Everything you need to know about tamper evident security seals
Security seals serve a critical function. This guide will take you through their purpose, give you a general idea of how to use them, explain how they’re classified and even show you some of the different types available. You’ll find it easy to determine what types of tamper evident security seals you should be looking at for your application. We’ll cover:
What are tamper evident security seals?
The main reason for using tamper evident seals is to ensure the integrity of the package that the seal is affixed to. Security seals provide visual evidence of any attempt to open or manipulate that package. Ultimately, a tamper evident seal discourages unauthorised opening or tampering.
Even a premier tamper evident seal is not a lock. Instead, the seal is typically designed to be used only once before being destroyed. If tamper evident security seals indicate that someone has attempted to open any packages, you can start an investigation to catch the violator, whether you discover the attempt or the recipients do.
Tamper evident seals come in different types. You can even get a customised tamper evident seal printed with your logo. A tamper evident feature varies according to the type. Some have tampering indicators such as perforations or frangible materials that break or tear when the package is opened. Others have special adhesives that leave a residue or other visible evidence if the seal is removed. Still others use high-strength metals and require special tools to remove.
How to use tamper evident security seals
It’s a straightforward process that generally involves applying the seal to a package or product in a specific way to ensure its effectiveness. How a security seal is used depends on the type, but here are the general steps for using one.
1. Apply the seal
To apply the seal, first make sure the surface you’ll be sealing is clean and dry. Then, position the seal over the opening or access point that you want to secure. Press down firmly on the seal to activate any adhesive or locking mechanisms that are part of the seal. Some seals may require you to peel off a protective backing or other layer before applying.
2. Check the seal
Once the seal is applied, check to make sure it is securely in place and that any locking mechanisms have engaged. Verify that the seal is intact and that there are no signs of tampering or damage. Some seals may have additional features, such as unique identifiers or serial numbers, that can be used to verify authenticity.
3. Monitor the seal
Keep an eye on the seal over time to ensure that it remains intact and that there is no visible evidence of tampering or damage. If you notice any issues or concerns, take appropriate action to investigate and address them.
It's important to follow the instructions provided with the specific security seal you’re using.
How to select the right seal
Consider your requirements and the features necessary to what you want to achieve. This will include multiple factors, such as:
Type of seal
Weigh the different types of security seals against each other, including labels, tapes, bags, and other forms, such as tamper evident seal stickers. This will involve consideration of your industry. A tamper evident seal for food isn’t necessarily the best choice for tamper evident seals on foley catheters.
Level of security
You have several choices here, as you’ll see below. If you need a high level of security, consider a bolt seal. Another way to go is with a seal that allows for customised information, such as a serialisation tamper evident seal. Serialisation is a critical part of supply chain security initiatives. A unique serial number is assigned to each package. This number is then recorded in a database, allowing manufacturers and consumers to track the package throughout its lifecycle.
Industry requirements
Does your industry have specific requirements for tamper evident security seals? For example, international freight transports often demand ISO 17712 certified high-security seals. ISO 21976 requires tamper-resistant packaging to ensure the integrity of pharmaceutical packaging. A tamper evident seal bottle would qualify here.
Material
Tamper-evident seals can be made from plastic, metal or paper. Consider which material is best suited for your application, based on factors such as durability, environmental conditions, and the type of package you’re sealing.
Application method
Application methods vary according to the type of tamper-evident seals you’re using, from self-adhesive to bolting. Consider which method best suits your needs – do you want ease of applying the seal? Do you want it easily removed? Or is the application method not so much a priority as the security that the seal provides? These are points that only you can decide by balancing them against other considerations.
Cost
Tamper evident security seals can vary in cost, depending on the type, material, and features. Consider your budget and how much you’re willing to spend on security measures, while also ensuring that the seals you choose are effective for your needs.
Overall, selecting the right seal requires careful consideration of your specific needs and the level of security you require. By choosing the right seal, you can help to ensure the safety, integrity, and authenticity of your packages.
Security seal types
The International Organization for Standardization ISO 17712 classifies three types of security seals: Indicative, Security, and High Security seals.
Indicative seals
Class “I” indicative seals have a low breaking strength and are easily broken by hand or by using a simple snipping tool or shear. Most indicative seals are one-piece, which is called an OPS tamper evident seal.
This plastic seal is specially designed for applications that require a very slim seal. The padlock seal has an all-plastic design with an acetal jaw-locking mechanism. Easy and convenient, single-handed application. Plastic security seals available in blue, green, orange, red, white and yellow.
Use for: Utility box meters, security documents and securing in-flight trolleys, ATM cassettes and other cart applications. Also suitable for banking and cash-in transit
Tamper evident label made of polyester is easily applied as a tamper-evident seal tape. The matte surface is suitable for writing and provided in die-cut pieces. Option available that doesn’t leave behind residue. Another option: a tamper evident label that provides visual evidence by leaving a 'VOID' message to alert you to tampering. Adhesive security seals are easy to remove from the release paper.
