Pipe Marking standards – ANSI compliant

The use of a piping system is a common phenomenon within industrial facilities. These pipes can sometimes carry dangerous substances. It is for this reason that they should be well labelled so that people know exactly what kind of substances they carry in them.  A pipe label designates potential hazards carried, direction of flow, and also provides preventive measures.   As an employer you want to make sure that you use the correct standards and requirements.

Most importantly, the hazards do not just have a harmful effect on the employee who handles them, but also in many cases the effects can also impact the environment.  Many times the spills or leaks flow into the soil and water or are absorbed in the atmosphere and may even come in contact with wildlife.

In order for you to take care of these kinds of situations, you first need to understand the Pipe Marking Guide that is in place.

Pipe marking standards

There are different kinds of markings that can be used in the event of marking pipes. You must ensure that you use the right pipe label for the right pipe depending on the meaning attached and the contents within the pipe.  Considerations of the markings include:

ANSI A13.1 pipe marking – this is a marking which applies to many facilities such as an oil refinery or even a gourmet restaurant.

Ammonia pipe marking (IIAR) – this is a standard that is established by international institute for ammonia refrigeration. The marking applies to ammonia pipes which are used in refrigeration and cooling systems.  The same standard has been adopted by other facilities using ammonia pipes for other applications.  Learn more about the IIAR ammonia piping color code.

Medical gas pipe marking (CGA) – this is a standard marking which applies to medical gasses that are used in hospitals as well as other medical facilities. ANSI A13.1 standard basically applies to non-medical gas pipes in the facilities.  This kind of marking is very essential since danger is often imposed if it is to be misinterpreted; there are severe consequences that can arise if even a slight mistake were to happen.

HVAC pipe marking – this is a standard that applies to heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipments commonly referred to as HVAC.

Marine pipe marking – this uses international standard ISO 1476-2 which defines the design of the pipe and colour of the pipe markers that are used on ships.

Facility pipe marking – this is used in commercial, school, retail and public buildings.

Code Compliant pipe marking – you have to fully understand the code or rule of thumb which guide these kind of markings. This is particularly true during inspection and installation of pipe markers.  Each region has its own appropriate label that needs to be used for safe working environment; however the only difference here is in the codes that are used. For instance, the British pipe marking standards require that employers properly mark visible pipes at the workplace containing or even transporting dangerous substances.  The appropriate colors to be used, conduits or ducts which follow British standard – BS 1710. Even in the aisles, the aisles marking should be visible and done appropriately.  There are many ways of ensuring that this is done effectively, choose the best equipment for marking the pipes in your work environment.

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