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More information on the 5S steps

5S is a popular tool used in lean manufacturing environments and its primary benefit is its simple approach.  Too many, it appears just like good old-fashioned common sense.  This article outlines some of 5S' obvious benefits:

Phase 1 -  (整理) Seiri (Sorting): This is a process to get rid of any unnecessary tools and equipment items from the workplace area.  Everything else is either discarded or stored. This step is crucial to achieving greater efficiency through workplace design.

Phase 2 -  (整頓) Seiton (Set in Order):  This process focuses on organising work areas for maximum efficiency by organising tools & equipment to promote optimum workflows through minimising movement.  For instance, all tools & equipment should be located as close as possible to where they'll be needed and processes designed to maximise efficiency. For example, if a tool is only to be used at the end of a machine, that's where it should be located.  

Phase 3 -  (清掃) Seisō (Sweeping): This method relates to maintaining a disciplined, systematic approach to ensure a clean & tidy workplace and tip-top machines.  When every shift ends, work areas are tidied and tools and equipment are returned to their designated locations.  This should be carried out every day, rather than become an ad-hoc activity that's introduced when things become disorganised.  This principle also suggests that, by regularly cleaning machinery and retaining it close to its original condition when it was bought, its efficiency and quality will not be greatly affected. Machinery that is retained in good condition tend to experience less unproductive downtime and will produce quality levels which are very close to new machinery.

Phase 4 -  (清潔) Seiketsu (Standardizing): This requires that work practices are followed in a uniform and consistent manner. Many companies have followed the first three Ss many times, only to observe conditions that slowly deteriorate.  The “Standardize” part of the 5S system addresses this issue.  It's better described as the “what, when, whom, and where” of 5S. For instance, when a specific machine needs to be maintained, there should be a system (typically checklists and documented instructions) that details what needs to be done, when it must be done, by whom and where. 

Phase 5 - (躾) Shitsuke (Sustain the system):  The process of sustaining the system is considered to be the more difficult S to accomplish.  Years of experience showed that the other 4S' were not always followed. Maintaining a strong focus on this innovative method of working is essential to prevent anyone slipping back into their previous habits and ways of working.  One method to sustain the system is to carry out regular audits, although care must be taken to avoid a system that isn't punitive. The 5S system relies on staff involvement and commitment at every levels, and an audit that punishes people will potentially destroy any good work that should arise from the audit. 

A good 5S implementation has several advantages.   The company's assets are kept in good working order.  Quality is maintained to levels similar to when plant and equipment was first bought.  Maintenance costs are less because deterioration is identified quickly.  Setup times reduce due to better organization and perhaps the greatest benefit is that staff morale improves due to improved working environments.  Some senior management may feel that staff won't sustain clean and tidy environments.  However, in most 5S managers' experience, they find that employees will implement and will happily sustain the 5S system.  Staff prefer an organized, safe, and clean workplace with a 5S culture, rather than a dirty, disorganized one.