ANSI Pipe Labeling and Marking Standards
Brady Corporation
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ANSI Pipe Labeling and Marking Standards: What are OSHA's requirements?
Pipe marking standards are not specifically outlined or defined by OSHA, but standard number 1910.261(a)(3)(ii) notes the ASME's (ANSI) standard A13.1 as the recommended scheme for identification of pipe systems.
The ASME Standard for Pipe Identification is a widely used guideline in determining pipe identification requirements. The ASME A13.1-2015 editorial notes indicate that, "A13.1 is intended to establish a common system to assist in identification of hazardous materials conveyed in piping systems and their hazards when released in the environment." It goes on to identify that this scheme provides pipe system identification recommendations for industrial workplaces, power plants, commercial and institutional installations and buildings used for public assembly.
Pipe Color Code Chart - ANSI/ASME A13.1
Pipe Marker Visibility and Size Requirements
The ANSI standard A13.1 states that, "Markers shall be located so that they are readily visible to plant personnel from the point of normal approach." They need to instantly tell you all you need to know about pipe contents, direction of flow, and whether the contents are hazardous or safe.
What if your pipe or covering outside diameter is less than 3/4 inch or 19 mm?
In cases where it is difficult to label a pipe or covering due to size, we advise using durable and long-lasting energy source or valve tags in place of pipe labels or markers.
Pipe Marker Placement
Now that we know what our pipe labels need to look like and how big they need to be, we need to understand where they go.
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Mark pipes adjacent to all valves and flanges.
Mark pipes at both sides of a wall or floor.
Mark pipes adjacent to change in direction.
Mark pipes every 25 to 50 foot intervals on straight runs
Product Recommendations
Here are our top product recommendations to get you started.
Learn more and read the rest of the article here: https://www.bradyid.com/applications/pipemarking