a cheerful office worker feeds a document into a large laminating machine that applies clear plastic film. The machine heats and seals the protective layer around the paper as it moves through rollers. Before entering the machine, the document appears vulnerable and plain. After emerging, the same document now has a shiny, protective plastic coating that makes it waterproof and durable. A customer watches with satisfaction as their important certificate gets permanently protected. documents being covered with thin plastic film for protection