The 5S System is a series of activities designed to improve workplace organization and standardization. These activities, all of which begin with the letter S, include:

• Sort through all items and remove unneeded items
• Set in order remaining items, set limits, create temporary location indicators
• Shine or clean everything and use cleaning as inspection
• Standardize the first 3 S's by implementing visual displays and controls
• Sustain the gains through self-discipline, training, commu­ nication, and total employee involvement

Benefits of the 5S System

• Improve quality
• Achieve work standardization
• Decrease changeover time
• Improve safety
• Reduce storage costs
• Reduce cycle time
• Reduce machine down time
• Boost employee morale

Successes

Through the implementation of visual controls to improve workplace organization, a metal fabrication company was able to increase inventory turns by 67%, reduce inventory by 35% , and increase on-time shipping to 99% .

A truck cover manufacturer standardized its housekeeping efforts, inventory control methods, and business practices. This resulted in a 50% reduction of inventory costs and a 67% increase in sales.