Automotive Tools and Accessories Storage

This article is written in collaboration with Driving Theory Test . Engineering machines have developed into leaders of the mechanical...

This article is written in collaboration with Driving Theory Test.

Engineering machines have developed into leaders of the mechanical world with present day advancements; it is difficult to execute numerous processes these days without the assistance of machines and robotised gears. Doubtlessly, the utilisation of machines has made our lives simpler.

Take our cars, for instance. It is made up of hundreds of bits and bobs to get the vehicle to work. These various parts require different upkeep, requiring the assistance of various tools and accessories. This leads to the problem of having enough storage space. We might keep our vehicle maintenance tools in the carport or garage, but for most of us, these spaces simply get cluttered over time. To maintain a conducive maintenance space for our precious machines, we could adopt the 5S method. Indeed, the Japan-originated 5S method is a popular workplace organisation approach that is used even by the likes of Toyota in their production facilities, but there is no reason why it cannot be scaled-down for our private carports or garages.

1: Seiri (sort)

Remove and dispose of unnecessary items

Take a look around your garage, which has a tendency to become a dumping ground for items that do not belong in the rest of the house. Are there old furniture and boxes of old clothes and toys that do not belong there? Discard them, or give them to charity.

2. Seiton (streamline)

Arrange items in the most convenient order

What are the items that are most often used? Cleaning tools, we bet. Place them within arm's reach and on eye level. What are the items that only used occasionally? Oil pan, wrench, jack and the like; place these on the lower shelves. What are the items seldom required? Spare parts and the like; place these on the higher shelves.

3. Seiso (shine)

Keep your workplace and tools clean

How easy it is to leave dirty rags and tools lying around, but these would only accumulate over time. Make it a habit to clean up immediately after each maintenance session.

4. Seiketsu (standardise)

Everyone in the household to follow suit

It is likely that you are not the only one using this space, so it is important that everyone knows where each tool goes. Simple solution - big, clear labels.

5. Shitsuke (sustain)

Make it a habit

Well, this is easier said than done. It starts with self-discipline to maintain steps #1 to #4 above. Perhaps some visuals to inspire and for you to aspire toward will help: