Packaging Error Proofing: Labeling Verification

[dreinsdo]

Hi all,

I'm not sure if this is the right forum, so please advise if this should be moved elsewhere - I couldn't find a packaging engineering forum. I work at a biomedical device company, and have a need for implementing an error or mistake proofing system with respect to product labeling. Labeling includes product labels and instructions for use. The labels exist on the face of the product box and pouch contained within the box. The instruction set is also packaged inside the box. Can anyone advise me on potential solutions for verifying labeling of each package product? This could be implemented anwywhere in the process - at the shipping level, packaging level, or somewhere in between. Please let me know if you have any questions or need further information. Thank you!

 

[truckandbus]

I have no direct experience but a quick Google search indicates that this topic is big in the food handling business and drug handling. Microscan is the first hit when you google search 'packaging error proofing'.

If I were doing this from scratch I'd bar code the box, device pouch, and instruction sheet and software check all three match before sealing the box.

 

[telecomguy]

FYI, here's the Packaging Design engineering forum:

http://eng-tips.com/threadminder.cfm?pid=820

Bar coding sounds like a good approach. Depending on the number of product options, you might be able to use a custom color-coding or other visually distinguishable flag.

I had a product once that had a serial# label on the bottom of the device, a matching serialized CD with software and manuals, and then an external label on the packaging. All had to be in sync. We were a small company with low volume sales so we just manually verified each unit. But no doubt this has been an ongoing dilemma for others. Maybe the Packaging forum can provide some good input.

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