There is essentially a single major set of standards that are utilized in virtually every location when it comes to pipe markings in the workplace. OSHA recommends this set of standards, which were developed by ANSI/ASME. Although the standards are relatively stable in comparison to many other areas, they are updated as necessary in response to modifications in pipe-related technologies or systems.
You’ll be better able to plan out your overall pipe marking strategy if you know about the various ANSI/ASME standards.
Basics of Pipe Marking
Pipes can put people and facilities in danger if no one knows what is flowing through them. To this effect, Pipe labels make it easier to get important information where it’s most needed to keep everyone safe. All kinds of facilities can benefit from a comprehensive system for marking pipes to support safety programs.
Purpose Of Pipe Marking
The purpose of pipe marking is to convey the contents of the pipes and provide crucial information in the event that particular dangers, such as extreme pressure or temperatures, exist.
In order to respond to problems more quickly and safely, maintenance and emergency personnel need to be able to quickly and easily identify the contents of pipes using pipe labels. The type and location of your facility will determine which pipe marking labels you choose. Additional legal requirements will apply to some sectors and regions.
How Can I Read A Pipe Mark?
Any number of identifying labels applied to sections of a pipe during manufacturing or use can be referred to as “pipe markings.” Depending on the type of hardware and construction material, manufacturers mark their pipes and connectors with important information like size and length specifications. These markings are regularly made as alpha-numeric characters and are said to be industrial safety labels that are drawn or carved straightforwardly onto the line. During the building of new facilities, engineers and contractors can use this information to their advantage.
Labeling that is applied following installation to identify the contents of any piping section in a facility can also be referred to as “pipe marks.” Before you can read a label correctly, it’s important to know what the facility’s compliance regulations are. Some facilities may choose to implement additional voluntary labeling practices in addition to any standards that are required.
According to ANSI/ASME A13.1, a pipe marker’s primary visual indicator will be its colour. The colour is important because it indicates the type of material that is transported through the pipe, such as fire-fighting, toxic, or flammable materials. On the label, bold text will describe the specific material after this. The direction of the flow should also be indicated by an arrow, and additional information regarding temperature or pressure may also be visible. Together, these details provide the reader with a clear and concise summary of the contents of the pipe.
A Quick View at the Pipe Colours
ASME/ANSI A13.1 characterizes the shading of pipe markers in an outline that incorporates the accompanying assignments. The colour of any piping line should be determined by the most hazardous component for the purpose of hazard classification.
- Red (white text) stands for fire-quenching substances
- Orange (black text) stands for toxic and corrosive materials
- Yellow (black text) stands for flammable or oxidizing fluids and gases
- Brown (white text) stands for combustible fluids and gases
- Blue (white text) stands for compressed air
- Purple (white text) stands for user-defined.
