Security Label Troubleshooting Guide

For the recommended surfaces and an application temperature of 70F (or higher), the tamper evident feature (OPENED) should function within 10 seconds, but we recommend to allow 1 minute.

Applying labels at temperatures less than 70F may require more cure time on the surface, but never more than 1 hour.

Let's work through the checklist.....

1. Confirm the surface is on the "RECOMMENDED SURFACES" list for the label you purchased (see the section "Choosing a Non Residue Label").
2. When applied, the surface must be a MINIMUM of +25°F. To confirm if temperature is an issue, temporarily move to a location where the surface can achieve a higher temperature (ideally +70°F) and test again.
3. The surface must be dry. Moisture of any kind can cause a problem. Dry thoroughly with a clean paper towel and repeat the test.
4. The surface must be clean. Wipe with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove dust or other loose particles, then repeat the test.
5. If there are possible chemical contaminants (oil, lubricants, release agents, etc), clean the surface with minimum 90% isopropyl alcohol. Wipe the alcohol dry with clean dry cloth or paper towel, then repeat the test.
6. If the surface has a clear coat or clear varnish, confirm if the varnish is still present after the label is removed. It is possible for the label to remove the clear coat if it is not bonded well to the underlying surface. If the varnish was removed, we recommend testing our non-residue labels/tape, which feature a less aggressive adhesive.
7. The surface may require a longer cure time. Smooth surfaces usually only require a 1 minute cure. Rough and textured surfaces usually require more cure time. Plastic and powder coated paint usually require more cure time. Apply again and allow the label to cure up to 4 hours. Longer curing (beyond 4 hours) only marginally improves performance.
8. To improve the tamper evident feature on low energy surfaces (such as textured plastics, powder coated paint, etc.), we offer our optional "Affixing Pads", which provide a more compatible surface for our non-residue labels. The affixing pad is positioned on the target surface first. The non-residue label is applied onto the affixing pad. Leave the affixing pads in place for repeated use and replace the non-residue security labels according to your security protocol. The affixing pad is also tamper evident. If removed, it will leave a tamper message (VOID OPENED) as adhesive residue on the surface and in the label film.

If you cannot identify the problem from the above steps, the label selected will not meet your needs. Please contact us for next steps.

1. When removing, to minimize adhesive residue, peel the label at a sharp angle (180 degrees).
2. For some 'high energy surfaces' (like glass, bare stainless steel, etc), the label selected may not be the optimal. See the section "Choosing a Non Residue Label": to confirm your label selection
3. If the label remains on the surface too long, it may leave a residue. Consider changing the label sooner to stay within the recommended time interval.
4. Avoid temperature extremes. If the labels are exposed to extreme temperatures (less than 0°F or over 120°F), they are more likely to leave adhesive residue.
5. Leaving adhesive residue on the surface is more likely if the label is applied to a high energy surface (such as bare stainless steel, PVC plastic, etc.) or is routinely exposed to temperature extremes. In these situations, another alternative is to use our "Affixing Pads", which are an optional companion product for use with our non residue security labels. The affixing pads provide a more compatible surface with our standard security labels and will extend the length of time for non-residue performance. The affixing pad is positioned on the target surface first. The non-residue label is applied onto the affixing pad. Leave the affixing pads in place for repeated use and replace the non-residue security labels according to your security protocol. The affixing pad is also tamper evident. If removed, it will leave a tamper message (VOID OPENED) as adhesive residue on the surface and in the label film.
6. If leaving an adhesive residue is a continuing issue, please give us a call.

1. For some surfaces, if you rub the adhesive residue with your finger, it will roll up into a ball and it can be removed in a few seconds.
2. If the adhesive is more stubborn, you will need an adhesive solvent.
   • We prefer household, citrus-based solvents like "Goo-gone" or "Orange-Sol".
   • Another option is isopropyl alcohol (minimum 90%). After wiping up the adhesive, dry the surface with a clean paper towel.
   • Avoid using rubbing alcohol -- it may leave an oily coating on the surface that will interfere with adhesion for the next label.
   • For safety, avoid using solvents with a low flash point (acetone, gasoline, etc.)

1. If your fingers are dry, they may activate the VOID feature. Apply a small amount of hand moisturizer to your hands and fingers before handling the security stickers.
2. Minimize handling the label. Peel back the paper backing to 'flag' the label and expose the adhesive. Then apply to the surface without touching the adhesive.

Yes, some surfaces are more difficult for the label to bond. This includes textured surfaces and some plastics. We offer "affixing pads", which are a 2"x2" tamper evident label. The adhesive on the affixing pad is thicker and compatible with these difficult surfaces. Simply place the affixing pad on the surface and then apply the security label onto the affixing pad. The affixing pad is also tamper evident so if removed it will leave a tamper message (OPENED VOID) on the surface and in the label film. The affixing pad is a stock product.

We can also make custom labels using this special adhesive. Please give us a call if you need custom labels.