Under which scenario is it acceptable to open a hermetically sealed container during inspection?

• A. Never opened
• B. When the item TO specifically directs containers be opened
• C. If the container looks fine externally
• D. When the shipper requests it

Answer: (B)

In inspection practice, you only open a hermetically sealed container when the technical order specifically directs that containers may be opened. The seal is there to preserve the integrity of the contents and the accuracy of the inspection, as well as to maintain safety and regulatory compliance. If the TO says to open, doing so is part of the approved procedure and ensures you can verify quantities, labeling, or other required details without compromising the process.

Opening simply because the container looks fine externally isn’t reliable, since external appearance doesn’t guarantee internal condition or proper labeling, and some issues aren’t detectable from the outside. A shipper’s request to open also isn’t sufficient on its own; permissions must come from the TO or authorized procedures to maintain control and traceability.