Every successful continuous improvement effort begins with organization. The 5S system is a practical, step-by-step method that helps teams create cleaner, safer, and more efficient workplaces.
Whether you are on a production floor or in an office, 5S turns chaos into clarity by giving everything a place and a purpose. The first three steps—Sort, Set in Order, and Shine—lay the foundation for long-term success.
Step 1: Sort
The first step is to remove what you do not need. Go through every tool, part, and piece of equipment in your area and decide whether it truly supports your daily operations.
Ask questions like:
When was this last used?
What purpose does it serve?
Would removing it affect production?
Items that are not regularly used should be red tagged and moved to a designated holding area for evaluation. The goal is to eliminate clutter so employees can focus on value-added work.
Remember, sorting is not about throwing things away. It is about creating space for what matters most.
Step 2: Set in Order
Once unnecessary items are removed, it is time to organize what remains. This step focuses on efficiency and visibility.
Arrange tools, supplies, and materials in logical order.
Keep frequently used items close to where they are needed.
Label shelves, bins, and drawers so anyone can find and return items easily.
Use floor tape, signage, or color coding to make locations clear.
A good rule to remember is: A place for everything and everything in its place.
When items are easy to locate and return, work flows smoothly, waste is reduced, and downtime decreases.
Step 3: Shine
Shine goes beyond cleaning. It is about maintaining a work area that makes problems visible before they become costly.
Wipe down machines, floors, and work surfaces each shift.
Inspect equipment while cleaning to identify leaks, wear, or other issues early.
Assign clear responsibilities for cleaning and inspection tasks.
A clean workspace builds pride, boosts morale, and improves safety. It also helps employees quickly recognize when something is out of place.
Turning 5S Into a Habit
Sort, Set in Order, and Shine are the building blocks of continuous improvement. When practiced daily, these steps help teams reduce waste, improve quality, and create a more reliable production environment.
To keep your results consistent, continue with the final two phases—Standardize and Sustain—which are designed to make 5S a permanent part of your culture.
Start Your 5S Journey Today
If your facility feels cluttered or disorganized, 5S is the perfect place to begin. Download the UT CIS 5S Workplace Organization Resource Guide to access detailed checklists, red tag templates, and audit tools that make it easy to launch your first 5S project.
The Tennessee Manufacturing Extension Partnership (TMEP) can also provide on-site support and training to help your team build lasting improvements. Contact your local solutions consultant today to get started.