Lean manufacturing is one of the most prominent trends in production and is essential to any successful manufacturer. 5S lean manufacturing is a workplace organizational philosophy that makes operations cleaner, safer, and most importantly more efficient.
This Japanese term stands for Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu, and Shitsuke, which are often translated to Sort, Set, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain. By implementing 5S, manufacturers will save great deals of time and prevent unnecessary waste by reorganizing the entire workplace to accelerate everyday tasks.
The Five S's of 5S Lean Manufacturing
1. Seiri (Sort)
Start by removing all items from the work area. Inspect the equipment and identify those items that are critical to the function performed at the workstation. Eliminate any duplicates, unnecessary equipment, infrequently used items, and trash.
Separate essential and non-essential items, and then separate the non-essential items into two categories: waste or non-critical. Store the non-critical items outside of the workstation area, get rid of the waste.
2. Seiton (Set)
Whatever equipment is deemed critical to the operation must now be organized. Assign specific positions for all equipment and materials. While doing so, keep in mind to identify where these items will go, while also making them easily accessible.
The goal is to maximize the efficiency of the workstation layout. The most frequently used tools should be the most convenient to grab.
3. Seiso (Shine)
A clean workspace is a productive workspace, and Seiso literally means "to clean or shine." Clean the floors, walls, and the equipment, then ensure all items are restored to their designated place. Make sure the workstation is well lit. This should be a daily task, and should not be postponed.
Learn lean manufacturing storage principles. Download the Lean Manufacturing Storage Guidebook!
4. Seiketsu (Standardize)
Make the previous three S’s part of standard procedures each day. Implement them with the help of signs, banners, shadow boards, tool holders, etc. Make sure all workers understand their responsibilities and are empowered to perform all of the tasks.
Standardization can be a difficult process - if the methodology is not enforced, employees will fall into their old ways. Provide a 5S Lean Manufacturing checklist to employees that they should complete each week.
5. Shitsuke (Sustain)
Be sure to maintain this neat and organized workplace. Sustaining is all about continuously knocking problems out as they arise, this prevents organization in the workplace from getting out of hand. An integral part of this step is teaching employees the 5S methodology. Regularly hold seminars or lessons to keep employees up to date with procedures.
When implemented correctly, 5S Lean Manufacturing results in a safe, lean, and organized workplace. It makes it easy to spot missing tools, inefficiencies, and safety hazards. Workflow is simplified and nonconformities are easily identifiable. Employees will also have the satisfaction of working in an environment that they have taken ownership of by cleaning and organizing it!
UNEX Solutions that Support 5S Lean Manufacturing
Implementing 5S Lean Manufacturing requires more than just discipline and routine—it demands practical solutions that make sorting, organizing, cleaning, and standardizing easy to achieve and sustain. UNEX offers solutions that are designed to bring clarity, efficiency, and structure to every workstation, helping manufacturers successfully execute each of the five S's.
FlowCell: FlowCell modular workstations are ideal for Seiri (Sort) and Seiton (Set) by creating structured, designated areas for essential tools, parts, and equipment. With customizable configurations, FlowCell allows teams to separate necessary from unnecessary items, then position what’s needed within arm’s reach. This streamlines workstation layouts, reduces clutter, and ensures operators spend less time searching and more time producing.
Pick Shelves: Pick Shelves enhance Seiton (Set) and Seiso (Shine) by improving visibility and accessibility of small parts and tools. Their angled design makes it easy to spot missing items and maintain visual order, encouraging daily organization and faster replenishment. These shelves are easy to clean and integrate seamlessly into lean work environments.
Roller Rack: Roller Rack systems help support Seiketsu (Standardize) by establishing fixed, clearly defined storage lanes for parts and inventory. The structured layout simplifies stocking and picking processes, making it easy for employees to follow standard procedures. Labels and signage are easily incorporated into the rack’s design, reinforcing order and visual control.
SpanTrack: SpanTrack carton flow systems contribute across multiple 5S pillars—especially Seiketsu (Standardize) and Shitsuke (Sustain). SpanTrack delivers consistent, FIFO material flow within racks, helping maintain a predictable, organized workflow. Its drop-in design supports long-term lean practices by reducing excess inventory, improving visibility, and ensuring materials are always ready at the point of use.
Implement 5S Lean Manufacturing with UNEX
UNEX offers smart solutions that help manufacturers implement and maintain 5S Lean Manufacturing practices for safer, cleaner, more productive workplaces. Contact us today to learn how UNEX products can help you reduce waste, improve productivity, enhance safety, and maximize cost savings.
