This standard provides guidance for the design and use of accident prevention tags. Safety tags and barricade tape shall be used to identify a temporary hazard. They shall be used only until such time as the identified hazard is eliminated or the hazardous operation is completed. Some examples when a safety tag would be appropriate include during lockout/tagout procedures, or on a damaged tool until the tool can be properly removed from the work area. Barricade tape may be appropriate for such things as chemical spills or temporary trenches. A tag or tape shall not be used in place of a permanent sign or label intended for hazards in normal use, operation, or maintenance.
The following editions have been incorporated by reference (IBR) into the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR):
| IBR approved for | Overview of requirements | IBR approved edition |
|---|---|---|
| 29 CFR 1926.200(h)(2) | Employers must ensure accident prevention tags follow specifications that are similar to those in Figures 1 to 4 of ANSI Z35.2-1968 or Figures 1 to 8 of ANSI Z535.5-2011. | ANSI Z35.2-1968 Specifications for Accident Prevention Tags, and ANSI Z535.5-2011, American National Standard for Safety Tags and Barricade Tapes (for Temporary Hazards). |
| 29 CFR 1926.200(i) | Employer must comply with ANSI ANSI Z35.2-1968 or Z535.5-2011, with respect to accident prevention tags. | ANSI Z35.2-1968 Specifications for Accident Prevention Tags, and ANSI Z535.5-2011, American National Standard for Safety Tags and Barricade Tapes (for Temporary Hazards). |
Also, the OSHA shipyard regulation 29 CFR 1915.91, the Accident Prevention Signs and Tags Standard, says the requirements of 1915.91 are identical to the requirements set forth at 29 CFR 1910.145. Therefore, the shipyard industry regulation at 1915.91 is also related.
Standards are available for purchase from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), see webstore.ansi.org, and from the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), see www.nema.org.