© ISO 2013 Freight containers — Mechanical seals Conteneurs pour le transport de marchandises — Scellés mécaniques INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 17712 Second edition 2013 05 15 Reference number ISO 17712[.]
General terms
A seal is a mechanical device with a unique identifier, typically intended for single use It is externally attached to container doors to indicate any tampering or intrusion, ensuring the security of the closed doors.
The design and construction of a seal determine its effectiveness in resisting both intentional and unintentional attempts to open it or access the freight container through its doors.
Note 2 to entry: Seals need to be designed and constructed so that tamper attempts create and leave evidence of that tampering.
Note 3 to entry: All grades and types of seals require inspection to indicate whether tampering has occurred or entry has been attempted.
3.1.2 high-security seal seal that is constructed and manufactured of material such as metal or metal cable with the intent to delay intrusion
Note 1 to entry: High-security seals can generally be removed with substantial bolt cutters or cable cutters.
3.1.3 security seal seal that is constructed and manufactured of material that provides limited resistance to intrusion and requires lightweight tools for removal
3.1.4 indicative seal seal that is constructed and manufactured of material that can easily be broken by hand or by using a simple snipping tool or shear
3.1.5 manufacturer company or entity that either owns the seal-producing factory or contracts to buy made-to-order seals for resale from a third-party factory
3.1.6 bar code automatic identification technology that encodes information into an array of parallel bars and spaces of varying widths
3.1.7 defeated seal seal which has been opened or removed and replaced or reconstructed without detectable evidence of tampering
3.1.8 tampering attempt to open or remove and then replace or reconstruct a seal without leaving detectable evidence of the attempt
3.1.9 tamper evidence tell-tale indication that an attempt has been made to open or remove and then replace or reconstruct without detectable evidence of that attempt
Tamper evidence can be identified through visible changes in the material, such as alterations in color, surface texture, cracks, indentations, or abrasions These indicators are easily recognizable during standard examinations conducted under normal conditions, without the need for technical aids like magnifying glasses or microscopes.
3.1.10 indicativeness ability to reveal evidence after attempts have been made to tamper with the seal
Terms describing different types of mechanical seals
3.2.1 wire seal length of wire secured in a loop by some type of seizing device
EXAMPLE Wire seals include: crimp wire, fold wire, and cup wire seals.
Note 1 to entry: The seizing device can be plastic or metal and its deformation is one indication of tampering.
3.2.2 padlock seal locking body with a bail attached
EXAMPLE Padlock seals include: wire shackle padlock (metal or plastic body), plastic padlock, and keyless padlock seals.
Note 1 to entry: The padlock itself is not an integral part of the freight container.
3.2.3 strap seal metal or plastic strap secured in a loop by inserting one end into or through a protected (covered) locking mechanism on the other end
Note 1 to entry: The seizing device can be plastic or metal and its deformation is one indication of tampering.
3.2.4 cable seal cable and a locking mechanism
A one-piece seal features a locking mechanism that is permanently affixed to one end of the cable, while a two-piece cable seal includes a separate locking mechanism that can be easily slipped onto the cable or a prefabricated cable end.
3.2.5 bolt seal metal rod, threaded or unthreaded, flexible or rigid, with a formed head, secured with a separate locking mechanism
3.2.6 cinch seal pull-up seal indicative seal consisting of a thin strip of material, serrated or non-serrated, with a locking mechanism attached to one end
Cinch or pull-up type seals, typically crafted from synthetic materials like nylon or plastic, feature a free end that is threaded through a hole in the locking mechanism and tightened to the desired level Unlike basic electrical ties, these seals offer multiple locking positions, enhancing their versatility and functionality.
3.2.7 twist seal steel rod or heavy-gauge wire of various diameters, which is inserted through the locking fixture and twisted around itself by use of a special tool
3.2.8 scored seal metal strip which is scored perpendicular to the length of the strip
To remove the seal, the strip must be passed through the locking fixture and bent at the score mark, which ultimately leads to the breakage of the seal.
3.2.9 label seal frangible seal consisting of a paper or plastic backing with adhesive
Note 1 to entry: The combination of backing and adhesive is chosen to cause the seal to tear when removal is attempted.
3.2.10 barrier seal designed to provide a significant barrier to container entry
General and environmental
When selecting a seal for specific needs, it is crucial to consider various factors, particularly the user's performance requirements The initial step involves determining the appropriate seal classification—whether indicative, security, or high security—before choosing a specific type, make, and model.
