A 5S program is usually a part of, and the key component of establishing a Visual Workplace. and are both a part of Kaizen - a system of continual improvement - which is a component of lean manufacturing.

The 5S program is focusing on the establishment of visual order, organization, cleanliness and standardization. By introducing 5S the company can achieve improved profitability, efficiency, service and safety for the employees.

The 5 principles all appear to be simple and based on common sense, and can relatively easy be implemented in almost all businesses.

The 5S principles are listed below:

Sort

The first step in making things cleaned up and organized

Set In Order

Organize, identify and arrange everything in a work area

Shine

Regular cleaning and maintenance

Standardize

Make it easy to maintain - simplify and standardize

Sustain

Maintaining what has been accomplished

The implementation of 5S in the workplace will potentially have the following advantages:

§      Reduction of Inventory

§      Less time used for searching e.g. spare parts and tools

§      Reduction of accidents

§      Improve working conditions

§      Reduction of production standstill