- OBJECTIVE:
To lay down a procedure for preparation and issuance of standard specimen of printed packing material.
- SCOPE:
This SOP is applicable for preparation and issuance of standard specimen of printed packing material at {Company Name} {Company Location}.
- RESPONSIBILITY:
Marketing Head, Purchase Department Head/Designee, QC Executive/Designee
QA Executive / Designee.
- ACCOUNTABILITY:
QA Head & QC Head
- PROCEDURE:
- Purchase Department shall arrange printed specimen samples of shade cards which shall consists of one light, standard and dark shade from printer.
- Purchase department shall be responsible to send the shade card to QA department.
- QA officer/Executive shall check the standard specimen of shade card against approved artwork.
- Final approval shall be given by QA department.
- After the final approval of shade card from QA department. QC shall prepare a record for shade cards as per current artwork.
- QA department shall distribute the one-one copy of shade cards to QC, purchase department & marketing department.
- After getting the approval from all departments, QA shall send the approved shade card to vendor for further reference and consignment of printing.
- Approved shade card shall be valid for 2 years and it shall be revised after 2 years or as whenever required.
- QC, Purchase Department & Marketing department shall handover the shade cards to QA department, same shall be destroyed by QA Officer/Executive as per SOP.
- REFERENCES:
Not Applicable
- ANNEXURES:
Not Applicable
ENCLOSURES: SOP Training Record.
- DISTRIBUTION:
| Controlled Copy No. 01 | : | Head Quality Assurance |
| Controlled Copy No. 02 | : | Head Quality Control Department |
| Controlled Copy No. 03 | : | Head Purchase Department |
| Controlled Copy No. 04 | : | Head Marketing Department |
| Master Copy | : | Quality Assurance Department |
- ABBREVIATIONS:
| QA | : | Quality Assurance |
| SOP | : | Standard Operating Procedure |
| PD | : | Purchase Department |
| QC | : | Quality Control |
CHANGE HISTORY LOG
| Revision No. | Details of Changes | Reason for Change | Effective Date |
| 00 | New SOP | Not Applicable | To be written manual. |
Frequently Asked Question?
1. What is the purpose of issuing standard specimens of printed packing material?
Answer: Standard specimens provide a reference point for manufacturers, designers, and quality control inspectors to ensure consistency and adherence to specific print quality and material specifications. They allow for objective evaluation of various printed packing materials and ensure compatibility with equipment and other packaging components.
2. What factors are considered when determining the specifications for a standard specimen?
Answer: Several factors are considered, including:
- Type of product being packaged: This influences the required material properties, strength, and safety features.
- Printing process: Different printing methods (flexography, offset, etc.) have different capabilities and limitations.
- Target audience and market regulations: Regional and international regulations might govern specific printed information like safety warnings or barcodes.
- Environmental considerations: Sustainability and recyclability of the material may be crucial.
3. Who is responsible for developing and approving standard specimens?
Answer: This depends on the context. Organizations like the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and national standardization bodies (e.g., ASTM in the US) develop and maintain internationally recognized standards. Industry associations or individual companies may also define their own internal standards for specific applications.
4. What information is typically included on a standard specimen?
Answer: The information can vary, but usually includes:
- Material type and specifications: Thickness, composition, strength properties, etc.
- Printing details: Ink type, resolution, color accuracy, etc.
- Design elements: Layout, logos, text, barcodes, etc.
- Performance requirements: Tear strength, abrasion resistance, water resistance, etc.
- Additional markings: Certifications, traceability codes, etc.
5. How are standard specimens prepared and distributed?
Answer: The preparation process depends on the complexity of the specimen and the required quantity. Typically, they are printed on specialized equipment with controlled settings to ensure consistency. Distribution channels can include authorized testing laboratories, industry members, or direct purchase from the organization responsible for the standard.
6. How are standard specimens used in quality control?
Answer: Manufacturers and packaging suppliers use standard specimens to:
- Compare their printed materials to the desired specifications.
- Identify issues during the printing process and make adjustments.
- Conduct performance tests to ensure the material meets requirements.
- Provide verification to customers and regulatory bodies.
7. What are the challenges associated with preparing and issuing standard specimens?
Answer: Challenges include:
- Maintaining reproducibility and consistency across different printing batches.
- Accurately representing the performance of the material in real-world conditions.
- Keeping up with technological advancements and evolving industry needs.
- Ensuring accessibility and affordability of standard specimens.
8. How can technology be used to improve the preparation and use of standard specimens?
Answer: Advances like digital printing, advanced scanning and color measurement tools, and data management software can improve:
- Accuracy and consistency of specimen preparation.
- Automated quality control checks and data analysis.
- Traceability and record-keeping of specimen distribution and usage.
9. What are the future trends in preparing and issuing standard specimens?
Answer: We can expect trends towards:
- More robust and adaptable standards that account for diverse packaging applications.
- Greater use of digital platforms for specimen distribution and online quality control tools.
- Sustainable practices in specimen preparation and material usage.
10. Where can I find more information about standard specimens for printed packing materials?
Answer: You can check resources from these organizations:
- International Organization for Standardization (ISO): https://www.iso.org/home.html
- ASTM International: https://www.iso.org/organization/3000.html
- Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI): https://www.pmi.org/
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST): https://www.nist.gov/