When selecting a seal, it is essential to first assess the condition of the item being sealed, as certain items, like open rack containers, may not be appropriate for sealing A seal is just one component of a broader security system, and its effectiveness is directly linked to the overall integrity of that system.
For situations where only an indication of entry is needed, a low-strength indicative seal is appropriate However, when a physical barrier is essential, it is advisable to utilize either a security or high-security seal.
Seals must be easy to fit and verify for proper engagement of their locking mechanisms The correct handling and fitting of seals is as crucial, if not more so, than selecting the appropriate seal While a poorly chosen seal that is fitted correctly may offer some security, a well-chosen seal that is improperly fitted will fail to provide any security.
Security and high-security seals must be robust and dependable to avoid accidental breakage and premature deterioration caused by factors such as weather, chemical exposure, vibration, and shock during regular use.
To ensure the integrity of bolt seals and prevent their removal or loss through a worn container hasp, the minimum diameter for the metal components of a bolt seal must be 18 mm This requirement, known as the "Bolt Seal Diameter Qualification," is a pass/fail standard Only ISO 17712-compliant bolt seals that meet this criterion will be considered acceptable.
Participants from the international liner shipping industry in the Working Group for this International Standard reported that field personnel frequently encountered persistent issues.
The Working Group members proposed that ISO 17712 should mandate a minimum diameter of 18 mm for the metal components of bolt seals, emphasizing the need for enhanced security Additionally, they noted that 17 mm seals could be easily removed intact by pulling the pin head or locking body through worn container hasps.
4.1.4 All classes of seals shall be capable of being affixed easily and quickly.
Container seals endure extreme conditions in marine, rail, and road transportation, facing challenges such as sand, dust, salt spray, grease, snow, ice, and grime They are also subjected to physical shock and vibration during handling and transport ISO 18185-3 outlines the environmental characteristics relevant to both mechanical and electronic seals, offering valuable guidelines for their construction It emphasizes that mechanical seals must be designed to meet their intended purposes effectively.
4.1.6 Indicative, security, and high-security seals shall be fit for use in the environmental conditions to which maritime containers may be exposed.
Marking
Seals must feature unique, legible marks, such as a logotype, along with distinct numbers for identification These markings are to be considered permanent Each seal should be uniquely numbered and clearly identified, ensuring that the manufacturer's name or logo is visible on every seal.
Seals that meet the specified criteria must be clearly marked or stamped to indicate their classification as indicative (“I”), security (“S”), or high-security (“H”) Any changes to these markings must result in noticeable and irreversible damage to the seal, whether physical, chemical, thermal, or through destruction.
Manufacturers or distributors must ensure that classification marks are only affixed when specific conditions are met Firstly, the seal must adhere to the physical parameters outlined in the relevant International Standard, verified by an accredited testing facility Secondly, the manufacturing firm must comply with security-related practices as specified in Annex A, certified by an accredited process review organization Additionally, to affix the “H” mark, the seal must incorporate tamper-evident features that provide clear evidence of tampering, as documented in a compliance certification letter and an audit report from an accredited process review organization.
4.2.4 In the case of reusable devices, the seal number should be carried on the portion designed to be cut off so as to preclude its reuse.
4.2.5 Seals shall be marked and constructed in such a manner that manufacturers shall be able to identify their own products.
Manufacturers have the option to include a machine-readable bar code on their seals, which will display unique identification numbers as outlined in section 4.2.1 If bar codes are utilized, they must adhere to customer specifications; if no specific requirements are provided by the customer, manufacturers should follow the ISO/IEC 15417 standard, which pertains to the Code 128 bar code symbology.
Identification marks
Regulatory authorities and private customers may require additional identifiers beyond the International Standard For instance, seals for freight containers under customs laws must be approved and marked by the relevant customs authority If customs purchases the seal, it must display unique markings and an identification number Additionally, seals used by private industry, such as shippers or manufacturers, should be clearly marked, uniquely numbered, and may include a company name or logo.
Evidence of tampering
Seals must be designed to provide clear evidence of tampering attempts, ensuring that any removal or alteration is visibly detectable Specifically, seals should be constructed to prevent unauthorized removal without breaking and to avoid undetectable re-application, particularly for single-use seals High-security “H” seals must demonstrate their tamper resistance through certification and audit reports from accredited organizations, as outlined in Clause 6 and Normative Annex A This documentation should be readily available to authorized governmental agencies and legitimate private seal users upon request.
Seals made with a plastic coating over metal parts must feature adequately thick metal components to prevent the removal of the plastic coating This design ensures that any attempt to open and re-close the seal will leave visible signs of tampering.
