The ANSI/ASME A13.1 pipe labeling system was created to help employers and employees quickly and effectively identify what materials are flowing through a pipe, and in what direction those materials are flowing. This is important for day to day work activities, as it is always important to understand what you employees are working around, especially if a leak or other piping issue should arise. But it is critically important in the event of a serious emergency, as it can help employees determine which ways they should, and should not, go if there are broken pipes in their way. It also makes the job of first responders and other disaster personnel easier, as they, too, can quickly identify what substances have leaked, or are of potential concern in various parts of your work place. This simple, universal labeling system can save lives, and is of extreme importance to workplace safety.
The system itself is relatively easy to use. It is a color coded system consisting of 10 color schemes. The scheme is the combination of the color of the writing and the color of the background upon which the writing rests. Many of these color schemes have preset meanings, allowing anyone with a knowledge of this system to quickly identify the materials flowing in your pipes. For the few which are allowed to be company specific, it is important to note these schemes in your safety and health management system as well as your emergency action plan, so that they can be conveyed to anybody who needs that information.
The system also identifies the sizes and types of labels required for different sized pipes. The guidelines for the sizes and lettering, as well as the color schemes, changed in 2007. If you have not yet incorporated the ANSI/ASME A13.1 labeling system, or if you have not updated since the 2007 changes, it might be time to do so.
If you would like more information on this labeling system and how it can impact your business, please contact us. And if you have anything to add about ANSI/ASME A13.1, please leave a comment.
