Ensuring Sanitary Integrity: New 3-A SSI Certification for Seals and Seal Assembly Replacement Parts

Seals, gaskets, o-rings, and seal assemblies are the unsung heroes of hygienic design, but using the wrong replacement part can lead to catastrophic food safety failures.

To address this challenge, 3-A Sanitary Standards, Inc. (3-ASSI) has officially expanded its Replacement Parts and System Components Qualification Certificate (RPSCQC) program to include seals, seal components, and seal assemblies.

Why the RP Mark Matters

The aftermarket for equipment consumables (remove and replace, wearable components) and replacement parts can be a confusing place. Until now, it was often difficult for processors to verify if a third-party or non-original equipment manufacturer seal met the same rigorous standards as the seal provided by the original equipment manufacturer.

The introduction of the RP Mark changes that. As Meri BethWojtaszek, Executive Director of 3-A SSI, explains:

"Processors, regulators, and manufacturers can now rely on a verified source of replacement components that maintain the sanitary integrity of 3-A Symbol-authorized equipment."

The Hidden Risks of Non-Verified Parts

Choosing a seal based solely on price or availability rather than certified design can have serious consequences:

• Cleaning Failures: Parts may not be compatible with CIP or COP design requirements.
• Material Non-Compliance: Materials might leach or degrade when exposed to certain products or chemicals.
• Safety Hazards: Poorly designed seals can create "dead spaces," or voids, behind the seal where bacteria can grow.
• Loss of Regulatory Trust: Inspectors may lose confidence in a system if the components no longer meet 3-A Standards.

What Equipment is Covered?

The RP Mark is available for components supporting a variety of 3-A Sanitary Standards, specifically focusing on equipment with rotary shafts, including:

• 73-01:     Shear Mixers, Mixers, and Agitators
• 35-04:     Blending Equipment
• 00-01:     General Requirements

This expansion joins existing certifications for other critical components like Type 1 and Type 2 hose couplers (62-02) and food-grade hoses, which fall under several 3-A Standards.

How to Verify and Apply

For manufacturers looking to earn the RP Mark for their seals and assemblies, the process involves five key steps:

1. Acquire the Standards: Purchase the relevant 3-A Sanitary Standards from the eStore.
2. Review Requirements: Ensure your design meets the General Requirements and specific equipment standards.
3. Consult the Quick Guide: Review the 3-A SSI applicant overview.
4. Schedule a TPV: Undergo a Third-Party Verification inspection by a Certified Conformance Evaluator (CCE).
5. Submit for Review: Send your TPV report and application to 3-A SSI for final authorization.

Strengthening the Future of Food Safety

By choosing parts that carry the RP Mark, you aren't just buying a seal. You’re investing in the continued safety and efficiency of your entire production line.

For background on the RPSCQC program, see Section B6 of the 3-A SSI Third Party Verification (TPV) Manual.