7s

7S is a workplace organization and continuous improvement framework derived from the traditional 5S method used in lean manufacturing. It expands the core concept by adding two additional focus areas, creating a seven-element approach to workplace efficiency, safety, and security. The seven elements are Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain, Safety, and Security. In practice, teams apply the same disciplined routines of the original five, while explicitly incorporating risk mitigation and protection of people, assets, and information.

Sort involves removing unnecessary items from the work area. Set in Order arranges tools, materials, and instructions for easy access and flow. Shine emphasizes cleanliness and inspection that reveal equipment health issues. Standardize creates uniform procedures and visual guides to maintain consistency. Sustain embeds the prior practices into daily routines and culture. Safety extends the framework to assess hazards, implement controls, and promote safe work practices. Security addresses protection of equipment, data, and facilities, including access controls and surveillance as appropriate.

Implementation typically starts with management commitment and a baseline assessment, followed by training and short 5S events. Visual controls, checklists, audits, and regular reviews help sustain gains. While 7S can improve efficiency, safety, and asset protection, it requires ongoing leadership support and engagement to avoid becoming a ritual rather than a systemic improvement tool. Critics note that its value depends on genuine, integrated changes rather than cosmetic compliance.