The use of aisle marking tape also known as floor marking tape is essential to the safety and efficiency within a warehouse or work environment. In fact, it is so important that OSHA mandates specific requirements for these tapes, and how they are used and what colors should be used to indicate the type of hazard possible. If you are just starting out with using aisle marking tape, it can be a pretty challenging task, especially if you are unfamiliar with the proper color coding of these tapes. Don’t worry, we are here to help. Let’s review each tape color and how it conveys a specific process or safety message.
Yellow
The use of yellow marking tape indicates “caution.” Any area marked with yellow tape should be proceeded into with caution as it may be a hazardous area. Areas that are often marked with yellow often include aisles and walkways or areas that may harbor potential trip hazards. An easy way to remember what yellow means is to think of it on a stoplight, yellow basically means to slow down and use caution.
Red
Red indicates the potential for “danger” and “to stop.” The bold color of red has often been associated with the word stop especially when taking into consideration the stoplight example. Red on a stoplight means to stop, and thus it means the same with floor marking tape. Red marking tapes can often be found on or around fire protection equipment, sprinklers, stop signs, and near containers of flammable liquids.
Green
Green marking tape often indicates “safety” and “go.” Let’s go back once more to our stop light example, green on a stoplight would mean go and the same goes for floor marking tape. Green is usually a safe color that employees can associate directly with protection. The color green is often used on or around eye washing stations, safety information and equipment, as well as first aid supplies.
Orange
The color orange means “warning.” The color orange can often be found on and around different types of machinery, energized equipment or exposed parts which may cause potential injury.
Blue
When you see the color blue, think the word “information.” Blue is often used for informational purposes and does not usually signify any sort or hazardous condition.
Tapes Featuring Stripes, Patterns, or Contrasting Colors
When you see any sort of stripes, patterns or contrasting colors it generally means “Attention.” Attention is really a universal term that can also indicate alertness. Potential areas featuring this sort of tape may include hazardous materials, electrical panels, or areas of special concern.
Make Aisle Marking Tapes Part of your Safety Plan
The reality is that we want our factories, warehouses, and worksites to be as productive and safe as possible and the use of aisle marking tapes can help assist with that task. However, in order to make aisle markings effective, employees need to understand the meaning behind each color so they can proceed accordingly when aisle markings are present. All employees should be trained on the color coding system of aisle markings to help ensure optimal safety.