What Really Is 5S?

5S is a method for creating, maintaining and improving an orderly and clean workplace that exposes waste and problems. 5S identifies unplanned levels of inventory or unneeded items such as tools, materials, work in progress or finished goods. The use of 5S provides simple visual processes so that we can identify these issues quickly. It also provides information and feedback on how well the operational process is working. 5S can be applied to any physical process in the plant and in the office.

5S is beyond simple “housekeeping”. Improved housekeeping as well as an organized workplace are the results of 5S, however, the real purpose of 5S is to make problems more visible at first glance. 5S is an action oriented approach to change and allows people at all levels in the business to get involved and provide input towards improving their workplace.