4.4.3 Different seal types evidence tampering in different ways It is recommended that users receive training in seal inspection and detection of tampering.
NOTE 1 A useful field and training guide for inspecting seals and detecting tampering is ASTM F1158 “Standard guide for inspection and evaluation of tampering of security seals.”
NOTE 2 Table 5 provides useful examples of tampering evidence.
General
The classification of a seal as indicative, security, or high security requires a total of 25 samples, evaluated through four physical test procedures: tensile, shear, bending, and impact Each of the five tests involves assessing five samples, with the impact procedure conducted twice at varying temperatures.
The classification of a seal being evaluated is determined by the lowest classification of any sample across all tests To attain a specific classification, every sample must fulfill the criteria for that classification in all five tests.
The terms indicative, security, and high security describe the barrier capabilities of seals, ranging from minimal to meaningful barrier strength Indicative seals, which can be easily broken by hand, are exempt from the strength tests outlined in Clause 5 It is important to note that these classification names do not indicate varying levels of protection against tampering.
Testing must occur biennially, as outlined in A.3.3 a), unless the competent authority mandates more frequent assessments or there are significant changes in the design or material specifications of the seal.
Seals shall be tested as sold Test samples shall be selected at random from inventory available for sale.
The general type of seal and its configuration shall be used to determine the appropriate attachment to the test fixture.
Manufacturers must submit their products to an accredited independent testing laboratory to verify compliance with Clause 5 The testing laboratory should be accredited in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025, specifically covering the relevant International Standard.
Tensile test
A pull test is essential for assessing the strength of a seal's locking mechanism This test involves a fixture that applies a consistent load to the seal, mimicking the reverse motion used during the locking process The load is gradually increased until the seal either opens forcefully or breaks It is crucial that the pulling speed remains within the range of (50.8 ± 25.4) mm/min for all seals.
The seal shall be classified according to the criteria in Table 1 based on the tensile force recorded at the time of seal failure.
Figures 1 to 5 illustrate the apparatuses for conducting tensile tests; Figures 1 to 4 are required while Figure 5 is suggested.
All tests should be carried out at a temperature of (18 ± 3) °C.
1 shackle fixture: steel, case hardening depth 0,7 mm
2 seal support bolt and nut: steel, Class 10.9, see Notes 2, 3, and 4
The same seal support fixture is utilized for both the tensile and impact tests, as illustrated in Figure 11 This fixture, along with the bolt seal support fixture depicted in Figure 2, is integral to the complete testing apparatus.
NOTE 2 Seal support bolt diameter 6,35 mm (0,25 inches) for seals with smallest cross-sectional dimension less than or equal to 3,18 mm (0,125 inches).
NOTE 3 Seal support bolt diameter 12,7 mm (0,5 inches) for seals with smallest cross-sectional area greater than 3,18 mm (0,125 inches).
Figure 1 — Tensile test apparatus — Wire seal, strap seal, cable seal, cinch seal
1 bolt seal support: steel, case hardening depth 0,7 mm
2 shackle fixture: steel, case hardening depth 0,7 mm
4 2 × bolt seal support washer: steel, case hardening depth 0,7 mm
F applied tensile force a The bolt seal support washer (4) thickness may be increased to allow seal clearance but shall not be less than
5 mm. b Cross-section dimension c 5 % to 10 % larger than the largest cross-section of the bolt seal shaft
All fasteners must be Class 12.9 socket cap-type screws with the required thread pitch For English substitute fasteners, they should be Grade 8 and have a diameter that is equal to or greater than the specified fastener.
NOTE 2 The same bolt seal support fixture is used for the tensile test and the impact test The complete apparatus is shown in Figure 11.
Figure 2 — Tensile test apparatus — Bolt seals
F applied tensile force a Cross-sectional diameter
NOTE 1 Seal support bolt diameter 6,35 mm (0,25 inches) for seals with smallest cross-sectional dimension less than or equal to 3,18 mm (0,125 inches).
NOTE 2 Seal support bolt diameter 12,7 mm (0,5 inches) for seals with smallest cross-sectional dimension greater than 3,18 mm (0,125 inches).
Figure 3 — Tensile test apparatus — Twist seal
F applied tensile force a Cross-sectional diameter
NOTE 1 Seal support bolt diameter 6,35 mm (0,25 inches) for seals with smallest cross-sectional dimension less than or equal to 3,18 mm (0,125 inches).
NOTE 2 Seal support bolt diameter 12,7 mm (0,5 inches) for seals with smallest cross-sectional dimension greater than 3,18 mm (0,125 inches).
