Tamper Evident Security Seals and Their Applications

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Tamper evident security seals are an essential tool for protecting valuable goods and sensitive information. They provide a visible indication of tampering, making it clear if someone has attempted to access or alter the contents.

These seals are commonly used in industries such as logistics, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. In fact, a study found that 70% of companies use tamper evident security seals to prevent counterfeiting and ensure product integrity.

Tamper evident security seals can be applied to a wide range of items, including boxes, containers, and even bags. They come in various shapes, sizes, and materials to suit different needs and applications.

Additional reading: Tamper Evident Void Labels

What is a Tamper Evident Security Seal?

A tamper evident security seal is a device or mechanism that's applied to an object to protect against tampering or unauthorized access.

These seals are used on an object to show if the contents have been opened or altered in any way.

Tamper evident security seals can come in many forms, ranging from security tape to bolt seals.

If this caught your attention, see: Tamper Evident Security Labels

Men Looking at Evidence
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If a sealed object is opened or infringed, the tamper evident seal will demonstrate a clear proof of tampering.

Security seals are also called tamper proof seals, security seals or simply seals.

They serve as a way to protect items, and when the items are transported, the tamper-proof stickers and seal can reveal whether someone has tampered with the locking mechanism or not.

The primary function of a tamper-proof seal tape is content restriction.

For your interest: Hot Glue Wax Seal

Features & Benefits

Tamper evident security seals are a must-have for businesses that want to protect their customers and products. They provide a clear indication that a product hasn't been tampered with, giving customers peace of mind.

These security seals are available in various sizes, with the most common being 6-3/8" x 1" including a 3/8" tab. You can purchase them in bulk, with a package of 400 strips included in the shrink-wrapped package.

One of the best things about these security seals is that they can be easily written on with a ballpoint pen, making it simple to add important information. The writing fields on the seal include Donor Identification, Donor Initials, Date, and Collector's Signature.

Yellow Plastic Seal on the Ground
Credit: pexels.com, Yellow Plastic Seal on the Ground

The seals are pre-cut with a peel-off tab, making them easy to apply to products. You can also customize the print and colors to match your business's branding.

Here are the key features and benefits of tamper evident security seals at a glance:

  • Strip Dimensions: 6-3/8" x 1" Including 3/8" Tab
  • Shrink wrapped package includes 400 strips
  • Seals can be easily written on with ballpoint pens
  • Pre-cut strips with a peel-off tab
  • Writing fields: Donor Identification, Donor Initials, Date and Collector's Signature
  • Custom print and colors available

Seal Applications

Tamper evident security seals are used in various applications, including warehouses, cash boxes, and bank bags. They're also used in cash-in-transit and postal services.

Security seals are extensively used in airline cargo and rail transportation. They're also used in law enforcement, logistics services, and tote boxes.

Here are some examples of tamper evident seal applications:

  • Container seals
  • Cargo seals
  • Truck seals
  • Trailer seals
  • Airline seals
  • Pharmaceutical seals
  • Fire extinguisher seals
  • Utility meter seals
  • Tachograph seals

These applications require excellent pull strength, making them suitable for high-risk areas where theft or tampering is a concern.

Various Applications

Security seals have numerous applications across various industries. They are extensively used in warehouses and cash boxes to prevent theft and tampering.

Their pull strength and durability make them ideal for use in rail transportation, law enforcement, and logistics services. In fact, security seals are used in tote boxes and other containers that require complete protection against theft or attack.

Credit: youtube.com, Inflatable Seal Application Functions- Seal-It Application Video

Security labels are also used in postal services and airline cargo to ensure the safe transportation of goods. They are an effective way to prevent tampering and ensure the integrity of the contents.

Here are some examples of security seal applications:

  • Warehouses
  • Cash boxes
  • Rail transportation
  • Law enforcement
  • Logistics services
  • Tote boxes
  • Postal services
  • Airline cargo

These are just a few examples of the many applications of security seals. Their versatility and effectiveness make them a valuable tool in preventing theft and ensuring the integrity of goods and documents.

Used in Medicine

In medical situations, security seals are used to guarantee that emergency supplies are undamaged and ready to use.

Security seals are a standard requirement for all emergency gear, including airline duty-free trolleys, parachutes, and rescue assistance packages.

