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What Is the 5S System?

The 5S system is a lean manufacturing tool that improves workplace efficiency and eliminates waste. Managers and workers achieve greater organization, standardization, and efficiency—all while reducing costs and boosting productivity. The core principles of 5S involve creating and maintaining:
• Visual order  • Organization  • Cleanliness  • Standardization

With these goals in place, the workplace becomes organized, work is done efficiently and safely, and problems are quickly found and eliminated.

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What Are the Five Ss?

5S stands for the Japanese words

• seiri (tidiness)
• seiton (orderliness)
• seiso (cleanliness)
• seiketsu (standardization)
• shitsuke (discipline)

These translations have been changed from Japanese to English and Malay as follows to maintain the 5Ss:

Sisih

Sort Seiri

Remove unnecessary items from the work area. Attach removal tags to infrequently used items.

Susun

Set In Order Seiton

Customize the work area to improve efficiency. Keep important materials nearby. Implement visual organization to streamline workflow and improve efficiency.

Sapu

Shine Seiso

Clean the work area, equipment and tools. Find and eliminate sources of contamination.

Seragam

Standardize Seiketsu

Create a standardized and consistent 5S workflow. Assign tasks and create schedules so that everyone knows their responsibilities.

Sentiasa Amal

Sustain Shitsuke

Ensure that 5S is a long-term, company-wide goal. Analyze results, hold team meetings and train workers on the importance of 5S.