1. Lean and Quality Management The 5S
What are the 5S?
Why is this important?
The steps
Compiled by:
Alex J. Ruiz-Torres, Ph.D.
From information developed by many.

2. What are the 5S?
A methodology to workspace organization originated in Japan.
Focuses on creating a clean and organized work environment to promote efficiency and less waste.
Consists of 5 steps.
Each steps starts with the letter S.
Seiri (Sort)
Seiton (Set)
Seiso (Shine)
Seiketsu (Standardize)
Shitsuke (Sustain)

3. Why is this important? Provides the foundation for lean systems.
Organization and cleanliness needed to identify wastes.
It is a very simple methodology that requires little training and investment.
Results can be obtained quickly thus a good way to start a process improvement program.
Applies to every type of organization/ work area.

4. 1. Sort The classification of materials and tools in the workplace.
Keep only what is necessary.
Relocate materials according to the frequency of use.
Maintain appropriate quantities of materials as necessary.
Get rid of materials and equipment that are not needed.

5. 2. Set – in order
Assigning locations to all the necessary materials, tools and equipment.
A place for everything needed.
Policy that everything must go to its place after use.
Makes it easy to identify when something is missing.
shadow boards

6. 3. Shining Workplace, tools, and equipment should always be clean.
Need to identify root causes of dirtiness.
At least 5 minutes per day dedicated to cleaning.
Inspection and checklists to enforce cleanliness.

7. 4. Standardizing
Developing rules and standards that everyone will follow.
Standardization of organization and materials across similar workstations.
Allows different operators to function efficiently in different but standard work areas.
Involves the consistent implementation of the previous steps.

8. 5. Sustaining Maintaining process standards and improvements
Involves employee training/education.
Implementation of progress measure including the use of checklists.
Evaluation programs and audits.