How 5s can help UK manufacturing
Originally developed in Japan as part of the Toyota Production System, 5S provides a structured approach to workplace organisation and is highly applicable to industrial settings where equipment reliability and cleanliness are non-negotiable.
The 5S principles can directly benefit our clients – whether in manufacturing, maintenance, logistics, or engineering – by aligning cleaning routines with operational excellence.
So, what is 5s?
The five pillars of 5S are:
- Sort (Seiri): Remove unnecessary items from work areas. In cleaning terms, this means identifying outdated or inefficient cleaning products, tools or machines.
- Set in Order (Seiton): Organise tools and equipment logically. Our mobile parts washers and on-site services help reduce the clutter of chemical drums, rags, and outdated systems.
- Shine (Seiso): Clean the workplace and equipment regularly. This is where professional parts cleaning solutions like Metalwash play a vital role in ensuring machine reliability and operator confidence.
- Standardise (Seiketsu): Establish clear procedures for cleaning, maintenance, and inspections – ensuring consistency shift after shift.
- Sustain (Shitsuke): Embed these habits into daily routines and develop a culture of ownership and pride in the workspace.
So, why does it matter?
Companies applying 5s principles often see:
- Reduced downtime due to cleaner, more reliable equipment
- Safer working conditions
- Faster maintenance turnarounds
- Improved morale and team accountability
- It’s not just about cleaning – it’s about creating an environment where people can perform at their best.
How can Metalwash Supports 5s?
Whether it’s through regular scheduled servicing, parts cleaning solutions, or environmentally friendly equipment, Metalwash enables operational teams to:
- Maintain consistent cleanliness standards
- Reduce reliance on harsh chemicals
- Eliminate hidden inefficiencies in manual cleaning practices
By embedding our services into your maintenance programme, we can help bring 5S principles to life – practically and sustainably. We are here to help – contact us on to discuss.
