Best Practices for Hose & Pipe Labels: Safety, Standards & Clarity

Introduction

In any industrial facility, clear pipe and hose identification is a convenient and necessary safety requirement. From chemical plants to food processing lines, accurate hose and pipe labelling ensures workers know exactly what substances they’re dealing with and where hazards may arise. At Romark Labels, we work with manufacturers across the UK to deliver durable, compliant labels for pipes, hoses, and cables that hold up in the toughest environments. In this post, we’ll break down the key regulations, common mistakes, and best practices for effective hose and pipe labelling.

Why Hose and Pipe Labelling Matters

Poor or missing labelling can lead to serious accidents, downtime, and regulatory penalties. Pipes often carry hazardous substances, and without proper identification, maintenance crews or emergency responders may take unnecessary risks. Correct labelling makes operations safer, faster, and more efficient — especially in complex facilities with hundreds of lines.

Understanding the Standards: BS 1710 and HSE Guidance

In the UK, BS 1710 provides the framework for pipe identification. It specifies colours and codes for different types of substances, from water and steam to acids and flammable gases. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reinforces this with guidance on where and how labels should be applied.

Key points include:

• Placement: Pipes must be labelled near valves, flanges, service points, and changes of direction.

• Clarity: Labels should be unambiguous and easily visible from a normal working position.

• Durability: Labels must withstand the environment they’re used in — whether that’s outdoor exposure, chemical contact, or heavy abrasion.

  
  

Common Mistakes In Pipe Labelling

Even well-intentioned labelling efforts can fall short. Some of the most common issues include:

• Over-labelling: Too many labels clutter the workspace and reduce clarity.

• Faded or peeling labels: Low-quality materials can fail quickly under heat, UV, or moisture.

• Inconsistent systems: Using different colour codes or fonts across a facility confuses workers.

  

Best Practices for Manufacturers

To get it right, follow these proven practices:

1. Use compliant colour codes and text – align with BS 1710 to avoid ambiguity.

2. Select industrial-grade labels – synthetic materials with strong adhesives resist heat, moisture, and abrasion.

3. Apply labels strategically – at key points like valves, joints, and entry/exit points, but not excessively.

4. Plan for longevity – choose UV-stable and chemical-resistant finishes for outdoor or high-risk environments.

5. Review regularly – include label checks as part of scheduled maintenance to catch issues early.

How Romark Labels Can Help

At Romark, we specialise in industrial-grade pipe and hose labelling solutions that stand up to demanding conditions. Our synthetic labels with solvent acrylic adhesives are designed to bond securely to smooth, round and/or textured surfaces and remain legible for years.

We offer:

• Full compliance with BS 1710 colour coding.

• Custom designs for unique processes or branding.

• Durable finishes for chemical, UV, and abrasion resistance.

• Flexible order quantities, from small runs to large-scale rollouts.

Get Started Today

Whether you’re setting up a new facility or reviewing existing labelling for compliance, Romark Labels can support you with durable, compliant, and custom solutions.

👉 Contact us today to request a free sample pack and see the difference industrial-grade labels can make.

👉 [Request RFID Label Samples or Speak to Our Team] Call us on 02033 846291 or email us at info@romark-labels.com to talk through your project.