When it comes to ensuring the safety and security of your products, an effective security seal program is crucial. Security seals play a vital role in safeguarding products during transportation and storage, preventing unauthorised access, and providing evidence of tampering.
Here are some key elements that must be included in a successful security seal program:
1. Procurement: One of the most critical aspects of an effective security seal program is the procurement of approved security seals. It is essential to order security seals only from approved and appointed suppliers. These suppliers should have a proven track record in delivering quality seals and must be authorised by the organisation to supply them.
2. Storage: Security seals must be stored in a secure area with access only to authorised security officers and staff trained to use security seals correctly. The storage area should be equipped with the necessary security measures such as CCTV cameras, alarms, and access control systems to prevent unauthorised access.
3. Accountability: Authorised security officers and staff trained to use security seals correctly must adhere to correct usage and recording into the security seal control system at all times. This includes correct identification of evidence of tampering, correct application and removal of seals, and proper recording of seal details into the control system.
4. Application: All security seals must be applied correctly and pulled up as tight as possible during application. This applies to all types of pull-tight security seals, including cable and plastic seals. The seal details must be verified and recorded correctly into the security seal control system in order for it to be an effective security seal program.
5. Check, Inspect & Record: Before Removal Before removal, the seal details and paperwork must be checked to ensure they match. The seal must then be carefully inspected for signs of tampering, including cut, file, scratch, and grip marks, colour changes, or any irregularities compared to a sample of a known good seal. Any evidence of tampering must be recorded, reported, and investigated before removal.
6. Inspection & Removal: Only authorised security officers and staff trained for inspecting and removing security seals should be in possession of cutting tools used for the removal of security seals. Used security seals must be kept for evidence and further inspection.
7. Use in Conjunction: These guidelines must be used in conjunction with existing site-specific security programs and procedures approved and used by each organisation. This includes incorporating security seal control systems into the organisation’s overall security strategy to ensure maximum effectiveness.
In conclusion, an effective security seal program is essential for maintaining the safety and security of products during transportation and storage. By following these key elements, organisations can ensure that their security seal program is effective and provides the necessary level of protection against tampering and theft.