We have reached a point where the proposed and tested cold chain package design has moved to final qualification testing with full documentation. (Read about what happens earlier in the process here.)
The Integritemp team or the third-party testing lab presents a detailed qualification testing report. The report covers the following elements:
· Testing Objectives
· Protocol Testing Specifications
· Test Methodology
· Acceptance Criteria
· Test Results Overview
· Any non-conformance experienced in the tests
· Test Notes
· Conclusions
If any non-conformance issues were experienced in the testing, then the client has the opportunity to decide if revisions are needed. This results in new testing. Or, the client can simply make note of the non-conformance and accept the test results as successful.
If the acceptance criteria are met and no non-conformance issues are noted, then the test results can be accepted by the client.
With acceptance & approval of the qualification test results, the new package design is ready for implementation at the client’s fulfillment & shipping center.
The client’s shipping department staff needs detailed training on the protocol for processing the new qualified cold chain package. Attention to detail is vital to ensure proper performance and temperature control. The test report documentation includes a detailed pack-out diagram for the shipping staff to follow. Pre-conditioning requirements for the packaging components and product need to be followed closely.
What happens next?? Stay tuned for next month’s blog! We continue our walkthrough of the cold chain package design implementation process with a discussion on the importance of training the shipping staff.
Please watch for next month’s blog where I will continue our conversation with more facts, figures, and good news about EPS foam!
Greg Montgomery
gmontgomery@integritemp.com
Office: 402-884-4290