Figure 4 — Tensile test apparatus — Padlock seal
Figure 5 — Suggested tensile test apparatuses — Other seals
Table 1 — Tensile test seal classification requirements
Load to failure kN a Seal classification
Shear test
A shear test is essential to evaluate a seal's resistance to cutting by shearing blades, similar to those used in bolt cutters It is crucial that the cutting blades in the test fixture are properly aligned to ensure that seals are cut rather than just deformed, which can happen with thin, flexible seals and misaligned blades The compressive load should be applied until the seal is completely severed, but the maximum load must adhere to the limitations specified in Note 2.
Travel rate for shear test: 12,5 mm ± 6,35 mm/min.
5.3.2 The seal shall be classified according to the criteria in Table 2 based on the compressive load recorded at the time of seal failure and in accordance with Note 3.
Figures 6 and 7 present different apparatuses necessary for performing tensile tests The shear test bypass apparatus shown in Figure 7 is specifically designed for testing strap, wire, and small diameter cable seals, while the apparatus depicted in Figure 6 is intended for use with all other types of seals.
When performing the shear test, apply shear force at the weakest section of the seal.
Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stress is within the elastic limit of the fixture material. Tests shall be carried out at a temperature of 18 °C ± 3 °C.
It is crucial to avoid exceeding a shear force of 8,900 N (2,001 lbf) during testing If the specimen remains intact at this force, the test should be stopped, and the equipment unloaded, with a recorded shear force of 8,896 N (2,000 lbf) Sudden and violent rupture of the test specimen poses risks to personnel, equipment, and property.
Table 2 — Shear test seal classification requirements
Load to failure kN a Seal classification
1 cutting blades, machined from cutter jaws 60, Rockwell “C” scale
2 cutting test fixture (appropriate dimensions depend on final ground size of cutting blades)
F applied shear force a 15,9 mm (5/8 inches) shear gap for seal location during test b 0,1 mm larger than the final ground length/width of the blade
NOTE 1 The cutting test fixture (specimen holder) may be made in two pieces and assembled by bolt or weld construction.
NOTE 2 The opening in the cutting test fixture (specimen holder) may be shimmed to achieve the intended fit Cutting blades shall be in alignment within 0,1 mm.
2 cutting jaw: steel, 60 to 62 Rockwell “C” scale
3 specimen holder: steel, case hardened to 0,7 mm
F applied force a 0,1 mm larger than the final ground length/width of the blade b Cross-section dimension c Minimum 5 × smallest cross-section dimension
This fixture is designed for cable seals with a diameter of less than 2 mm, as well as other seals that are too small in cross-section to be effectively sheared by the fixture illustrated in Figure 6.
NOTE 2 The specimen holder may be made in two pieces and assembled by bolt or weld construction.
NOTE 3 The opening of the specimen holder may be shimmed to achieve the intended fit.
Figure 7 — Shear test bypass apparatus — Small diameter cable, wire and strap seals
Bending test
The bending test evaluates a seal's resistance to failure under bending loads, with the testing method varying based on whether the seal is classified as flexible or rigid Flexible seals are assessed for their durability against repeated bending cycles, while rigid seals are tested for their resistance to deformation caused by bending.
To test flexible seals, secure the locking end and repeatedly flex the adjacent material through a 180° arc until failure or a maximum of 501 cycles Document the number of cycles completed during this 180° flexing, and classify the seal based on these cycles as outlined in Table 3 Each cycle of bending from -90° to +90° should take approximately (3 ± 1) seconds.
Tests should be carried out at a temperature of (18 ± 3) °C.
For single-shaft rigid seals, secure the locking end and place a tube measuring 300 ± 5 mm over ≤ 20 mm of the remaining seal, then apply a load The bending time for each 90° cycle should be (3 ± 1) seconds Document the load necessary to bend the seal and the distance from the fixed end where the load is applied, known as the moment arm Classify the seal based on the maximum bending moment recorded, following the values outlined in Table 3.
To test rigid seals with two shafts, such as those found in padlock seals, secure the locking end and place a lever over 20 mm of the remaining seal Apply a load and rotate the lever until it contacts both shafts, then continue rotating an additional 90° Record the torsional force required for this rotation or the force at which the locking mechanism fails, if it occurs first Classify the seal based on the maximum bending moment recorded, following the values in Table 3 The bending duration to achieve 90° rotation should be (3 ± 1) seconds.
Figures 8 to 10 illustrate the required apparatus for conducting bending tests.
Tests should be carried out at a temperature of (18 ± 3) °C.
