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Pipe Marker Buyer's Guide

Pipe markers play a crucial role in industrial facilities, providing clear identification of pipes and conveying essential information about the contents, direction of flow and potential hazards. Take a closer look at the significance of pipe markers and the standards and regulations associated with them. Then, let us help you decide which pipe markers are best suited for your needs with our handy pipe marker selection guide.

Understanding pipe marking basics

Pipe markers are visual aids used to label pipes, ensuring that employees, emergency responders, and maintenance personnel can quickly and accurately identify the contents of a pipe and understand its purpose. These markers typically display information such as the type of substance flowing through the pipe, the direction of flow, and any potential hazards associated with the contents.

Navigating OSHA and ASME (ANSI) pipe marking standards

OSHA doesn’t specifically outline pipe labeling standards. But it does recommend the ASME (ANSI) A13.1 scheme for identification of pipe systems.

OSHA Regulations

Although OSHA doesn't explicitly mandate pipe labeling, adhering to it is crucial for a safe workplace. Falling under OSHA's General Duty Clause, employers must provide a hazard-free environment. Pipe accidents might trigger citations under this clause. OSHA recognizes the ASME (ANSI) A13.1 standard as a recommended scheme for pipe system identification (1910.261(a)(3)(ii)).

ASME (ANSI) A13.1 Standard

The ASME (ANSI) A13.1 Standard serves as the industry benchmark for pipe marking. It offers comprehensive guidance on pipe system identification, covering text legend, color coding, flow direction arrows, label sizing, and placement. While not a legal OSHA requirement, compliance is widely viewed as best practice, signaling a commitment to workplace safety and regulatory adherence. For a more detailed breakdown of these standards and regulations, check out Seton’s ANSI Pipe Labeling Guide.

Enhancing operations through pipe markers

Unlocking a wide array of benefits, pipe markers play a pivotal role in ensuring a secure and streamlined environment.

Boosting safety

Pipe markers significantly contribute to workplace safety by providing crucial information about the contents of pipes. This helps prevent accidents and ensures that employees are aware of potential hazards.

Ensuring compliance

Adhering to industry standards and regulations is vital. Pipe markers help your facility avoid OSHA fines by adhering to standards such as ANSI/ASME A13.1, which provides guidelines for the identification of pipes conveying specific substances.

Assisting emergency response

In the event of an emergency, clear and accurate identification of pipes is critical. Pipe markers enable emergency responders to quickly assess the situation and take appropriate actions.

Unlocking efficiency in maintenance

Properly labeled pipes streamline maintenance and repair activities. Maintenance personnel can easily identify the pipes they need to work on, reducing downtime and improving overall operational efficiency.
Opti-code® pipemarker logo roll form pipe marker logo Setmark Pipe Marker Logo Ultra-mark Pipemaker logo
Pipe Marker Comparison Opti-code® Pipe Marker Image Roll Form Pipe Marker Setmark Pipe Marker Ultra-Mark Pipe Marker
Material Vinyl Over-Laminated Vinyl Vinyl Over-Laminated Polyester
Material Thickness 0.005 in (0.125mm) 0.005 in (0.125mm) 0.02in (0.51mm)
0.03 in (0.76mm)
0.007 in (0.178 mm)
ANSI/ASME A13.1 Compliant Check Mark*When used with Arrows-On-A-Roll™ Tape Check Mark Check Mark Check Mark
Mounting Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (0.125 MM) Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Coiled
Nylon Ties (included)
Coiled w. Adhesive Strip
Nylon Ties (included)
Application Method Self-Adhesive Back Self-Adhesive Back 8XS-12MD Snap-Around
12LG-32 Strap-Around
8SM-12LG Adhesive Strip
24-32 Strap-Around
Standard / Custom
Background & Text Colors
Color Codes Color Codes Color Codes Color Codes
Fade-Resistant UV Ink Check Mark Check Mark Check Mark Check Mark
Directional Flow Arrows Check Mark*When used with Arrows-On-A-Roll™ Tape Check Mark Check Mark Check Mark
Service Temperatures

