Introduction

What is 5s
What are the 5ss
How to implement 5s
5s Definition
Over the years there has been thousands
of papers and books written about the
subject, in each of these articles a 5s
definition will be presented.
In each of these articles also, the
definition will vary slightly from author to
author
5s Definition cont.,
5s improves visual management and
projects an impression of an empowered
work force and a well organised
management team. A clean work
environment can improve moral, quality,
reduce waste, increase productivity
The 5ss
Seiri sort
Seiton set in order
Seiso shine
Seiketsu standardise
Shitsuke - sustain
1 Seiri - sort
The first stage of the 5s method
This phase should identify and eliminate
things like, clutter, local hazards, broken
tools, poor or missing work instructions,
are workbenches the correct height,
waste, obsolete items/documents,
temporary repairs which need to be made
permanent
Seiri sort (how)
A popular tool is to red tag and record
Remove the obvious, litter, scrap, ect
Identify items to be tagged i.e., tools,
products, parts, S.O.Ps, tins, boxes, ect
Tag and record all items
Evaluate the tagged items
Set a time line with the 5s team
Document results
2 Seiton set in order
The second stage of the 5s method
This phase should identify unsafe
conditions and waste reduction
opportunities i.e., reduced motion ( have
tools ect at hand ), ensure operators
movements are minimised, eliminate
excess WIP, ect
Seiton set in order (how)
Make some decisions?
Principles of storing tools (shadow board,
tool trolley ect)
Eliminate waste as much as possible,
operator motion, WIP ect
Implement some visual controls
Keep feedback clear to encourage
participation of all
3 Seiso - shine
The third stage of the 5s method
This phase generally reflects the level of
commitment, how? clean do you want the
environment..
Set the standard required, clean floors,
wipe down machinery, re-paint if required
Seiso shine (how)
When starting this phase ensure to capture
some data:-
How long did it take to clean the area to the
standard required and how long will it take in the
future to maintain that standard
Take photographs (before and after) to ensure
the standard does not get diluted with time
Use visual management boards for clarity of
information, work detail, procedures/targets
4 Seiketsu - standardise
The fourth stage of the 5s method
This stage draws upon the previous work
done and work tasks are detailed
SOPs are clear and easy to understand
Time is allocated to the 5s methodology
The MOST important factor during this
stage is that there is no single burden, as
5s success is divided among all.
Seiketsu standardise (how)
Develop procedures to maintain standards
Assign tasks and responsibilities
Build the task lists (daily, weekly etc) and
keep records (use the visual management
board)
Review the common purpose of 5s and
emend SOPs as and when required

5 Shitsuke sustain
The fifth stage of the 5s method
This stage is the policing of 5s. Make it an
habit of constantly reviewing procedures
and standards
Note. This is the stage is where
organisations fail, manage your time well
and make time for 5s
Shitsuke sustain (how)
Allocate time for cleaning activities
Support each other for the common goal
Be visual with reports and procedures
Be honest. with yourself and your team
5s for most is a huge culture change, so check,
support, encourage each other
Audits. the management tool to ensure
compliance and SUCCESS