5S Lean Methodology

5S is one of the easiest Lean tools to implement, providing a systematic methodology for organizing and standardizing each station in the workplace. The components include:
  • Sort – Separate and eliminate any unnecessary items from the work area
  • Straighten – Arrange necessary items in order for easy access
  • Sanitize – Clean everything, equipment and workplace. Use cleaning as a method of inspection
  • Standardize – Create standards for the first 3S’s and make them obvious through visual techniques
  • Sustain – Sustain the gains through self-discipline and training and spread throughout the organization
5S crosses over functional boundaries, can yield immediate return on investment, and is applicable to every function within an organization. Because of its ease of implementation and the strong visual results, 5S is often one of the first CPI tools applied in the Lean implementation process.