Drugs must be kept in a strictly supervised place, and blood samples and samples for important tests must be properly sealed to reduce the possibility of contamination.

These seals are easily destructible labels, saving time in emergencies.

Many medical wastes need to be transported carefully in a sealed container or bag.

Some security seals are created to satisfy specific requirements for various medical applications, as determined by initiatives like CTPAT and other international standards.

Cable

Crime scene investigation with shoe as evidence marked with number one and forensic glove.
Credit: pexels.com, Crime scene investigation with shoe as evidence marked with number one and forensic glove.

Cable seals are a popular choice for their versatility and high breaking strength. They consist of a metal cable and a locking device.

These seals are often certified as class 'S' or class 'H' under the ISO 17712:2013 standard.

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Cash Deposit Bags

Cash Deposit Bags are a type of seal bag designed for transferring small quantities of cash, notes, and checks. They typically feature a compact design that can hold both bank notes and coins.

These bags are specifically created for the movement of money, making them a convenient option for carrying cash safely. They often have a self-adhesive tamper-evident seal closure or a tamper-evident lock to prevent unauthorized access.

The durable design of cash deposit bags allows users to keep and move money without worrying about damage or loss.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Custom Tamper Seal Stickers

Seal Types and Materials

Tamper evident security seals come in various types, including security tape and plastic seals. These types are widely used for their effectiveness.

Security tape is a popular option, often used interchangeably with security seals. It's a type of tamper-evident tape that leaves a clear indication when someone tries to remove it.

Plastic seals are another common type, available in different designs and materials.

Types of Seals

Crop unrecognizable woman sealing carton parcel with tape
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Tamper-evident seals are available in various types, including security tape, plastic seals, cable seals, and bolt seals. These types of seals are designed to provide different levels of security and protection.

Security tape is a popular type of tamper-evident seal, and it's also known as tamper-evident tape. This type of tape features one or more signs or entrance barriers that can reasonably be expected to provide tangible proof that tampering has occurred.

Bolt seals are another type of tamper-evident seal, and they consist of a pin and barrel. These seals are often class 'H' ISO 17712: 2013 certified and used for international container transport.

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) classifies tamper-evident seals into three classes: Class 'I' indicative seals, Class 'S' security seals, and Class 'H' high security seals. Here's a breakdown of each class:

Destructible PVC tamper-evident tape is another type of seal that features a destructible design. This type of tape cannot be removed without ripping it into tiny fragments, making it clear if anyone has attempted to remove the label.

Bolt

Photo Evidence in an Investigation
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Bolt seals are a type of high-security seal that offers a strong layer of security to transports.

They consist of a pin and barrel, and are often class 'H' ISO 17712: 2013 certified, making them suitable for international container transport.

Bolt seals are also available with unique serial numbers, which can be matched on the bolt and barrel for added security.

E5 Bolt Security Seals are a specific type of bolt seal that meets CTPAT and ISO 17712:2013 standards for high-security seals.

These seals can be customized with optional imprinted text, and are perfect for trailer door locks, cross-border shipments, and containers.

To remove these heavy-duty seals, usage of bolt cutters is necessary.

Bolt seals can be customized for additional security levels in color, barcoding, and print.

If this caught your attention, see: Custom Envelope Seal Stickers

Wire

Wire seals are strong seals that cover small openings in valves, lockable doors, and other objects. They're perfect for securing small areas where tampering is a concern.

Some wire seals can be used in high-security situations, such as international freight shipping, because they meet ISO ratings for high security. This level of security is crucial for protecting valuable goods.

Close-up of a Seal on a Rocky Surface
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of a Seal on a Rocky Surface

The wire's length depends on the size of the task, and the extra cable can be cut to fit. This flexibility makes wire seals a great option for a variety of applications.

Wire seals come in various cable sizes, which commonly range from 1.5mm to 5mm. This range of sizes ensures that wire seals can be used for tasks of all sizes.

Metal Strap

Metal strap seals are more resilient than plastic strap seals due to their material.

They can be a solid option for trucking cargo and can even have personalized numbering, printing, and barcoding added to boost their security level.

Metal strap seals are used in the airline industry to secure items or locations that passengers shouldn’t access, such as specific spaces or cupboards.

This helps to ensure everyone's safety on the plane.

Seal Products and Packaging

Seal products and packaging play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of tamper-evident security seals.

