What Is 5S And How It Applies To Construction

I’ve talked about the 5S system before, but today I’m diving into how and where you can apply it on site. You may be wondering: where exactly can 5S be implemented, and what are the six suggestions to make it more effective? If you’re interested, you’ve come to the right place. This blog will be different from any other you’ve read about 5S. I’m going to break down its application and guide you on how to use it effectively. But before diving into specifics, let’s revisit what 5S is and then explore how you can implement it on your project. What is Five S? Five S is a system for organizing and maintaining a productive work environment. Here’s a quick rundown:

1. Sort: Remove what you don’t need.
2. Straighten: Organize and arrange what you do need.
3. Sweep (or Shine): Clean and maintain the workspace.
4. Standardize: Create standard processes, such as shadow boards or better tools.
5. Sustain: Make it a habit and continue to follow the standards daily.

Five S works across various settings—businesses, manufacturing facilities, job sites, and more. It’s an excellent way to improve productivity and create a cleaner, more organized workspace. Different Variations of the Five S Principles There are variations of Five S you might encounter, such as Six S (adding Safety) or even Nine S. Some suggest simplifying to Three S—Sort, Straighten, and Sweep. While traditionalists might stick to the original Five S, adapting it to fit your needs is perfectly fine. If you prefer, consider using the Seven S pattern tailored for project management:

1. Structure: Define the structure of your project or workspace.
2. C: Ensure that the structure is visible and understandable.
3. Sort: Eliminate unnecessary items.
4. Straighten: Organize what remains.
5. Sequence: Arrange tasks or items in a logical order.
6. Standardize: Create and follow standard procedures.
7. Sustain: Maintain and reinforce the habits.

Implementing Five S on the Job Here are six key areas to implement Five S effectively:

1. Gang Boxes: Keep your gang boxes organized and clean. A well-maintained gang box can significantly boost productivity.
2. Shop Floor Organization: Apply Five S to your work area, whether it’s a manufacturing facility or a project site.
3. Staging Areas: Organize logistical staging areas to prevent clutter and inefficiency.
4. Inventory Control: Ensure consumables and inventory are well-organized and easy to access.
5. Office Space: Apply Five S principles to office environments to create a clean and efficient workspace.
6. Company Culture: Integrate Five S into your company culture, encouraging daily improvements and organization.

Six Tips for Implementing Five S in Construction

1. Nothing Hits the Floor: Ensure all items are placed properly, especially trash.
2. Use Wheels and Carts: Make items easily movable and color-coded for efficiency.
3. Just-in-Time Delivery: Receive items only when needed to reduce clutter.
4. Cord Maintenance: Prevent tripping hazards by properly managing cords.
5. Clear Walkways: Maintain clean and accessible pathways.
6. Cleaning Stations: Set up stations for regular cleaning and maintenance.

A special shoutout to Mortensen, whose practices and resources have inspired this blog. Their commitment to Five S has greatly influenced how it’s applied in the field. For more in-depth information, check out the podcast and summarized blog post linked below. With dedication and consistent application, you can achieve the level of organization and efficiency seen in leading projects. Cleanliness, organization, and safety are the foundation of effective project management. Start with Five S, and you’ll see the difference it makes in your work environment. Onward to a more organized and productive workspace!