The 5S Housekeeping System
5s is the name of a workplace organization methodology that uses a list of five Japanese words which are
seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu, shitsuke. Transliterated or translated into English, they all start with the letter “S”. It is
synonymous with standardized clean up. The list describes how items are stored and how the new order is
maintained. The decision-making process usually comes from a dialogue about stardadization which builds a clear
understanding of the process in each employee.
Seiri (Sort)
TIDINESS, ORGANIZATION
Taking out and disposing of unnecessary items.
Unneeded items are thrown away or disposed.
Refers to the practice of sorting and through all the tools. Materials, etc., in the work area and
keeping only essentials items. Everything else stored or discarded. This leads to fewer hazards and
less clutter to interfere with productive work.
Note: Things that clutter the workplace that are needed should be taken out. The usually occupy
space and restrict physical movement.
Seiton ( Systematize)
ORDERLINESS: Tools, equipment, and materials must be systematically arranged for the easiest
and most efficient access.
Arrangement/ Organization of necessary items in good order.
Assign a place for everything. The most often used item should be nearest and ergonomically
situated, meaning – there should be little effort required in accessing, using and returning the
equipment, tools and parts, even documents. There must be a place for everything, and
everything must be in place.
Seiso (Sweep)
CLEANLINESS: Cleaning even if things are NOT DIRTY. A regular cleaning schedule prevents things
from getting too dirty that it would be difficult to making it clean and span.
Indicates the need to keep the workplace clean as well as neat. Cleaning in Japanese companies
is a daily activity. At the end of each shift, the work area is cleaned up and everything restored to
its place.
Seiketsu ( Standardize)
STANDARDIZE: Maintaining the workplace in high standard housekeeping.
Allows for control and consistency. Basic housekeeping standard apply everywhere in facility.
Everyone knows exactly what his or her responsibilities are. Housekeeping duties are part of
regular work routines.
Prepare Housekeeping Standard Checklist. Checklist should be very detailed and stringent.
Remember that thoroughness is a requirement of EXCELLENCE.
EVALUATE workstation according to the Housekeeping Standard Checklist.
IMPLEMENT a period clean-up schedule; and an award and sanction scheme.
Tips in Preparing a Housekeeping Standard Checklist:
Keep it simple – one page checklist
Follow a logical sequence
Use bullet enumerated points, if relevant and necessary
Consider the 5WH
Avoid making assumptions
From each item in your checklist, other items will naturally originate from it.
Note: Some samples of housekeeping and equipment standard checklist were presented in previous
topics.
Shitsuke (Self-discipline)
SUSTAINING DISCIPLINE: Doing things spontaneously without having told.
“Teach by doing”
It is good discipline to leave the workplace cleaner than when it is found.
Refers to maintaining standards and keeping the facility in safe and efficient order day after day,
year after year.