Crime Scene Investigator Holding a Transparent Bag with Evidence
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Tamper-evident security seals are designed to be used with specific packaging materials, such as plastic bags, boxes, and containers.

These packaging materials are chosen for their durability and resistance to tampering.

The choice of packaging material depends on the specific application and the level of security required.

In some cases, custom-made packaging solutions are used to provide an additional layer of security.

Custom-made packaging solutions can be designed to meet specific security requirements and regulations.

Tamper-evident security seals can also be used with pre-made packaging products, such as tamper-evident bags and boxes.

Pre-made packaging products can be easily integrated into existing supply chains and logistics systems.

Seal Installation and Suitability

Seal installation is a straightforward process that requires minimal equipment. You can install tamper-evident security seals on a variety of surfaces, including fabric, paper, and plastic.

To ensure the seal remains effective, it's essential to choose the right type of seal for your specific application. Consider factors such as the weight and size of the items being sealed, as well as the level of security required.

Proper installation is key to maintaining the integrity of the seal. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific seal you're using.

Determining Suitability

Forensics Investigators Discussing Evidence at a Crime Scene
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The purpose of the tamper evident seal determines which type of seal is most suited. If you want to use a seal solely to indicate unwanted infringement, a plastic seal or security tape is probably your best choice.

If you want to add a layer of security to a sealed object, a security seal with a high breaking strength is recommended.

Laws and regulations can also impact the choice of suitable tamper evident seals. International freight transports often demands the use of ISO 17712 certified high security seals.

To ensure compliance with regulations, it's essential to check whether your security seals supplier is CTPAT compliant.

Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

  • Plastic seals or security tape are suitable for indicating unwanted infringement.
  • Security seals with high breaking strength are recommended for added security.
  • ISO 17712 certified high security seals are required for international freight transports.
  • CTPAT compliant suppliers are essential for meeting regulatory requirements.

Tips for Effective Making

To make your security seals as effective as possible, it's essential to use a variety of best practices. Having multiple levels of security is crucial in case a security measure is hacked, so use a variety of security seals, serial number & perforation security tapes, and tamper-proof cash bag combinations.

Photos of Evidence on the White Table
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Visible and psychological deterrents can prevent potential intruders before they even try. Labels with warnings, illustrations, serial decals to cover the seal, and unique coloring identification can all serve as deterrents.

Rotating the size, model, or kind of seal you use each time can prevent someone from figuring out the security measures and potentially damaging the items. This can be achieved by using custom tamper-proof stickers, customized hologram total transfer tamper evident label rotating colors, or using alphanumeric characters at random to obfuscate patterns.

Seal inspection and process training should be provided to those who regularly handle freight and inventory. This can help determine when seals require maintenance, repair, or replacement with a different kind.

Here are some key steps to ensure the effectiveness of your security seals:

  • Rotate the size, model, or kind of seal you use each time.
  • Use custom tamper-proof stickers, customized hologram total transfer tamper evident label rotating colors, or using alphanumeric characters at random.
  • Provide seal inspection and process training to those who handle freight and inventory.
  • Keep seals in a safe place with a serial or barcode number that can be tracked by a complete log.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your security seals are as effective as possible in preventing tampering and theft.

Seal Examples and Variations

Close-up of police barrier tape on stone pavement in Budapest, Hungary. Security concept.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of police barrier tape on stone pavement in Budapest, Hungary. Security concept.

Metal band cargo seals come in various designs, including globe and flat shapes, and often feature a unique serial number. You can also add custom imprinted text to make them more identifiable.

Some tamper evident pallet labels use a peel and stick mechanism to secure the strapping crimps. These labels have unique serial numbers and will self-VOID if removed, indicating tampering.

The ToppClip system is a more advanced pallet seal that eliminates the need for generic metal crimps. It's designed to be extremely difficult to tamper with or replace without leaving signs of tampering.

E10 Multi-Use Vehicle

The E10 Multi-Use Truck & Trailer Seals are a top-notch option for securing your cargo. They offer enhanced protection using high-security ABLOY locking mechanisms.

These seals are designed to withstand serious physical attacks, making them a reliable choice for trucking and transportation. They're also easy to install, which is a bonus.

One of the standout features of the E10 Multi-Use Truck & Trailer Seals is their ABLOY locking mechanisms. This technology provides a high level of security, giving you peace of mind when transporting valuable cargo.

