Scope
1.1 This guide provides information for developing accelerated
aging protocols to rapidly determine the effects, if any,
due to the passage of time and environmental effects on the
sterile integrity of packages and the physical properties of their
component packaging materials.
1.2 Information obtained using this guide may be used to
support expiration date claims for medical device packages.
1.3 The accelerated aging guideline addresses the primary
medical package in whole and does not address the package
and product interaction or compatibility that may be required
for new product development. Package and product compatibility
and interactions should be addressed as a material
analysis process before package design.
1.4 Real-time aging protocols are not addressed in this
guide; however, it is essential that real-time aging studies be
performed to confirm the accelerated aging test results using
the same methods of evaluation.
1.5 Methods used for package process validation, which
include the machine process, the effects of the sterilization
process, distribution, handling, and shipping events, are beyond
the scope of this guide.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate
safety and health practices and determi