Meaning
International standards establish the mechanical strength and physical properties required for high security seals on shipping containers. Compliance with iso 17712 ensures that a seal cannot be removed without heavy tools or leaving visible evidence of tampering. The standard classifies seals into three categories based on their resistance to tension, shear, and impact.
These categories are indicative, security, and high security.
Mechanical Testing
Laboratory procedures subject the bolt or cable to rigorous pulling and crushing forces. To meet the high security grade under iso 17712, a seal must withstand a tensile force of ten kilonewtons. It must also resist bending and impact at extreme temperatures.
These tests guarantee that the seal remains intact during the rough handling of ocean transit.
Tamper Evidence
Design features prevent the reconstruction of a broken seal or the insertion of a tool to bypass the locking mechanism. Under the iso 17712 framework, manufacturers must use materials that show permanent deformation when stressed. This allows customs officials to quickly identify a breached container.
Laser marking of serial numbers prevents the replacement of the seal with a duplicate.
Manufacturer Audit
Facilities producing these devices must undergo regular inspections to verify their quality control processes.