3 holding device (vice or similar object)
4 point of applied load a 90° movement b Moment arm
2 vice or similar fixture to fix the seal shackle
3 seal fixture for torque wrench (size and shape of fixture depend on seal shape)
4 torque wrench a Apply torsional load about centreline of seal b Centreline of seal and torque wrench
Figure 9 — Bending test apparatus — Padlock seal
1 bar for load application (shown in rest position)
2 vice or similar fixture to fix seal body
3 shackle of flexible seal a 90° motion (first step) return to rest position (second step) b Top view of seal
Figure 10 — Bending test apparatus — Padlock seal (top view)
Table 3 — Bending test seal classification requirements
< 251 < 22 “I” (indicative seal) a 1 Nm = 0,737 562 1 ft-lbf.
Impact test
5.5.1 The impact test shall be conducted to determine the resistance of the seal to an impact load at
The cold test requires the test specimen and apparatus to be fully chilled in a cold chamber at a temperature of (−27 ± 3) °C The test must be performed within this cold chamber to ensure accurate results.
The impact load will be applied five times at 13.56 J, with subsequent tests increasing the load by 13.56 J after each sequence Testing will continue until the seal either fails or endures five impacts at 40.68 J Additionally, a second set of five seals will be evaluated at a different temperature.
The test fixture must be designed to apply impact loads at the locking mechanism of the seal in the opposite direction of the locking process The impact test apparatus utilizes the same bolt seal support fixture as the tensile test, as shown in Figure 2, with an additional feature for applying impact loads Figure 11 depicts the necessary apparatus for performing impact tests.
The impact test apparatus shall be placed directly on a solid concrete floor.
CAUTION — Use safety glasses during the test During impact, test parts can become detached, which presents an injury risk.
1 base plate: aluminium 9 M16 locking nut
2 support tube: “11/2 in” galvanized pipe 10 shackle fixture: steel, case hardening depth 0,7 mm
3 shaft cross support: aluminium 11 bolt seal support: steel, case hardening depth 0,7 mm
4 fixture support: steel 12 bolt seal support washer: steel, case hardening depth 0,7 mm
5 weight guide shaft: steel 13 bolt seal location
6 anvil collar: steel 14 M20 locking nut
7 dead blow weight: steel, (4 ± 0,01) kg 15 2 × counterbore for M8
8 adjustable stop collar: steel a Dead blow drop height
NOTE All fasteners used shall be Class 12.9 with the specified thread pitch English substitute fasteners shall be Grade 8 and have a diameter equal or greater than the specified fastener.
Figure 11 — Impact test apparatus (continued)
The seal classification will be determined according to the criteria outlined in Table 4, focusing on the lowest impact load observed during seal failure To achieve a high-security classification, all ten test samples must withstand five impacts of 40.68 J under both high and low temperature conditions.
Table 4 — Impact test seal classification requirements
Low temperature impact load, J High temperature impact load, J Dead blow mass drop height (see Figure 10) Seal classification
Seal classification test report
The test report must include essential information such as the identification and description of the test specimen, a reference to ISO 17712, and the specific results of the tests conducted Additionally, it should detail any conditioning or pre-treatment applied, as well as the temperature and relative humidity in the test room during the evaluation Furthermore, the report must provide information about the supply and monitoring equipment used, the response criteria, and any deviations from the International Standard or related international standards, including any optional operations performed.
General
This clause mandates the design and construction of seals with tamper-evident features that provide clear evidence of tampering The primary purpose of any seal is to indicate tampering attempts, ensuring that any alterations are visibly detectable In real-world applications, this necessitates that the evidence of tampering is accessible for visual or other inspections by commercial or regulatory personnel.
Manufacturers seeking Clause 6 compliance for high-security seals must demonstrate tamper-evident properties and provide related documentation to auditors from an accredited process review organization This requirement is part of the seal manufacturer’s ISO 9001 Quality Operational Procedures (QOP) as outlined in Normative Annex A The independent auditing agency's report will evaluate the compliance of the manufacturer’s tamper evidence program, including testing To facilitate customer and regulatory interactions, manufacturers can request a summary letter from the auditing agency certifying compliance.
NOTE 1 “An accredited process review organization” is a third-party organization accredited according to ISO/IEC 17020.
NOTE 2 Tamper-evident capabilities can result from engineering and design features, methods of construction, or a combination of factors.
Resistance to tampering is a crucial aspect of seal design and manufacturing Given enough time, motivation, and resources, any security product can be compromised, highlighting the importance of robust tamper resistance in security solutions.
