4.1 This design and evaluation guide describes multiple categories for evaluating flexible medical packages and packaging materials. These include safety, barrier, material and package performance attributes and characteristics, package integrity, visibility and appearance, processing, printed ink, distribution simulation, and conditioning.

4.2 The intent of this design and evaluation guide is to evaluate all cited categories and select those that are applicable. Once the product has been characterized and the sterilization methodology has been defined, there are numerous sets of requirements for any specific package. This design and evaluation guide provides an avenue for assessing these requirements and choosing test methods for both evaluating the package design and monitoring package compliance.

Note 1: Many of the standards included in this guide are consensus standards that are recognized by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Selection and use of a U.S. FDA recognized consensus standard is voluntary and the sole responsibility of the user in determining its applicability. For further information, consult the U.S. FDA Standards and Conformity Assessment Program at https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/device-advice-comprehensive-regulatoryassistance/standards-and-conformity-assessment-program

4.3 Product characterization shall include mass or weight, geometry (length and width, height, and shape) and product composition.

4.4 All categories must be considered for applicability.

4.5 The Summary of Test Methods for Medical Packaging Design and Evaluation (Fig. 1) provides a compact graphical presentation of the test methods referenced in this guide.

1.1 This guide provides directions for the design and evaluation of primary flexible packages for medical products. The package materials must be selected appropriately for manufacturing process, end use, and the product being packaged.

1.2 This guide provides a compendium of test methods, practices, and procedures. Specific individual test methods must be selected based on the pertinent characteristics of the specific product to be packaged and the purpose for testing, research and development, or compliance. Not all test methods will be applicable.

1.3 This guide does not address acceptability criteria, which need to be determined jointly by the package producer and the medical products manufacturer.

1.4 This guide does not assess the product to be packaged or the sterilization method to be used.

1.5 The units cited in the referenced standard should be used.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.