Introduction

5S Lean Manufacturing System

Throughout this site you will find information and resources about 5S strategies and the 5S processes for lean manufacturing.

What Is The 5S System?

The 5S System, or simply 5S, is a Japanese philosophy that promotes cleanliness and orderliness to achieve maximum productivity and quality. 5S is used by industrial plants and manufacturers, service providers, restaurants, educational institutions, and government agencies. This structured system is generally the first step toward implementing all other lean manufacturing techniques.

5S is not a form of standardized clean up, but a methodology used by companies as large as Ford Motor Corp. and as small as three-person businesses. It endorses continual organization and efficiency in a workplace with an emphasis on waste elimination and visual communication.

5S stems from five Japanese words: Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu, and Shitsuke. Loosely translated, they are sort, set in order, shine, standardize, and sustain. These words represent a five-step concept to reduce waste, streamline operations, and ultimately increase productivity.

What does 5S do?

Through a simple five-step process, 5S can increase productivity and worker safety while decreasing waste.

The principle aim of a 5S system is improved safety, efficiency, and employee morale. By deciding what should be kept, where it should be kept, and how it should be kept, 5S eliminates wasteful clutter and creates ownership of processes among workers. The results of 5s are both visually and economically dramatic.

5S relies on training, communication, and visual cues such as the use of color coding, labels and signs, and consistent storage locations for tools and supplies.

The following provide descriptions of each step in the 5S process:

Seiri | Seiton | Seiso | Seiketsu | Shitsuke