The safety of any industry depends on many things. Pipe marking is one such standard aimed at ensuring the facility is safe. Markings are mainly used of pipes transporting dangerous chemicals. Pipe marking is governed by a set of regulations or standards to ensure the labels communicate consistent information. Having properly marked pipes also goes a long way in improving efficiency. That said, here are some important facts to know about pipe marking.
Elements of effective pipe markings
How should one mark a pipe? Is there a standard to follow? Ideally, pipe markings should be intentional and consistent with some set pipe marking and labeling standards. Pipe marking can be done in different ways following some set standards. However, any effective pipe marker should have the following elements.
Color coding – Pipe markings should be guided by set color codes. By looking at the color of the marking, anyone should be able to know almost everything about the pipe.
Text – Besides having a color code, texts are also used to ensure everything about the pipe is known. The text should identify the contents of the pipe, temperature, pressure or anything that is believed to present a hazard. The texts used should be read and understood for a distance. This ensures that employees can comfortably get the information they need from a distance.
The direction of flow – This indicates the direction in which the contents of the pipe are flowing.
Benefits of pipe markings
Improved safety
Pipe markings are done to enhance the safety of the employees. Markings should be done in a way that lets your employees accurately and consistently identify the hazards they might face. As such, in the case of an accident, workers will be quick to recognize the nature of the hazards and be prepared to accordingly. They also improve your safety by supporting a hazard communication program.
Increased efficiency
Having properly marked out pipes is a good way of improving the efficiency of your employees. This is made possible considering that they are more confident about their environment. They also do not waste lots of time trying to interpret schematic diagrams as much of information needed is on the pipe. It also helps them move from one task to the other without relying on references.
