Why is the Sustain step often considered difficult to implement in 5S?

The Sustain step in the 5S methodology is considered difficult to implement primarily because it requires constant commitment from all levels of the company. This step goes beyond simply organizing or cleaning; it involves creating a culture of continuous improvement and adherence to the standards established in the previous steps of 5S: Sort, Set in order, Shine, and Standardize.

For Sustain to be effective, every employee must consistently follow the procedures and practices that have been put in place. This means that management needs to lead by example and provide ongoing support and training, while all staff must buy into the process and understand its importance to operational efficiency and workplace safety. The challenge arises because maintaining discipline over time can be difficult, especially in dynamic environments where changes might cause deviations from established practices. Without the sustained effort and commitment from everyone involved, the benefits gained from the first four steps can quickly erode, leading to a regression into disorganization.