scope:

This standard sets forth requirements for the design, application, and use of safety tags and barricade tapes for temporary hazards. They shall be used only until the identified hazard is eliminated, or the hazardous operation is completed. For example, a safety tag would be appropriate for use during lockout/ tag-out procedures or on a damaged tool until it can be properly removed from the work area. Barricade tape would be suitable to mark an area affected by a chemical spill or an open and temporary trench.

Safety tags or barricade tapes shall not be used in place of a permanent sign or label intended for hazards in normal use, operation, or maintenance. However, if a permanent sign or label is presented in a tag configuration or a hang tag is used to supplement a permanent safety sign, the safety tag should comply with the provisions of ANSI Z535.2-2022 or ANSI Z535.4-2022.

While this standard addresses safety tags and barricade tapes for temporary hazards, other tags or tape types are not addressed by this standard. For example, underground tapes, permanent tapes, striped tapes, and non-skid tapes are not covered by this standard.

Purpose

The purpose of this standard is:

a. to establish a uniform and consistent visual layout for safety tags and barricade tapes;

b. to minimize the proliferation of designs for safety tags and barricade tapes; and

c. to establish a national uniform system for safety tags and barricade tapes that communicate safety information.

Existing Standards and Regulations

There are a number of existing standards that are recognized for particular industries or specific uses. Compliance with these standards may be considered for the particular industry or use. It is not the intent of ANSI Z535.5 to replace existing standards or regulations that are uniquely applicable to a specific industry or use. It is the intent to encourage adoption of this standard in subsequent revisions of other standards and regulations.

Exceptions

Requirements contained in federal, state, or municipal regulations, or applied by an Authority Having Jurisdiction, can supersede this standard. However, requirements in this standard may be considered when they do not conflict with those regulations or Authorities.