OSHA Pipe Labeling Identification

OSHA does not have wording specifying requirements for pipe labeling. Instead the OSHA standards incorporate the ANSI 13.1 "Scheme for the Identification of Piping Systems" by reference. This is done in paragraph 1910.6(e)(6) and also in 1910.261(a)(3)(ii) which specifically addresses the pulp and paper industry. In effect this makes the ANSI A13.1 pipe marking standard the defacto OSHA pipe labeling requirement.

This means that you will rarely hear people talk about OSHA pipe labeling requirements. Instead you'll hear about the ANSI A13.1 standard, or sometimes the ASME A13.1 standard. ANSI and ASME have adopted the same pipe marking standards, so there is no difference between these two standards.

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Insight into Pipe System Labeling

There are a number of other pipe marking standards for specific applications such as the IIAR standard for ammonia refrigeration piping or the CGA standard for medical gas. The term OSHA pipe marking can be considered to include all of these. OSHA focuses on the results of pipe marking. What they want to see is increased safety. This means that under the OSHA General Duty Clause safety related standards do not need to be specifically referenced by the OSHA code. OSHA can determine that, if there was a known industry standard and an accident could have been prevented if that standard was followed, then an OSHA citation may be issued for violation of that standard.

OSHA pipe marking requirements apply to above ground pipes. A different government agency, PHMSA (Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration), sets the requirements for marking the routes of underground pipelines.

Whether you refer to OSHA pipe labeling requirements or ANSI pipe marking standards, pay attention to your pipe markers. Inspect all piping systems at least once a year to ensure all pipe markers are in place and in good condition. Immediately clean any pipe markers that are obscured by dirt, oil or debris. Replace any missing and unreadable pipe markers.

When you need to make new OSHA pipe labels, think DuraLabel - you'll be getting the only pipe markers that come with a five year warranty. With DuraLabel printers and DuraLabel Premium Continuous Vinyl you get a Five Year Warranty on the pipe markers you make, as well as on any other vinyl labels and signs you make. No other printer supplier offers that kind of warranty. Call DuraLabel today at 1-888-326-9244.