Use for: Confidential documents and containers, gaming security, restricted medical packaging, computer and information technology products
Pull tight seals – smooth strap
Easy to apply and tighten to a desired diameter. Several seal types are available, including those with longer tags and with a tear-off tab for quick and easy removal. These seals have a polypropylene strap with a stainless-steel locking jaw and are also available with a barbed strap.
JawLock is a versatile seal designed for small strap diameters, making it ideal for securing items with a small aperture. The thin round and smooth strap has side tear-off functionality and includes a full-size tag with ample surface for codings. SegurLock and SmoothLock are user-friendly options featuring smooth straps with gripping prongs on the stem. TeraLock provides high-break strength with a stainless steel locking jaw and heat weld cap that helps enhance security.
Use for:
| Mini JawLock | Maxi JawLock | SegurLock | SmoothLock | TeraLock | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Courier and postal bags | x | x | x | x | x |
| Cash bags and containers | x | x | |||
| Vehicle door latches | x | x | |||
| Tote bags | x | x | |||
| Roll cage pallets | x | x | x | ||
| Tankers – petroleum, bulk foods and liquids | x | x | |||
| Forensic evidence bags | x | ||||
| Plastic distribution boxes | x | ||||
| Airline food and duty-free trolleys | x | ||||
| Security documents and containers | x | ||||
| Gaming security | x | ||||
| Large bags for retail, pharma and food industries | x |
Security seals
Class “S” security seals are made of material that provides limited resistance to intrusion and requires lightweight tools for removal.
A highly secure alternative to standard locks, due to an enhanced locking mechanism. The seal is easy to use on pull-tight applications. The long tag is ideal for printing tamper-evident-seal QR codes or serial numbers and barcodes of up to 13-digits. The seal also has very high tensile strength and can be removed with the appropriate cable cutters. Polypropylene (PP) body with chrome plated steel hasp.
Use for: Vehicle doors, bulk tankers, duty-free carts and roll cages
An ideal choice for more demanding applications. These seals offer a low-cost and secure single-use alternative to conventional padlocks. Options include a smart tamper evident seal that features an RFID tag for electronic scanning and logging.
The seal can only be removed with wire cutters (sold separately). They are made from tamper evident transparent material. SAN resin and polypropylene (PP) body with chrome plate steel hasp.
Use for: plastic distribution boxes, vehicle doors and warehouse bonded store doors
High security seals
“H” class seals are constructed and manufactured of material such as metal or metal cable with the intent to delay intrusion. High security seals can generally be removed with substantial bolt cutters or cable cutters.
Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) is part of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) cargo enforcement strategy. This program is used by the CBP with the trade community to strengthen international supply chains and improve U.S. border security. CTPAT is solely a voluntary partnership program that recognizes that CBP can provide the highest level of cargo security only through close cooperation with stakeholders in the international supply chain. This includes importers, carriers, consolidators, licensed customs brokers, and manufacturers. CTPAT requires ISO 17712 “H” class seals.
Used worldwide to secure goods during import and export. These seals can secure goods for long periods of time. The non-preformed cable unravels when cut to prevent tampering. The steel cable can only be removed using a tool. Non-preformed galvanised steel aircraft cable with aluminium body. Compliant with ISO17712:2023 and CTPAT with cable diameters of 3.5mm and above. Available in blue, red, bronze and black.
Use for: Shipping containers, cargo containers, rail freights, plastic distribution boxes, petrochemical valves, trucks and trailers
The insert and pin head keep the seal engaged on the application’s latch when the plastic cover is intentionally or accidentally removed. It has limited 180-degree rotation when engaged. These tamper evident seals prevent high-speed spinning attacks on the barrel. The bolt seal also features a label attachment.
Range includes different options, including coated and uncoated pins. The coated pin has an additional layer of paint that gives it an extra layer of protection from chips and damage. The bolt seal barrel is made from high-quality ABS material, giving it good impact resistance while also indicating evidence of tampering.
ISO 17712:2013 (coated pin option only) and CTPAT compliant.
Use for: Shipping containers, cargo containers, trucks, trailer vehicle doors and rail freights
Do seals really help?
Tamper-proof seals do not exist – remember, these are not locks. Tamper evident seals deter tampering, which makes them incredibly valuable for communicating the integrity and/or safety of your package. A tamper-evident seal on a container means that it is being monitored. This in turn gives customers confidence in what they’re buying. Without that sense of security that a seal inspection provides, customers would look elsewhere for their needs.
Sustainable Tamper Evident Security Seal
If you’re factoring sustainability into your choice, consider our all-metal cable seals. Metals should never be considered waste at the end of a product’s life. They’re a valuable resource – metals can be 100% recycled without degradation. Consider, too, our greener alternative in plastic. Essentra Components are also producing a range of security seals made from 45% recycled plastic.
Download free CADs and try before you buy
Free CADs are available for most solutions, which you can download. Free samples are also typically available to make sure you’ve chosen exactly what you need.
If you’re not quite sure which premium tamper evident seal will work best for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you.
Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast despatch. Request your free samples or download free CADs now.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uk speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 0345 528 0474.