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.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.Opti-Code® Pipe Markers
Low cost, easy to apply and ANSI compliant
- High-gloss vinyl is durable indoors or out
- Back-slit liner eliminates pinching corners
- Built for ANSI color, length and height specifications
Shop Opti-Code® Pipe Markers
Markers-on a Roll-Tape
Take your pipe markers to go with convenient rolls
- Self-adhesive wraparound style with directional flow arrows
- Perforated every four lines of text
- Scored for easy peel-off without rips or cuts
Shop Markers-on-a-Roll Tape
Pipe Banding Tape
Reinforce pipe marker staying power
- Give added adhesive support to pipe markers on wet, oily or rough surfaces
- Ensure markers that encounter spray-downs, continuous airflow or windy conditions stay down
Shop Pipe Banding Tape
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