Seals are particularly susceptible to tampering before they are applied and closed, making it essential for designers and manufacturers to reduce the risk of pre-closure manipulation This type of tampering, known as pre-tampering, often involves collusion within the supply chain, typically occurring at the shipment's origin before the container is sealed To effectively mitigate the risk of pre-tampering, it is crucial to implement stringent security measures regarding seal procedures Key factors include how seals are received from manufacturers, their storage prior to application, and the individuals responsible for affixing them Customs administrations and regulatory bodies should address these aspects through user policies, training, and system discipline as part of the authorization process for trading entities to utilize their own seals instead of customs seals.
Internal testing of shipping container seals must align with the specific type of seal and the typical shipping conditions it will face To comply with security practices and certification under Normative Annex A (A.3.2), seal manufacturers are required to conduct appropriate testing of the tamper-evident features in their high-security seal products This testing should occur every two years, as outlined in A.3.3 a), or sooner if there are significant changes to the seal's design or materials Only seals intended for sale may be tested; testing of non-sale seals is not allowed.
The manufacturer must provide relevant seal products along with documented internal test processes, procedures, and results to auditors from the accredited organization conducting ISO 9001 quality system certification This documentation should also be available to competent governmental agencies and legitimate private seal users upon request.
NOTE Normative Annex A requires ISO 9001 certification by properly accredited independent auditors.
The effective date for compliance with Clause 6 is set for 12 months following the publication of this International Standard After this period, manufacturers providing ISO 17712-compliant high-security seals must adhere to the requirements outlined in paragraph 2 of section 6.1.1.
There is a twelve-month transition delay for Clause 6 tamper evidence conformance, allowing manufacturers and accreditation agencies to prepare for the new ISO 9001 certification requirement for tamper-evident procedures This period ensures that mandatory independent tamper-evident processes can be established without hindering trade due to a shortage of compliant high-security seals Additionally, Annex B outlines the transition period for testing related to Clause 6.
Test apparatus
The testing apparatus must accurately simulate the container door and locking mechanisms that seals typically face during regular use As illustrated in Figure 12, it presents a medium challenge scenario for potential intruders, featuring a container-on-chassis design with inner locking rods on both the left and right sides for cable and similar seals Additionally, it includes a flat vertical surface for mounting a shipping container-style door handle at approximately 2 meters above the floor, suitable for testing bolt seals This versatile apparatus is applicable for evaluating all common types of seals.
Figure 12 illustrates the most common seal locations on a large fleet of containers currently in service These locations are more susceptible to handling and manipulation compared to modern container door fastening systems, making them the most challenging for testing seal tamper evidence Consequently, seals applied to container hardware that minimizes exposure to manipulation will offer enhanced tamper resistance This principle applies to all new-build containers, which are required to comply with ISO container design standards, specifically ISO 1496-1.
NOTE 2 The focus of this International Standard is mechanical seals; it does not address the design of the container door fixtures.
1 standard grade container door replacement hardware mounted on 2,0 cm or thicker exterior grade plywood
2 vertical bars represent interior locking rods on the left and right container doors
Vertical bars must extend at least one meter above the locking bar clamps and be securely clamped to the plywood at that height Additionally, the locking bar clamps should maintain a distance of 50 mm between the vertical rods and the plywood mounting board.
This test fixture is designed to offer mounting locations for bolts, cables, and various seals, enabling the in situ testing of these seals for tamper evidence It is important to note that the fixture is not intended for testing alternative types of container door hardware.
Test tools
Test tools must consist of commonly used hand tools found in workplaces, such as gripping devices, levers, pliers, knives, and hammers Additionally, hand-held power tools like drills and specialized instruments, including wire probes and dental tools, should be included Furthermore, devices must be available to subject the tested seal to extreme temperature conditions, utilizing hot water, flame, freezing appliances, or aerosols.
Test methods
This section outlines various test methods for evaluating tamper attempts on seals Manufacturers must exercise discretion in selecting the appropriate procedure, as the suitability of methods depends on the specific design and construction of the seal being tested.
6.4.2 The internal testing shall be carried out on randomly selected seals of normal production Seals shall be tested as sold.
The internal testing process must establish suitable test procedures for the seal model being evaluated Each procedure will be conducted on an individual seal that is properly installed according to the manufacturer's guidelines and positioned on the designated test fixture.
6.4.2.2 Per ISO 9001 procedures, manufacturers shall establish written instructions on how to perform each test.
Testers can employ either individual tools or a combination of tools and methods to try to disengage, damage, separate, or manipulate the seal's locking mechanism The objective of these procedures is to enable the seal to be opened and re-closed without any visible signs of tampering.