-40°F to 180°F
(0°C to 82°C)

-40°F to 248°F
(-40°C to 120°C)

-40°F to 180°F
(-40°C to 82°C)

-40°F to 248°F
(-40°C to 120°C)

Marker Visibility Front Facing Front Facing 360° 360°
Pipe Surface Clean / Dry / Insulated Clean / Dry / Insulated

Clean / Dry / Dirty
Rough / Insulated / Wet
Greasy / Oily

Clean / Dry / Dirty
Rough / Insulated / Wet
Greasy / Oily
Reusability     Check Mark Check Mark
Environmental Application Indoor / Outdoor
(Up to 5 years Outdoor)
Indoor / Outdoor
(Up to 5 years Outdoor)
Indoor / Outdoor
(Up to 8 years Outdoor)
Indoor / Outdoor
(Up to 8 years weather &
humidity resistance)
Chemical Resistance Rub Resistance: Acids / 
Alkalis / Ammonia / Oil
Rub Resistance: Acids / 
Alkalis / Alcohols / Fuels / 
Solvents / Oils / Ammonia
Dip & Rub Resistance: Acids / Alkalis / Alcohols / Fuels /
Solvents / Oils / Ammonia 
7-Day Immersion Resistance:
Acids / Alkalis / Alcohols / Fuels / Solvents / Oils / Ammonia
Recommended Industries Indoor Use / Commercial Facilities Indoor Use / Commercial Facilities Factory / Warehouse / Construction Chemical Process Plants / Oil & Gas Facilities
Customizable Check Mark Check Mark Check Mark Check Mark

Pipe marker buyers guide

Choosing the right pipe marker depends on various factors such as the environment, the type of substance being conveyed, and your specific needs. Seton offers a range of pipe markers to suit different requirements. Plus, when you choose Seton, you get your pipe markers fast, just the way you want them. Choose from a wide variety of preprinted options. Or, fully customize your pipe markers by size, color, legend and more. Find what’s right for you with this handy pipe marker selection guide.

Snap-Around/Wrap-Around Pipe Markers

Ideal for pipes that are already in place, these markers can be easily snapped into position without the need for adhesive or to clean the surface of the pipe before application. Setmark Snap-On Pipe Markers – simply uncoil marker and snap into place without adhesive or bands
  • Snaps over dirty, rusty, wet, oily or rough pipes and provides 360-degree visibility
  • Lightweight coiled plastic can be easily removed and reapplied when needed
  • Directional arrows included on all markers

Self-Adhesive Pipe Markers

Convenient and easy to apply, self-adhesive pipe markers are perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. They adhere securely to pipes, ensuring durability in various environments.

High-Performance Pipe Markers

For challenging environments with harsh conditions, Seton provides high-performance pipe markers designed to withstand extreme temperatures, chemicals and UV exposure.

Ultra-Mark Wraparound Pipe Markers – stick it to tough surfaces in harsh environments

  • Durable polyester plus over-laminate withstands extreme temps and conditions
  • Self-adhesive wraparound style conquers rusty, dirty, wet or rough pipes
  • Arrows included on every marker for flow identification

Custom Pipe Markers

Take advantage of Seton’s custom pipe marker offering, which allows you to specify types, legends, colors, size and material for your unique applications

Pipe markers are everywhere you look

Pipe markers provide a multitude of benefits wherever they’re found. Here are a few applications in key industries.
  • Healthcare Facilities – medical gas pipelines and vacuum lines
  • IT Equipment – data conduits, networking lines and cable pathways
  • Construction – water piping, gas lines and electrical conduits
  • Education – HVAC piping and utility lines
  • Petrochemical – chemical transfer lines, oil pipes and gas distribution lines
  • Government – water supply, steam lines and utilities
  • Manufacturing – processing pipes, cooling water lines and compressed air pipes
  • Warehousing / Logistics – compressed air lines, water supply pipes and hydraulic systems
  • Distribution / Fulfillment – fire suppression pipes and water distribution lines
  • Equipment Rental – fuel lines, hydraulic systems and air compressor lines