – Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardise, and Sustain – a globally recognised system used to create safer, more organised, and more efficient working environments,” he said.
Dr Mashingaidze stressed the importance of adopting 5S to improve service delivery and reduce operational inefficiencies. He noted that a clean and well-organised workspace directly contributes to improved patient outcomes, faster response times, and better staff morale.
Various departments, including casualty, maternity, and private wards, demonstrated their efforts in applying 5S principles through proper waste management, equipment arrangement, infection control, and maintaining standard operating procedures.
Staff members participated in practical clean-up exercises, training sessions, and discussions on sustaining the 5S culture beyond the awareness day.
