ANSI Safety Tags and Tapes

OSHA Tag-Out Tag Requirements

OSHA 1910.147 and 1910.269  requires equipment that cannot be physically locked out  have a tag to alert "affected employees" that the equipment is tagged out and should not be used. Tags are also used to alert employees of damaged tools or machines until they can be repaired or removed. Barricade tapes may be used to mark an area affected by a chemical spill or a temporary open trench. Safety tags or barricade tapes should not be used in place of a permanent sign or label intended for hazards during normal operations. OSHA prohibits the reuse of tag-out tags. Safety tags and barricade tapes are temporary hazards.

Tag Location

Safety tags for tagging out equipment should be placed where the lockout device would have been used. When using a tag, it should be fixed as close as possible to the respective hazards or at the operating mechanisms that would activate the hazards. Tags must be clearly visible to the user. Any other tags located on the machine should not distract the user from the safety tag.

Tags should be fastened with a nylon tie wrap, string, wire, adhesive, or another method that would prevent accidental removal or loss. Tag-out tags should be attached by a nylon zip tie. Material for safety tags should be strong enough to prevent accidental removal. OSHA requires the nylon cable to have a pull strength of 50lbs minimum. 

Barricade Tape Application

Tapes should be placed in viewable locations around the hazard in sufficient time to prevent additional hazardous situations.

Tags and Barricade Tape Formats

Tags and barricade tapes need to be formatted effectively to alert employees and affected people of potential hazards. Some of the formats to consider include: 

• Message Panel Color
• Lettering Format
• Tag Borders
• Tag Layout Designs
• Barricade Tape Layouts
• Multi-Lingual Tape and Sign Layouts

*Underground tapes, permanent tapes, striped tapes, and non-skid tapes are not covered by ANSI Z535.4.

The Electromark ANSI Reference Guide is designed to be a current, authoritative source regarding the ANSI Z535-2011 Safety Sign Standard and every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the text, symbols, and illustrations. However, Electromark makes no guarantee, warranty, or representation that this compilation is accurate, complete, or without errors.