Jan 1, 2003 12:00 PM

Companies that use tamper-indicating seals to help in identifying or to deter and detect unauthorized access can improve the effectiveness of these devices through use of bar-coding technology. The E J Brooks Co offers 18 products that feature bar-coding in a choice of Interleaved 2 of 5, Code 39, or Code 128 symbologies.

Bar-coding seals enable users to record seal information faster and more accurately. Using a hand-held scanner, a seal's identity can be recorded, verified, and/or tracked. If a seal is used in a stationary application, scanning the bar code electronically confirms that the original seal that had been installed is, in fact, the one in place. For seals used in transit, bar codes enable users to electronically record and track the seal at various points along its travel, as well as to confirm their integrity at destination. The electronic data can be downloaded to a computer and/or e-mailed to relevant parties.

E J Brooks seals are bar-coded either directly onto the seals or by application of vinyl labels. Laser etching or inkjet printing is used to apply bar codes directly on the product. When vinyl labels are used to display the bar code, those labels self-destruct if tampering occurs.

In the case of the bar-coded Enduro-Seal, the label is visible through the clear, outer seal body encasement. Any attempt to withdraw the hasp will damage the bar code, making the tampering attempt obvious.

For additional information, contact E J Brooks, 8 Microlab Rd, Livingston NJ 07039.