5S is a system of workplace organization. It is fundamental to the implementation of the Lean Manufacturing principles. The 5S are :

1. Sort
2. Set in Order
3. Shine
4. Standardize
5. Sustain

Each component of the 5S is necessary to derive the benefits and sustain workplace organization.

Sort is a process of removing every non essential item from the workplace. This task is not always simple, as work areas have had years to build up items that aren’t necessary for completing the job. Examples of items that need sorted are extra tables, benches, cabinets, tools, inventory, cleaning supplies, rags, and documents. All of these extra items just get in the way of efficient production.

Set in Order is the process of organizing the remaining items after the “sort” process is completed. For example, all tools used in a setup on a machine should be placed as close as possible to where they will be used. There should be a place for everything and everything should always be in its place unless it is being used.

Shine is the third “S”. It is the process of cleaning the work area and any machinery or equipment in it. The ideal lean manufacturing implementation is to keep the equipment in the same or better shape than when it was delivered. Prior to lean manufacturing, many companies allowed their machinery to deteriorate over time. Lean Manufacturing, employing the concepts of 5S, TPM (Total Productive Maintenance), and Kaizen, keeps machinery producing the same way or better than the day it was received, even after many years of use.

Standardize is the process of making the first three S’s a habit. Many companies have went through cleaning and organizing systems over the years only to see it slip away back to an unorganized facility. Standardize is one of the most important of the 5S system. For example, if a machine is to be wiped clean at the end of a shift, it should be done every single day without fail.

The last S is Sustain, which is the one most companies failed to employ over the years. Many company managements blamed employees for this failure. However, once managements realize the benefits of 5S, they also realize it is management that stood in the way of sustaining the organization over the years.

5S reduces inefficiencies caused by poor housekeeping and organization. The principles integrate with other Lean principles to provide a Lean enterprise. For example, Quick Changeover, benefits from the order set in place with 5S. Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) must have 5S as a base element for further improvement

5S is a system that finally enables manufacturers to once and forever maintain a “customer ready” facility at all times. Our on line lean manufacturing course teaches 5S in detail. After the course, the student will be able to immediately apply the principles to change the work place forever.

BPR’s lean manufacturing certification online courses can be completed at your convenience 24/7. Simply log in and begin the course. You can stop any time and come back to where you left off. Once the course is successfully completed, the certification will be mailed to you.