The 5S

The 5S-work design, in the German-speaking countries often 5A, is a
mainly used in the production industry and increasingly in the service
sector methodology used, the term applies to a defined area of
action. It is an idea from the Japanese production concepts. 5S is
used as a tool to make jobs and their environment safe, clean and
clear. Order and cleanliness are essential to improve the work
processes that run on them.
Goal of a 5S program is to make the jobs so that work can proceed
smoothly, as well as searches are long distances and waiting times and
can be worked with waste-free. A clean and tidy work environment is
also considered as a basis for quality work.
As a methodological tool, the 5S can be applied in all areas of an
organization, both in production, such as in services and
administration. The direct involvement of the affected employee
(employee participation) facilitates the discovery of vulnerabilities
and the implementation of improvements. It also helps in the

implementation of required sustainability. Sustainability also serves
to visualize the standards developed in the workplace. Deviations can
quickly be recognized by outsiders, and criticized by their superiors.
In German efforts are mostly translations that retain the first letter
"S" of the original Japanese names. There are several versions in
circulation.
The 5S can be translated into German by:
Seiri: Sort of. Everything that is not required for the work at this
place sorted out.
Seiton: place tidy up. What is actually needed, one gets an ergonomic
point selected, defined and designated secure place.
Seiso: Cleaned. The workplace is cleaned from top to bottom.
Seiketsu: maintain cleanliness. This means constant cleaning and
ensure that no new objects are unplanned access to the workplace.
Shitsuke: self-discipline. In order to maintain order and cleanliness
is required discipline. Is a defined space for a tool, it is also gone
- forever. This discipline is often the beginning of the supervisor
but also later claim again and again.
By adding:
Shukan: Getting used to it. In sustainable discipline are finally on
order and cleanliness in flesh and blood.
The concept is to 6S. Some transcripts, however, go to the "A". . That
is why the concept as "5A" known [2] A notation of 5A-method is:
Sort out
Cleaning up (work equipment ergonomically arranged)
Workplace cleanliness
Arrangement for the rule making
All points and improve compliance
Based on "6S" is the German spelling "Everything runs by itself" as
the 6th "A" is used.