ANSI Pipe Marking Specifications
ANSI A13.1 requires that piping have pipe marking labels that effectively communicate the contents of the pipes, along with arrows that indicate the direction of the flow. Hazards such as extreme temperature or pressure must also be identified if they exist.
The ANSI A13.1 and ASME A13.1 pipe marking standards are identical. They separate pipe contents in above-ground piping systems into three categories:
- High-Hazard Materials
- Low-Hazard Materials
- Fire Suppression Materials
The three hazard classes have different color-coded labels associated with them. All high-hazard materials use black characters on a yellow background.
The low-hazard materials are divided into two different color schemes depending on physical state. Liquid materials are labeled using white lettering on a green background, and gaseous materials are labeled using white characters on a blue background.
Labels for fire suppression materials use white letters on a red background.
A label must be placed on a pipe in a manner that makes it easy to read. Labels should be placed 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 at the pipe.
Labels have to be applied on all differing piping segments, including pipes that change direction or pass through walls and floors. They must also be placed at regular intervals on long runs of straight pipe.
You can create your own fully compliant pipe markers using DuraLabel PRO Continuous Vinyl and ribbons with either the DuraLabel PRO or PRO 300 printer. This industrial quality supply comes in all of the colors needed for making pipe markers and is resistant to UV, moisture, chemicals and scratching.
Use DuraLabel vinyl tapes and specialty supplies to label Ammonia piping, Medical Piping, Marine Piping, and all HVAC components. We also carry the materials for making reflective pipe markers.
More information: Pipe Marker Inspections and Maintenance
Carbon Steel Pipe Data Page Information about various sizes of carbon steel pipe.
