Pipe marking can be a tricky project. With multiple sets of standards and no set OSHA regulations, it can be hard to navigate pipe labels. Below we’ve compiled a list of best practices that ensure your pipe marking strategy will be effective.
Ensure the labels are placed for maximum visibility
Pipe labels are only effective if they can be seen! A good rule of thumb is to place labels so they are visible from most people’s line of sight. Workers should be able to see the label from the point of normal approach and labels should be visible from every entry point in the floor or wall. If a pipe is located below the normal line of sight, the label should be placed above the pipe’s horizontal center line. And if a pipe is below the normal line of vision, a label should be put below the pipe’s horizontal centerline.
Choose the right label material
Labels can carry a variety of gases and fluids, so it is important to choose a label material that will withstand an industrial environment. If your pipes are made of nickel or stainless steel, it is important to choose a material, low halide, to avoid corrosion of your pipes. Labeling outdoor pipes will call for an extra durable label material, and a fade-resistant label should be chosen for labels placed in direct sunlight.
Cleaning and caring for labels to maintain them
Pipe markings should be periodically cleaned to keep them visible and readable. Dust, dirt, and grease can often cover labels, so it will be important to clean and care for pipe labels. Whenever possible, place labels in an easy-to-reach spot for cleaning crews as they will be more likely to properly clean them. If labels are often covered in dust or other non-sticky substances, compressed air can work wonders when cleaning.
Identify where the contents of the pipe are going to
Have pipes communicate more than just its contents. On the label include the where the pipe contents are traveling to and include areas to indicate the direction of flow. This extra communication makes the jobs of both workers and emergency responders easier.
Creating custom labels for pipes in house
Pipe marking projects can be completed by ordering pre-made pipe labels from a catalog or online, but your strategy can be improved by creating custom labels in house! Having an industrial label printer in your facility gives you the opportunity to design and produce professional grade labels that are the right fit for your workplace. Not only will you save time by no longer waiting for your order to arrive but creating your own pipe labels will save you a chunk of change in the long run.
Additional Resources
- ANSI Color Codes for Pipe Marking– creativesafetysupply.com
- How to Make Pipe Labels– label-printers.org
- A Guide to ANSI Pipe Marking Standards– pipemarking.info
- Pipe Marking 101: Why is Pipe Marking Important?– infographicsdirectory.org
- Floor Marking for Warehouse Traffic– forkliftsafety101.com
- What is floor marking?– floormarkingpro.com
- How to Remove Floor Marking Tape Without Leaving Residue?– floormarkingtape.org
- Floor Marking Colors for the Workplace– facilityfloortape.com
- Rack Labeling Supplies– safetylabelprinters.com