In 5S, what is Sustain responsible for?

• A. Keep 5S activities from unraveling.
• B. Sustain the 5S training program.
• C. Shine the workplace to maintain cleanliness.
• D. Set in order and organize tools.

Answer: (A)

Sustain is about making improvements endure. It focuses on embedding the gains from the first four S steps into daily work so they don’t unravel, through ongoing routines, standard work, regular audits, and ongoing management support. The idea is to turn 5S into a lasting part of how the team operates, not just a one-time event.

That’s why keeping 5S activities from unraveling is the best fit. It captures the aim of sustaining the program—preventing backsliding and ensuring the discipline sticks. The other descriptions align with other aspects of 5S: Shine is about maintaining cleanliness, Set in order is about organizing tools and space, and sustaining the training program is helpful but not the sole focus of the Sustain stage.