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Pipe Labeling Resource Center

Pipe marking introduction Color schemes for pipe labeling Which pipes need to be marked? What are the labeling requirements

Are there rules for label placement? Changes in A13.1-2007 standard What pipe marking products are offered? Ammonia Pipe Labeling

Pipe labeling introduction   

Hazardous materials flow through miles of pipes in most industrial, commercial and institutional facilities. Just like hazardous materials in other environments, piping systems need to be properly labeled to make people aware of the hazardous materials they carry. The ANSI/ASME A13.1 program for identification of piping systems addresses this need by offering a common pipe labeling methodology for use in any facility.

Changes in A13.1-2007   

The new A13.1 standard is recommended for all new installations. For facilities with existing labeled pipe installations, it is recommended that you update your old pipe labels for uniform identification. Where updating is not possible, older standards may be continued. Industrial Safety Solutions supports all versions of the A13.1 standards, and with a full lineup of pipe labeling supplies.

Pipe Labeling Colors   

ANSI / ASME A13.1 standards define the proper colors schemes for pipe labeling. The A13.1-1996 standards have recently been replaced by the updated A13.1-2007 standard, though both are still widely used. Both color schemes are referenced below - depending on your company policy, compliance update schedules and existing labeling, you may choose to use either standard.

ANSI / ASME A13.1-1996 Standard
Classification	Sub-Classification	Label Color
Materials Inherently Hazardous	Flammable or Explosive Chemically Active or Toxic Extreme Temperature or Pressure Radioactive	BLACK ON YELLOW
Materials of Inherently Low Hazard	Liquid or Liquid Admixture	WHITE ON GREEN
	Gas or Gaseous Admixture	WHITE ON BLUE
Fire Quenching Materials	Water, Foam, CO2, Halon, etc.	WHITE ON RED

ANSI / ASME A13.1-2007 Standard
Fluid Service	Color Scheme
Fire Quenching Fluids	WHITE ON RED
Toxic and Corrosive Fluids	BLACK ON ORANGE
Flammable Fluids	BLACK ON YELLOW
Combustible Fluids	WHITE ON BROWN
Potable, Cooling, Boiler Feed and other water	WHITE ON GREEN
Compressed Air	WHITE ON BLUE

Which pipes need to be labeled?   

For optimal workplace safety, every above-ground pipe should be labeled. Highly visible or frequently accessed pipes may be the most important to label for day-to-day safety, but difficult to locate or infrequently accessed pipes should be labeled as well. Labeling pipes according to ANSI A13 helps guarantee a safe work environment.

What are the pipe labeling requirements?   

Pipe marking labels must effectively communicate the contents of the pipes and give additional detail if special hazards (such as extreme temperatures or pressures) exist. The legend should be short in length and easy to understand. For example, the legend "Steam 100 PSIG" specifies the contents as well as the additional pressure hazard. An arrow should be used in conjunction with the legend to show which direction the material flows.

The letters on pipe labels should be a minimum of 1/2" high, and should increase in size as the pipe diameter increases. The following table indicates ANSI-recommended letter height for various pipe sizes.

Outside Pipe Diameter (OD)	Letter Height
.75" to 1.25"	.5"
1.5" to 2"	.75"
2.5" to 6"	1.25"
8" to 10"	2.5"
over 10"	3.5"

Are there strict rules for pipe label placement?   

The main thing to remember is that labels should be positioned on the pipes so they can be easily read. Proper label placement is on the lower side of the pipe if the employee has to look up to the pipe, on the upper side of the pipe if the employee has to look down towards the pipe, or directly facing the employee if on the same level as the pipe. Labels should be located near valves, branches, where a change in direction occurs, on entry/re-entry points through walls or floors, and on straight segments with spacing between labels that allows for easy identification.

What pipe labeling products are offered?   

Industrial Safety Solutions offers durable vinyl labeling tape in all the required sizes and colors for ANSI pipe marking. Our pipe labeling printer packages ship complete with software to help you quickly and easily create custom pipe marking labels. We also provide free full-color pipe marking guides.