If a seal can be opened by any means and successfully reapplied without exhibiting signs indicative of prior attack, the integral quality of the seal is in serious question. This guide allows that any particular method of attempted defeat can be employed to defeat a seal, and concentrates not on the effectiveness of the seal to resist that attack, but rather on the nature of the individual seal to inhibit reapplication.

This standard presents guidelines for inspection to assist in determining whether an attempt to defeat a security seal, and to possibly reapply the seal, has been made. In all cases, the guidelines are meant to focus attention on signs of attack and reapplication.

1.1 This guide covers procedures for the inspection and evaluation of tampering of security seals.

1.2 A security seal is a device intended to detect tampering or entry. Evaluate only single use locking devices under this guide. The following procedures shall serve as guidelines for detecting attempts at defeat and reapplication of a security seal.

1.3 This guide is not intended to be fully comprehensive; certain types of security seals, such as labels, have not been addressed to date. Further, it is the responsibility of users of this guide to interpret their specific security needs concerning the use of seals, and to determine the grade of seal appropriate for their particular application. ASTM assumes no responsibility for losses occurring as a result of a defeated seal.