5S

5S is a system for organizing spaces so work can be performed efficiently, effectively, and safely. This system focuses on putting everything where it belongs and keeping the workplace clean, which makes it easier for people to do their jobs without wasting time or risking injury.

5S Translation

The term 5S comes from five Japanese words:

· Seiri

· Seiton

· Seiso

· Seiketsu

· Shitsuke

In English, these words are often translated to:

· Sort

· Set in Order

· Shine

· Standardize

· Sustain

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

The Origins of 5S – 5S & Lean Manufacturing

5S began as part of the Toyota Production System (TPS), the manufacturing method begun by leaders at the Toyota Motor Company in the early and mid-20th century. This system, often referred to as Lean manufacturing in the West, aims to increase the value of products or services for customers. This is often accomplished by finding and eliminating waste from production processes. Lean manufacturing involves the use of many tools such as 5S, kaizen, kanban, jidoka, heijunka, and poka-yoke. 5S is considered a foundational part of the Toyota Production System because until the workplace is in a clean, organized state, achieving consistently good results is difficult. A messy, cluttered space can lead to mistakes, slowdowns in production, and even accidents, all of which interrupt operations and negatively impact a company. By having a systematically organized facility, a company increases the likelihood that production will occur exactly as it should.

Benefits of 5S

Over time, the 5S methodology leads to many benefits, including:

· Reduced costs

· Higher quality

· Increased productivity

· Greater employee satisfaction

· A safer work environment

What Are the 5 S's?

The 5S concept might sound a little abstract at this point, but in reality it's a very practical, hands-on tool that everyone in the workplace can be a part of. 5S involves assessing everything present in a space, removing what's unnecessary, organizing things logically, performing housekeeping tasks, and keeping this cycle going. Organize, clean, repeat. Let's take a closer look at each of the parts of 5S.

Sort

The first step of 5S, Sort, involves going through all the tools, furniture, materials, equipment, etc. in a work area to determine what needs to be present and what can be removed. Some questions to ask during this phase include:

· What is the purpose of this item?

· When was this item last used?

· How frequently is it used?

· Who uses it?

· Does it really need to be here?