Lean Six Sigma That Works

Chapter 12

5S

5S occupies an important place in the Lean Six Sigma toolbox. It’s an execution tool, and it’s a philosophy of operation. This methodology supports the reduction of the seven categories of waste as defined in a Lean environment and has a very direct impact on the foundation objective of Six Sigma: variation reduction. There are those who think 5S is merely a tool to enhance workplace organization, and there are those who think that 5S supports every aspect of a Lean Six Sigma business philosophy. We fall soundly into the latter. Let’s explore this dynamic tool.

Let’s start with the basics, the 5S terms. The usual English words correspond ...