5S in Lean Manufacturing - Easy Notes
4.1 Introduction
5S is a Japanese method developed by Takashi Osada in the 1980s. It stands for Seiri,
Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu, and Shitsuke. These mean Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize,
and Sustain. The purpose of 5S is to keep the workplace clean, organized, and efficient. It
helps improve quality, speed, and waste elimination.
4.2 Stages of 5S
1■■ Seiri (Sort): Keep only necessary items. Remove unnecessary ones. Daily use items
stay nearby, rarely used items go on labeled shelves, and useless items are scrapped.
2■■ Seiton (Set in Order): Arrange all items properly. Make layout maps for tools and
equipment. Label and code everything for easy retrieval. This saves time and prevents
confusion.
3■■ Seiso (Shine): Clean the workplace regularly. Everyone should participate in cleaning
machines, tools, and data. A clean area prevents defects and delays.
4■■ Seiketsu (Standardize): Use visual control like symbols, colors, and labels to show
information clearly. Example: red light = needs refill. This keeps everything consistent and
easy to understand.
5■■ Shitsuke (Sustain): Maintain discipline. Train workers to follow 5S without being told.
Regular training helps keep the workplace clean and organized permanently.
4.3 5S for Waste Elimination
5S helps remove waste in production. The steps include appointing a 5S coordinator,
identifying wastes, creating a 5S and waste matrix, preparing manuals, training workers,
implementing 5S, measuring results, and refining processes.
Examples of 5S for waste removal:
• Seiri → Reduces delay (tools kept properly).
• Seiton → Reduces unnecessary motion (clear layout).
• Seiso → Reduces defects (removes old drawings).
• Seiketsu → Avoids underuse of facilities (visual signs show idle machines).
• Shitsuke → Avoids underuse of people (training ensures efficiency).
4.4 Implementation Process
After preparing the manual, management and employees discuss and agree to implement
5S. Training is given, usually by internal experts. Then 5S is applied in workplaces,
monitored by the coordinator, and improved based on results.
Conclusion
5S is not just about cleaning—it’s a complete system for improving efficiency, reducing
waste, and building discipline in the workplace. It supports lean manufacturing by making
processes smoother and waste-free.