Packaging

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to ensure that packaging methods are undertaken to prevent damage and/or deterioration.  In addition, packaging shall be used to ensure lot integrity, prevent contamination and ensure product traceability.

Background

Documented procedures shall be established and maintained to ensure packaged product is not damaged or altered.

Scope

Applies to product and materials during manufacturing, warehousing, shipping and delivery to internal and external customers.

Responsible Manager and/or Environmental Health and Safety Manager is responsible for:

• Determining special packaging requirements
• Creating reference procedures

Handler is responsible for:

• Implementing standard and special packaging procedures

Definitions

• “Packaging” means the product shipping container, packing material and the markings on the container.
• “Carrier” means a commercially available transportation specialist, such as a courier service or trucking firm.
• “Handler” means the person who arranges product for delivery or receives, manufactures, moves, stores or packages the product.
• “Responsible Manager” means the individual directly responsible for ensuring a high quality organization by complying with policies or procedures.

Procedure

Packaging – General

1. Where possible, packaging solutions as recommended by the carriers shall be considered acceptable unless special packaging is required.

2. Only product approved for release shall be distributed to customers.

3. The package shall be clearly identified with the following information:

4. shipping destination

5. company name and full return address

6. Special handling conditions, if required

7. Identifying number for traceability (e.g., Purchase Order number)

8. Markings and labels shall be legible, durable, in the required language(s) and tamper-resistant.

9. Packaging instructions shall be prepared by the Responsible Manager.  These instructions shall include information on cushioning, blocking, crating, cleaning and preserving (i.e., moisture elimination), as required.

10. The Handler shall verify the shipped contents against the relevant documentation (e.g., packing list or bill of lading) before sealing the package.

Special Packaging

11. Special packaging procedures shall be used as determined by the Responsible Manager.

12. Where customized packaging materials and/or containers are required, they shall be designed and constructed to protect the product from alteration or damage during distribution, storage and handling.

13. Special packaging procedures shall be prepared and implemented for handling materials that may be biological, radioactive, explosive, flammable, highly pressurised, corrosive or reactive.

14. Proper training shall be implemented, as required, when following special packaging procedures, to ensure a safe level of packaging and handling.

15. Special packaging may be required for temperature-sensitive materials and product.  Heat-sensitive items under temperature control shall be monitored as required.