'5S' is a methodology for organizing, cleaning, developing and sustaining a productive work environment. The objective is creating a neat, clutter-free working environment. The "5" and "S" come from the five Japanese words: seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu, and shitsuke. The English equivalents are; sort, set, shine, standardize, and sustain.
Sort- gets rid of clutter- items which are not used in the work area should be removed. items infrequently used should be properly identified and stored out of sight .
Set in order - organize the work area- A place for everything and every thing in place. All production items and their storage areas should be clearly identified. Setting up shadow boards that clearly identify where hand tools should be hung and stored is a good idea. This avoids hidden storage in private tool boxes and opens up the sharing of tools. Accessibility should be prioritized with reference to use. Cleaning materials must be stored in the work area not shared.
Shine - clean and buff up the work area on a schedule. It is essential that enough attention be paid to the neatness of work stations so that the worker will be able to take pride in ownership. Also, a clean area is safer. Excess debris, cut metals, nails, grease etc are eliminated.
Standardize- Establish written standards for key procedures. For instance, keeping order and cleaning work stations are important and specific time should be part of a procedure, reserved for end of day and/or end of task.
Sustain- Maintain the standards through training, empowerment, commitment and discipline.
The benefits are better organization, safer workplaces, and reductions in hand tool inventories, reductions in misplaced equipment and an increase in productivity.
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