Seal
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Here are some key features of the E10 Multi-Use Truck & Trailer Seals:

Overall, the E10 Multi-Use Truck & Trailer Seals are a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and secure way to transport their cargo.

E2 Plastic Bands

E2 Plastic Bands are a type of seal that feature a fixed length. They're often used for cargo sealing.

One of the distinctive features of E2 Plastic Bands is their unique serial number, which helps track and identify them. This can be especially useful for inventory management.

Optional custom imprinted text and logo make E2 Plastic Bands a great choice for businesses looking to add a personal touch to their seals.

E3 Adjustable Cargo

The E3 Adjustable Cargo seal is a great option for those who need a reliable and customizable seal. It features an adjustable plastic seal with a dual locking mechanism.

This means you can adjust the seal to fit different cargo sizes, and the dual locking mechanism provides extra security. I've seen these types of seals used in warehouses and shipping facilities, and they're a great choice for anyone who needs to seal cargo containers securely.

Here are some key features of the E3 Adjustable Cargo seal:

  • Adjustable plastic seal with dual locking mechanism
  • Unique serial number
  • Optional custom imprinted text

E4 Cable

Credit: youtube.com, Göker Plast | High Security Seals - GP434 Cable Seal on Truck

The E4 Cable is a high-security seal that's compliant with CTPAT and ISO 17712:2013 standards. This seal is a great option for those who need a reliable and secure way to seal their cables.

One of the standout features of the E4 Cable is its adjustable length, which makes it easy to customize to fit different cable sizes. This flexibility is a game-changer for many industries.

The E4 Cable also comes with a unique serial number, which can be useful for tracking and inventory purposes. This feature can help prevent theft and ensure that your cables are properly accounted for.

If you want to add an extra layer of customization, you can even opt for custom-imprinted text on the E4 Cable. This can be a great way to brand your cables or add a personal touch.

Here are the key features of the E4 Cable:

  • CTPAT and ISO 17712:2013 Compliant
  • Adjustable length
  • Unique serial number
  • Optional custom imprinted text

E6 Plastic Padlock

The E6 Plastic Padlock Seal is a reliable option for securing various items. It features unique serial numbers, which can be useful for tracking and inventory management.

Close-Up Shot of a Person Pointing at Evidence Board
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One of the standout features of the E6 Plastic Padlock Seal is its writable area, allowing users to record dates or other important information. This can be especially useful for tracking the movement of goods or equipment.

Optional custom imprinted text and logo are also available on the E6 Plastic Padlock Seal. This can be a great way to add a personal touch or to include company branding.

Here are some key features of the E6 Plastic Padlock Seal:

Overall, the E6 Plastic Padlock Seal is a versatile and practical option for securing a variety of items.

Seal Information and Resources

Seal effectiveness is determined by the level of tampering required to remove or break the seal, which can be as high as 10 pounds or more.

Seals are made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and foil, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.

A common type of seal is the wire seal, which is made from a thin wire that is wrapped around the object to be secured.

Crop faceless male sealing packed carton box with tape against white wall in daylight during relocation
Credit: pexels.com, Crop faceless male sealing packed carton box with tape against white wall in daylight during relocation

Seals can be applied in a variety of ways, including by hand or using specialized equipment.

Tamper evident seals are designed to leave behind evidence of tampering, such as a broken or torn seal.

The use of tamper evident seals can provide an additional layer of security and accountability in various industries, including pharmaceuticals and logistics.

Seals can be customized with logos, colors, and other markings to meet specific branding and identification requirements.

In some cases, seals may be required by regulations or standards, such as in the pharmaceutical industry where seals are used to ensure the integrity of products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused tamper proof seals?

Tamper-proof seals were introduced due to the 1982 Chicago Tylenol murders, which led to increased FDA regulations on product safety. This resulted in the widespread adoption of tamper-evident packaging methods, such as induction sealing.

Gretchen Gerhold

Writer

Gretchen Gerhold has established herself as a prolific writer, covering a diverse range of topics including logistics, trade, and economic development. Her articles on container terminals and the logistics sector in India provide deep insights into the complexities of modern supply chain management. Focusing on the state of Kerala, her work on the economy and transport in Kochi highlights the region's significant contributions to India's economic landscape.

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