What are the Different Types of Industrial Labels?

The needs and requirements of labels differ across different industries. Serving as important tools that help ensure organization, provide instruction, and enhance safety, ensuring labels are utilized and align with industry regulation is a necessity. In this article, we discuss some different forms of industrial labeling and examples of how they are used.

Inventory labeling

To maintain an organized warehouse, an effective labeling system is required. All products should have a barcode label which can be scanned to provide information such as tracking data, manufacturing information, product weight, and price. Using barcode systems is also beneficial for keeping track of stock levels, minimizing the risk of human error and prompting alerts when stock is low. Another type of inventory label that should be utilized is location labels, being attached to storage units and shelving to provide information on what is kept where. This not only helps to identify a product, but maintains organization and consistency within the warehouse so workers can find what they are looking for quickly.

Chemical labeling

Any chemicals or hazardous materials are required by law to contain labels that disclose the associated risks. To prevent incidents and ensure those handling the product know how to do so safely, GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals) labels follow a standardized system that can be widely understood. For any facilities who store potentially infectious materials, such as laboratories or medical facilities, biohazard labels are needed to show that precaution must be taken.

Equipment labeling

To improve safety in the workplace, labels should be adhered to any machinery or equipment to ensure correct use. Clearly visible safety labels must display any potential hazards so operators are aware of the safety precautions needed and can use the appropriate PPE if necessary. For any machinery or equipment which may require more complex handling instructions, labels should display clear guidance so the equipment is used correctly and safely, minimizing the risk of accident.

Compliance labeling

Labels help companies communicate their commitment to regulatory compliance and quality, using symbols and claims that show their cooperation with any necessary industry standards and safety regulations. Labels are important during the quality control stage of manufacturing, indicating that thorough checks have been carried out and the product is fit for sale. As well as complying with industry regulation, these labels also provide customers with peace of mind that the product is suitable for use.

Electrical labeling

Electrical equipment and control panels require clear labeling in industrial settings, aligning with health and safety requirements. Control panels must display labels which detail the function of each switch, button, or control so the operator can access the information they need to operate the panel safely. Similarly, these panels need to also contain circuit diagram labels which enable maintenance personnel or electricians to understand the configuration of the electrics, allowing them to identify the issues and resolve them safely.

Pipe labeling

Pipes and valves need to be labeled for easy identification in industrial settings, assisting maintenance workers and providing safety guidance. The label must clearly state the contents of the pipe so workers can easily see what they are working with and can take any necessary precautions. At each valve, valve tags provide information about their function so maintenance or emergency workers can easily identify the correct valve and control the flow through the pipes.