German packaging specialist Duttenhöfer has become one of the first in the industry to offer traceability for drums in compliance with the new chemical industry standard VPA 9.
This is based on an integrated product from Herma consisting of labels with QR codes and its PA4 print and apply system. According to Duttenhöfer, the demand for traceability is growing and Herma enables it to respond in ‘the best possible way’.
Action is being taken to ensure that chemical containers can be traced. One such measure is the adoption by the German chemical industry association VCI of the voluntary standard VPA 9. It forms a part of the chemical industry’s digitalisation strategy.
As a partner for industrial packaging options headquartered in Hassloch in southwest Germany, Duttenhöfer is one of the first in its field of expertise to implement traceability for certain customers, including leading global chemical companies.
At the moment Duttenhöfer is focusing its attention on standard 216.5-litre sheet steel drums.
Dieter Niggemeier, head of process engineering and hazardous materials officer at the company, said, ‘Our customers want to be able to trace drums quickly and reliably, especially those containing food. We have been using Herma for several months now and are very satisfied as regards both working with the technology and the label material, which was developed in line with the VPA 9 requirements.’
Key to traceability is a QR code printed on a label which is applied to an open-top drum. The code contains a serial number, information about the drum manufacturer and a container number issued by the user. It allows each individual drum to be identified and localised as it is conveyed along supply chains and transport routes.
The code also helps the user, while filling the product, to ensure that an appropriate container is being used.
