1.1This guide provides directions for the design and evaluation of primary flexible packages for medical products. The package materials must be selected appropriately for manufacturing process, end use, and the product being packaged.

1.2This guide provides a compendium of test methods, practices, and procedures. Specific individual test methods must be selected based on the pertinent characteristics of the specific product to be packaged and the purpose for testing, research and development, or compliance. Not all test methods will be applicable.

1.3This guide does not address acceptability criteria, which need to be determined jointly by the package producer and the medical products manufacturer.

1.4This guide does not assess the product to be packaged or the sterilization method to be used.

1.5The units cited in the referenced standard should be used.

1.6This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.