5S is a method for organizing a workplace, especially a shared workplace (like a shop floor or an office space), and keeping it organized. These are:

Phase 1 - Seiri Sorting: Going through all the tools, materials, etc., in the plant and work area and keeping only essential items. Surpluses are stored or discarded.

Phase 2 - Seiton Straighten or Set in Order: Focuses on efficiency. The intent is to arrange tools, equipment and parts in a manner that promotes work flow. For example, tools and equipment should be kept where they will be used (i.e. straighten the flow path), and the process should be set in an order that maximizes efficiency.

Phase 3 - Seiso Sweeping: Systematic Cleaning or the need to keep the workplace clean as well as neat. At the end of each shift, the work area is cleaned up and everything is restored to its place. This makes it easy to know what goes where and have confidence that everything is where it should be. The key point is that maintaining cleanliness should be part of the daily work - not an occasional activity initiated when things get too messy.

Phase 4 - Seiketsu Standardizing: Standardized work practices or operating in a consistent and standardized fashion. Everyone knows exactly what his or her responsibilities are to keep the above 3S's.

Phase 5 - Shitsuke Sustaining: Refers to maintaining and reviewing standards. Once the previous 4S's have been established they become the new way to operate.

Maintain the focus on this new way of operating, and do not allow a gradual decline back to the old ways of operating. However, when an issue arises such as a suggested improvement, a new way of working, a new tool, or a new output requirement then a review of the first 4S's is appropriate.