What is 5S?

• 5S = Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain
• Originated and developed from Japan – Toyota Management System
• A structured approach to establishing and maintaining a well-organized workplace
• It can be used at home to organize kitchens, closets, garages, etc.

Why use it?

Work

• Stops the causes of errors and defects
• Prevents Problems
• Provides a clean and organized work area

Home

• Clean and tidy house (no clutter)
• No wasted energy on searching and retrieving things
• No money spent on extra storage

How to use 5S 

Step 1 – Sort

Eliminate everything that is not necessary

• Get rid of :
  • Unused appliances, tools, books, & medications
  • Broken things
• Separate files into necessary and unnecessary
• Create categories to put the required data and things into

Step 2 – Straighten/Set in order

Find items easier

• Arrange things in a manner that is easy to find things
  • Put files into file folders
  • Put items in the same location in the refrigerator
  • Put labels onto containers
• Keep an organized closet

Step 3- Shine/Sanitize

Clean, tidy, organize

• Tidy up at the end of each day and week
• After a DIY project, always leave the workplace tidy
• Fold and put laundry away right away
• Clean the kitchen as you cook

Step 4 – Standardize 

Define repeatable routines

• Always clean your house in the same room order
• Create a checklist that helps place everything in the right place
• Establish a standard daily/weekly schedule for home & work
• Use the same type of hangers for your clothing

Step 5 – Sustain

Maintain and review your routines 

• Review your to-do lists
  • Did you accomplish everything in time and with the expected results?
• Monthly e-mail habits review
  • Do you have your inbox under control?
• Monthly review at home and work?
  • Is everything still where it belongs?