ISO 17712 is an international standard that sets requirements for the mechanical strength and security of seals used on containers in the shipping and transportation industry. These seals help prevent unauthorized access to containers, ensuring the integrity of goods during transit. When shipping perishable goods or temperature-sensitive items, such as food products or pharmaceuticals, there are specific considerations that need to be taken into account when conducting ISO 17712 testing.
Seal Material Selection:
When dealing with perishable goods or temperature-sensitive items, the choice of seal material becomes crucial. Seals must be able to withstand the specific environmental conditions that the goods will be exposed to during transportation, including temperature fluctuations, humidity, and potential exposure to moisture or liquids. It’s important to select seal materials that are durable and resistant to these conditions to ensure that the seals remain effective and secure.
Temperature Resistance:
Perishable goods often require temperature-controlled shipping to maintain their quality and safety. Seals must be tested to ensure they can withstand the range of temperatures the goods might be subjected to. This could involve exposure to both extreme cold and heat, depending on the transportation route and method. Temperature testing should include freeze-thaw cycles, extended exposure to high and low temperatures, and rapid temperature changes to simulate real-world conditions.
Vibration and Shock Testing:
Transportation of perishable goods can involve various modes of transportation, including trucks, ships, and airplanes. These modes can subject the goods and the seals to significant vibration and shock forces. ISO 17712 testing should include simulations of these forces to ensure that the seals remain intact and functional throughout the journey.
Humidity and Moisture Resistance:
Perishable goods are often packed with moisture-absorbing materials or in temperature-controlled environments to maintain their freshness. However, there’s still a potential for humidity and moisture exposure during transportation. Seals need to be tested for their resistance to moisture, as well as their ability to prevent water infiltration that could compromise their integrity.
Chemical Exposure:
Some perishable goods, such as pharmaceuticals, might require specific environmental conditions or protection from certain chemicals. Seals should be tested for their resistance to various chemicals that they might come into contact with during transportation, such as cleaning agents, sanitizers, or other substances used in logistics and storage.
Time Sensitivity:
Perishable goods often have a limited shelf life and must reach their destination within a specific timeframe. The ISO 17712 testing process should take into consideration the duration of the transportation journey and the seal’s ability to remain effective and secure over that period.
Tampering Prevention:
While the primary purpose of ISO 17712 seals is to prevent unauthorized access, this becomes even more critical with perishable goods. Tampering or unauthorized access could lead to contamination, spoilage, or compromise of the goods’ safety. Seals should be rigorously tested for their ability to resist tampering attempts, such as cutting, picking, or manipulating the seal.
Certification and Compliance:
When shipping perishable goods or temperature-sensitive items across international borders, it’s important to ensure that the seals used comply with ISO 17712 standards and are certified accordingly. Different countries and regions might have specific requirements for security seals, and compliance can help prevent delays or issues at customs.
Conclusion:
ISO 17712 testing for seals used when shipping perishable goods or temperature-sensitive items requires a specialized approach. It involves comprehensive testing that considers factors such as material selection, temperature resistance, vibration, shock, humidity, chemical exposure, time sensitivity, tampering prevention, and compliance with international standards. Ensuring the integrity and security of these goods during transit is paramount to maintaining their quality and safety upon arrival.
