5S is a Japanese methodology focused on organization, standardization, and discipline in work environments. It is often the first step in the implementation of Lean culture in factories, laboratories, and offices, and has a direct impact on the efficiency, safety, and quality of industrial processes.
Before improving a process, it is necessary to organize the environment in which it occurs.
✳️ What do the 5S mean?
| S | Japanese Term | Translation | Objective |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st S | Seiri | Sense of Use | Separate what is useful from what is not, eliminating excess |
| 2nd S | Seiton | Sense of Organization | Organize items in a logical and accessible manner |
| 3rd S | Seisō | Sense of Cleanliness | Keep the environment clean and identify visual anomalies |
| 4th S | Seiketsu | Sense of Standardization | Create rules and standards to maintain the desired state |
| 5th S | Shitsuke | Sense of Discipline | Cultivate the habit and responsibility of following standards |
🏭 Where to apply 5S?
- 🧪 Laboratories and automated test benches
- 🔧 Industrial maintenance (standardization of tools)
- 🏭 SMT production lines and mechanical assembly
- 📁 Technical offices and administrative areas
- 📦 Stock and warehouse of components and supplies
💻 Application of 5S in digital organization
5S should also be applied in the organization of files and folders on computers used in test benches, engineering, or maintenance. Maintaining a logical, clean, and standardized directory structure prevents operational errors, rework, and data loss. Technicians and operators should easily find:
- Test sequence files (TestStand, LabVIEW, scripts)
- Correct firmware by version and serial number
- Test reports traceable by date and DUT
- Updated electrical layouts, manuals, and validation documents
A disorganized folder can pose the same risks as a chaotic bench: failures, rework, and loss of productivity.
🎯 Benefits of 5S in practice
| Result | Impact on operation |
|---|---|
| Reduction of waste | Less time searching for items, less rework |
| More safety | Eliminates hidden risks and reduces accidents |
| Ease of maintenance | Everything in the right place with a defined standard |
| Foundation for Lean improvement | Makes failure and deviation points visible |
| Team motivation | Clean and organized environments promote pride and engagement |
🔧 How AJOLLY Testing applies 5S
At AJOLLY Testing, 5S is part of the routine at all stages of project and execution:
- Organization of tools, cables, and connectors on test benches
- Visual identification (labels, colors, QR codes) on instruments and DUTs
- Standardization of assembly and disassembly of jigs and fixtures
- Cleaning routines and visual checks at test stations
- Training of technical and operational teams focusing on discipline and maintenance of standards
- Digital organization of technical files, firmware, test sequences, and reports with traceability