Proactive Pipe Marking
Pipe marking is an important part of labeling programs in every facility. Labels are important in the quick identification of pipe contents. Unmarked pipes are a hazard and can be a danger to life and property. Proper labeling can prevent costly accidents and can protect employee personal health and well being and can protect your company's financial health and well being.
Facilities have miles of piping systems that may fall under the requirements for pipe marking. It is important to regularly check your existing pipe markers and note if any are damaged, dirty, discolored, or deteriorating. Many pipe labels are exposed to chemicals or subject to severe weather conditions so it is important to check them often for damage. Damaged labels may be hard to read, making them ineffective. Missing labels are often difficult to replace. Failure to have required labeling may result in expensive fines. Being proactive now prevents accidents and costly expenses later.
The correct identifying information and the right color of marker need to be used for labeling pipes. Properly identified pipes reduce the potential for mistakes during regular maintenance or in emergency situations. Damaged labels should be replaced immediately. Outdated information should updated regularly. Always confirm flow direction arrows are in place. Replace deteriorating arrows promptly. If flow direction arrows are missing, expensive shutdowns may be needed to be able to identify flow direction in an emergency.
When installing or replacing pipe labels, specific labeling needs should be considered. If there are harsh environments or extreme hot or cold temperatures, special labeling materials may need to be used. Exposure to corrosive chemicals or highly abrasive conditions require special labeling materials so that the labels last longer and stay easy to read. Special lighting conditions may required reflective materials. In strong sunlight conditions it may be beneficial to use UV resistant vinyl.
Choosing the best material available for your facility's specific pipe labeling conditions is vital. Choose a permanent adhesive that will ensure long-lasting vinyl safety labels, no matter where you need to put them. Choose high durability vinyl labels that are UV resistant, scratch resistant, chemical resistant and appropriate for labeling in harsh environments. Find a heavy-duty laminate that is available for extreme conditions. We can help you with specially formulated low temperature labeling tapes which are ideal for labeling in frozen or near freezing environments.