Kaizen, or “5S,” is a method used to diminish the slack hidden in plants. 5S represents the Japanese words Seiri, Seiton, Seison, Seiketsu, and Shitsuke, which collectively translate to a cleanup activity at the work place.
—(Monden 1993, p. 199)
The 5S program itself is a set of five simple steps which are taken to achieve and maintain a clean, well-ordered, and safe workplace (Table 1.1).
This volume starts with an explanation of the 5S program, because 5S is a critical part of a lean work design. The 5S program gives responsibility to each individual to maintain the cleanliness of their own work areas. It also gives the responsibility to the individual worker to help eliminate slack or muda (i.e., waste) ...
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