Lean Construction through 5S Implementation: A Review

The construction industry is frequently challenged by inefficiencies such as low productivity, poor material management, excessive waste generation, and unsafe working conditions. To address these persistent issues, the integration of Lean Construction principles has emerged as a practical solution to enhance project performance. Among the Lean tools, the 5S technique comprising Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain plays a foundational role in establishing workplace organization, cleanliness, and discipline. This paper reviews the implementation of the 5S technique on commercial building sites and examines its impact on productivity improvement and waste reduction. By systematically organizing tools, materials, and workspaces, 5S minimizes non-value-adding activities such as searching, waiting, and rework, while fostering safety and efficiency. Evidence from various studies indicates that 5S implementation can lead to productivity gains of 15–25% and waste reduction of up to 30%, alongside enhanced worker morale and site safety. The study also highlights the challenges of sustaining 5S practices, including lack of management commitment and inadequate training. Overall, the paper concludes that adopting Lean Construction through the 5S technique provides a structured pathway toward achieving continuous improvement, improved site performance, and sustainable construction practices.