Efforts can be made to disassemble and reconstruct the seal for re-closure using original, commonly available replica, or substitute parts from a similar practice seal, all while ensuring that no visible evidence of the process remains.
Tamper test methods include spinning bolt heads, utilizing probes to disengage the locking mechanism from the pin, and attempting to substitute a removed head or bolt with one that has a modified identification number.
Manufacturers shall define the specific procedures based on the type and design of the seal and conditions of typical use.
Detailed test procedures are not specified for two main reasons: the need to maintain seal security by avoiding the publication of tampering methods that could aid potential wrongdoers, and the impracticality of creating customized procedures due to the diverse range of seal designs and construction methods.
The lack of specific tamper test specifications in this International Standard, combined with the discretion given to manufacturers, presents a unique challenge and responsibility Process review organizations should incorporate an evaluation of how each manufacturer addresses this challenge during their certification and auditing of compliance with ISO 9001 or equivalent quality systems.
Evidence of tampering
After a tamper attempt, it is crucial to inspect the tested seal for signs of tampering This involves a close visual examination, starting with a manual pull using a twisting motion opposite to the locking action Further physical inspections may be necessary Tamper-evident features should be designed for easy inspection to allow for regular checks during transit Different seal types will exhibit various signs of tampering, as detailed in Table 5.
NOTE ASTM F1158, Guide for inspection and evaluation of tampering of security seals, [9] is a useful field and training guide.
Table 5 — Evidence of tampering related to type of seal
When conducting security checks on seal types, it is crucial to look for evidence of tampering, such as abrasions or chemical distortions around the seal markings Pay special attention to post-production marks, scratches, and the surfaces near locking areas, construction joins, and welds Inspect for deformities or inconsistencies in the seal profile, particularly at entry points for male-into-female locking mechanisms and exit points for pull-through designs Ensure there is appropriate free play in locking mechanisms designed for it, while confirming that there is no free play in those that do not allow it For bolt seals, check for clamping marks on the plasticized or plain pin, and look for signs of cutting and re-joining on the exposed shaft and base of the bush For cable seals, examine for frayed sections or deformations along the cable's length, as well as evidence of abrasion, drilling, or gluing where the cable is fixed to the seal body Lastly, for plastic and plastic-sheathed seals, inspect for scratches, abrasions, heat welding, or gluing on all surfaces, and watch for blanching of color on polypropylene materials.
Seal manufacturers and users should not solely depend on this table for incorporating tamper-evident features in seal products It is essential to regularly monitor publicly available information, such as online resources, to stay informed about attempts to compromise seals without leaving obvious signs of tampering as part of their security practices.
Test results
Manufacturers are required to supply independent auditors and validators with comprehensive information regarding tamper-testing processes, specifically focusing on practical attacks related to the seal type This documentation can include photographs, videos, or a physical examination of actual test samples.
Seal manufacturers’ security-related practices
This annex addresses security-related practices relevant to the manufacture and distribution of seals that conform to this International Standard.
This International Standard outlines the six stages in the lifecycle of a freight container seal, as detailed in Table A.1 It emphasizes security-related practices specific to seal manufacturers, concentrating on their responsibilities and actions at each stage.
In this annex, the term "Manufacturer" denotes the company that designs the product and oversees its market introduction If the company owns and operates one or more factories for seal production, both the headquarters and these factories are included under the term "manufacturer." Conversely, if the company subcontracts seal production, the term still refers to the driving company rather than the operator or owner of the subcontracted factory.
In order to demonstrate conformance to this annex, manufacturers shall have a timely audit completed by an independent process certification provider specifically accredited to audit conformance with ISO 17712.
NOTE Manufacturers might find it convenient to have audits for ISO 17712 performed at the same time and by the same provider that performs its audit for ISO 9001.
Table A.1 — Six stages in the life of a freight container seal
Stage num- ber Stage name Role of seal manufacturers
3 distribution shall set security-related performance expectations for distributors and resellers shall help educate distributors and re-sellers
User knowledge and discipline are essential for educating individuals on the proper care and application of seals This understanding is crucial for ensuring the correct use of seals on containers, trailers, and other receptacles.
5 in-transit management may help users and regulators educate supply chain personnel
After-life total responsibility for data management on production, sales, and seal identification numbers is crucial for educating distributors and resellers This ensures they maintain accurate historical records of their seal inventories and sales However, it is important to note that they do not have a role in preserving chain-of-custody information for completed cargo shipments.
