Top Tips for Security Sealing

Every effective security process demands cargo or information to be incorporated into a secure supply chain process which uses traceable and tamper-evident security seals within the framework. The ability to monitor the security seals in a documented process that aims to mitigate the risk of tampering, theft and data loss through a framework that enables complete transparency.

Here are 5 TOP TIPS for security sealing that you should consider when protecting your cargo.

Seal Procurement

The selection of a suitable security seal should be based on key factors such as:

Current security practices that are already in place
The value of assets in transit –based on either monetary or sensitivity value.
Types of sealing application – high volume of security sealing will require easy-application seals, but large cargo may require a seal with more secure application.
Environmental considerations – temperature of storage unit, tensile strength of the seal in relation to the weight of the cargo.

For effective tracking of inventory, customisation can be applied from a variety of printing options and colours, which can make the security seals unique to your business and tailored to your application. The variation in seal colours can indicate a variety of different areas, such as departments, products or even personnel.

Seal Installation

Once your selected seals have been delivered, it is important to visually inspect them to ensure that they have not been compromised at any point during the initial the supply chain. The seals should then be stored in a secure area, only accessible by authorised personnel and with a serial or barcode number that is trackable through a detailed log of the delivered seals.

There must be an up-to-date and accurate maintaining of outbound seal logs and the relevant information must be recorded before a security seal is allowed to leave your secure storage location. These logs should include details such as time of release, seal description, application, vehicle number and identity of the person installing the seals. Only the appropriate personnel who have been trained on the proper installation method should be allowed to operate the security seal through the framework.

Seal Inspection

Before the seal is applied, you will need to conduct a visual inspection of the seal and the locking area. To confirm if the seal has been installed correctly, gently pull the seal apart to ensure that the locking mechanism has been properly engaged. This will ensure the goods for transit are secure for delivery.

Seal Removal

When the cargo arrives at its destination, the security seal should be visually inspected for any irregularities or tamper marks. If the security seal is colour coded or has sequential numbering, the seal should be checked against the log details to ensure the cargo is secured with its original security seal.

During the inspection, gently pull the seal apart to ensure that the locking mechanism has not been compromised in any way. Any errors or discrepancies can highlight potential attempts of a cargo breach or theft, and this should be reported and documented immediately.

Seal Disposal

All security seals should be destroyed after use, to prevent fraudulent use of old seals. Methods of destruction such as crushing and cutting will ensure that the locking mechanism and marking of the seals are no longer distinguishable after use.

Did you know?

Most common cargo-crime locations were warehouses and distribution centres, which accounted for 23% of all losses.

For more advice about security sealing, please call us on 01252 624305 or e-mail us on sales@jwproducts.co.uk.
To view the JW range of security products, please click here.

References:
International Cargo Security Council Statistics
Cargonet 2015
Essentra Components 2016

Top Tips for Security Sealing