What is 5s and why is it important?

5S is a method for removing all excess materials and tools from the workplace and organizing the required items such that they are easy to find, use, and maintain.

Almost any work environment will benefit from the structure and efficiency this model provides.

Let see a brief introduction of 5 S elements. 

Sort (Seiri)

No unnecessary items at the workplace: “When in doubt, throw it out!”

Set in Order (Seiton)

Anyone can instantly find, take, and return any needed item: “A place for everything, and everything in its place”

Shine (Seiso)

Deviations become visual by cleaning: “Cleaning = inspection; Cleaning with meaning”

Standardize (Seiketsu) 

Visualize the 5S standards in the workplace: “Make the best way the easiest way.

Sustain (Shitsuke) 

Everybody follows the standard until we have a better one:“Stick to it!”

5S is a process and method for creating and maintaining an organized, clean, and high-performance workplace.

The true power of 5S reveals itself when your whole organization embraces its ideals and your employees see that your business is transforming itself.

The 5S model for workplace efficiency and organization is both powerful and simple.

It has the potential to transform your company into a safe and productive warehouse, manufacturing facility, or office. One of 5S’s most powerful attributes is that it’s a visual model.

5S is sometimes called the five pillars because just like the physical pillars that hold up a structure, 5S has five elements that support the effectiveness of the system.

And just like the pillars of a building, if one was to weaken or fail, the entire structure would fall.

Each tool has an outlined home and each pathway is marked with lines. Vision is our dominant sense, and because 5S uses colours, lines, and labels to organize, following the steps becomes second nature very easily.

Benefits of 5S

• Improved safety
• A clean, orderly workplace
• Improved efficiency
• Increased employee morale
• Standardized work methods

Learn more about 5S in our Online Course of 5S System