Leak detection apparatus for blister packs

Apparatus for detecting a leak in one or more pockets of one or more blister packs is described. The apparatus comprises means to support the or each pack, means to apply a reduced pressure around the or each pack so as to cause deflection of at least one side of the or each blister pocket, and a scanner means moveable or stationary in relation to the blister pockets, and a computing means. The scanner means is able to scan across at least one side of the or each blister pocket so as to detect the deflection of that side of the or each blister pocket at a reduced pressure, and the computing means compares scans at different pressures over the or each pocket.The apparatus can detect a leak in any format of blister pocket regardless of the shape of the pocket or whether the contents are tablets or capsules. Preferably, the blister packs are supported on a nest or similar means.The apparatus of the present invention can be of any suitable size, shape and design so as to be able to test one or a number of blister packs simultaneously.