Manufacturers must adhere to the International Standard when designing and classifying the physical performance characteristics of seals, which includes uniform procedures for classifying mechanical seals for freight containers The standard specifies physical parameters for various seal performance levels, including indicative, security, and high-security seals While primarily focused on freight containers, seals that meet this standard are also applicable to other uses, such as bulk railcars and truck trailers in both cross-border and domestic operations Additionally, manufacturers are required to incorporate effective tamper resistance and tamper evidence into all seal products, in accordance with Clause 4.
A.3 Manufacturer security-related practices in stage 2, manufacturing
This clause describes the security-related practices to be applied by seal manufacturers during stage 2.
Certification under A.3 encompasses two key dimensions: the first focuses on the security-related business processes of the manufacturer (A.3.2), while the second pertains to the physical properties of the seals (A.3.3).
Seal manufacturers must uphold an ISO 9001 (or equivalent) quality system at all manufacturing facilities to ensure product quality and confidence through certification When sourcing contract production services for market-ready seal products, it is essential to select plants that adhere to this quality standard In cases where a facility fails to maintain the required system, appropriate customs and regulatory bodies must be notified Security practices should align with the International Standard, and manufacturers must accept random audits by accredited third-party bodies to verify compliance An initial security risk assessment and periodic reviews are necessary to address potential vulnerabilities, with designated knowledgeable individuals responsible for security and product integrity Cooperation with law enforcement and regulatory bodies is crucial for addressing compliance issues, while a crisis management strategy must be developed to handle tampering and other threats Additionally, background checks on all employees should be conducted as permitted by local laws.
The term "third-party process review bodies" refers to qualified governmental agencies or authorities This International Standard does not require industry certifying or regulatory bodies to disclose trade secrets or proprietary information to competitors.
Manufacturers must submit products to an accredited independent testing laboratory for mechanical testing and provide internal testing procedures and results to confirm tamper evidence testing and compliance, as mandated by Clauses 5 and 6 Seals must be marked with the manufacturer's identity and produced with unique numbers and identifiers, which cannot be reused or duplicated without authorization Tracking of physical identifiers, including production dates and consignee names, is required for at least seven years for regulatory access Distribution of custom-designed seal tools is restricted to authorized facilities, and any incidental scrap production must be rendered non-functional before disposal Access to production and storage areas must be controlled, with loaded trailers secured on the premises Inspections should verify driver identification and the count of inbound seal components, while a policy for off-hour deliveries must ensure prior notice and the presence of an authorized individual to receive shipments.
A.4 Manufacturer security-related practices in stage 3, distribution
Sales organizations, including distributors and resellers, play a crucial role in either strengthening or weakening a manufacturer's security program It is essential for manufacturers to educate their distributors and resellers on the significance, mutual benefits, and details of effective seal security programs.
Manufacturers must establish security guidelines and ensure that their distributors and resellers adhere to them Distributors and resellers are required to allow manufacturers to review their security procedures If manufacturers identify any security gaps in the practices of distributors or resellers, they must recommend necessary changes to enhance oversight and accountability for seals and related devices Additionally, distributors and resellers are prohibited from selling seals or related devices without the manufacturer's identity clearly marked on them They must also maintain comprehensive records of all seal shipments, including the source, seal numbers, descriptions, and the names and addresses of both the order placer and the consignee, retaining these records for a minimum specified period.
Distributors and resellers are required to maintain records for seven years to assist government investigations into cargo shipment incidents They must conduct initial security risk assessments of their facilities and implement necessary countermeasures to address potential vulnerabilities Access to storage areas and loading docks should be controlled, with seals and related devices stored securely All loaded trailers or containers on the premises must be locked Additionally, distributors and resellers should verify driver identification and inspect the load and count of inbound seal components A policy for off-hour deliveries must be established, ensuring prior notice and the presence of an authorized individual to receive shipments, with advance notification required from all vendors or suppliers.
A.5 Manufacturer security-related practices in stage 4, user knowledge and disci- pline
This stage emphasizes the security practices of legitimate users, including government entities like customs administrations, which may apply seals to container shipments In this context, the role of seal manufacturers in stage 4 is primarily focused on providing education.
Seal manufacturers can enhance security practices by providing educational information about seals on product packaging, literature, websites, and through on-site training They should educate users on the importance of proper control and record-keeping of seals before application and use, as well as instruct them on the correct and most effective use of seals in compliance with relevant standards and regulations.
A.6 Manufacturer security-related practices in stage 5, in-transit management
In-transit shipment chain-of-custody falls beyond the responsibility of the seal manufacturer However, manufacturers may help users and regulators educate supply chain personnel.