THE DECISION IN BRIEF
Our lotion head locks for transport. Can we describe the pack as tamper evident?
Only if a separately reviewed feature provides the intended opening indication. A lock state alone should not be treated as evidence that the package has never been opened.
Write two different requirements
A lock can help prevent accidental actuation, while an opening indicator communicates a different condition to the buyer. State both objectives in the brief. Ask what visible or otherwise intended change shows that access occurred, and what users should do when they see it.
O.Berk describes up-lock and down-lock features as protection against accidental output. That description does not establish tamper evidence, so the locking mechanism should not silently satisfy a separate requirement in the packaging specification.
Check the feature against its purpose
Review any proposed band, label or other feature with the packaging and product teams. Requirements depend on the product and market; this table is a purchasing distinction, not legal guidance.
| Purpose | Evidence to examine |
|---|---|
| Reduce accidental pressing | Approved lock state and handling results |
| Indicate first opening | Visible change produced by intended opening |
| Support easy first use | Removal action and clear instructions |
| Maintain presentation | Decoration and pack condition after application |
Evaluate the finished presentation
Apply the proposed feature using the intended production process. Check that it does not interfere with the actuator, collar or cap, and that ordinary opening produces the intended indication. Inspect the user's removal sequence and any material left on touch points.
Decide whether the indication is clear to a person who has never handled the pack. A feature obvious to the design team may be ambiguous at retail. Use the final artwork and colour rather than a plain prototype where contrast differs.
Include application, inspection and packing responsibilities in the quotation. A component supplied separately may add equipment, labour and line checks that are absent from the pump unit price.
Retain photographs of the unopened and opened approved states with the exact material references. If pump geometry or decoration changes, assess whether the indicator still works and remains understandable. This gives purchasing a defined result to order instead of attaching a broad claim to a transport lock that was never designed to provide it.
Sources & further reading
Use the references below alongside the selected component drawing and agreed sample plan. Product-specific claims need product-specific evidence.
PRODUCT REFERENCES
Components to discuss with your supplier.
These references share the component type discussed here. Confirm the selected assembly and application with samples.
Related articles
VIEW THE COMPONENTS
