What is 5S or Five S

What is 5S or Five S

In lean manufacturing 5S is a system for organizing workplace so work can be performed in an efficient way, with a safe environment. In 5s we focus on putting everything where it belongs and keep the working area clean, which makes it easier for us to do our jobs without wasting time or risking injury.

What is 5S or Five S

The term 5S or five S originally comes from five Japanese words. Which are mentioned below with English meaning:

1-                1-      Seiri

2-      Seiton

3-      Seiso

4-      Seiketsu

5-      Shitsuke

Below is translation of above 5 words.

1-                1-         Sort

2-      Set in Order

3-      Shine

4-      Standardize

5-      Sustain

Each S represents the one step of a five S process that can improve the overall function of any business.

Sort:

In this step of 5s methodology we sort things in workplace. This step involves identifying & classifying the necessary things in our workspace and eliminate the excess or unnecessary things. This step helps to reduce clutter, reduce interruptions, and streamline the workplace.

What is 5S or Five S

Set in Order / Straighten:

In previous step we identified and classified necessary items. Now 2nd step is to set it in order things which are necessary. This step involves organizing the compulsory items logically and systematically. This includes assigning a specific area for each item and tagging them for easy identification. This helps to minimize searching time and eliminate the need for excess inventory.

 

Shine:

The 3rd step in the 5S methodology is to shine working area. This step involves maintaining and cleaning and the workplace. This includes regular cleaning, inspection, and maintenance on daily basis to ensure everything is in working order & defects-free.

What is 5S or Five S

Standardize:

The 4th step in the Five S methodology is to standardize. This step involves making a set of procedures and guidelines for maintaining the working area. This includes documenting the previous 3 steps and starting a regular plan for their implementation.

 

Sustain:

The 5^th & final step in the 5S methodology is to sustain. This step involves creating or making a culture of continuous improvement, where the previous 4 steps are consistently followed by all employees, and the workplace is continually optimized. 

What is 5S or Five S