Electrical labels are markings used to identify different electrical equipment. This is a necessity and essential for the protection of the workers within the facility. This ensures equipment’s ratings are displayed on the labels. Such ratings include voltage, current wattage, and more of such.
They come in different types, sizes, shapes, colors, and designs. You can also get them easily in the market. Just make sure to buy from reputable manufacturers. The type you choose will always depend on your requirements and type and purpose of application.
Types of Electrical Labels
You can always find a range of labels to choose from. Some of the types can be categorized by their uses and purposes. There are two main categories of electrical labels;
Safety Labels
Just like the name suggests, these are cables used on electrical panels and equipment for warning to prevent any potential hazards. You may also find them in the surrounding environments and typically consist of words like “warning” and other safety symbols and messages.
More often than not, these types of labels come in different colors, and installers like to choose bright colors such as red, orange, and yellow. This is to easily capture attention.
Identification Label
These are also used on electrical panels, wirings, and equipment. They are typically meant to identify different connections, electrical wires, and types of signals used. They may be attached to an electrical distribution network such as disconnects, inverters, breaker panels, and transfer switches.
The labels are to identify power ratings, different components and wiring, and other safety-related information. They are for both; workers doing the installation and for people around the area.
Why do Electrical Panels and Equipment have to be Labeled?
The labeling of electrical panels is a requirement by law and industry regulations. They are also influenced by standardized business procedures. It helps with highlighting the safety measures and informing all those in a building about the information.
Within the local guidelines provided, you can always find detailed information and requirements that consist of all proper usage of electrical labels and tags, and electrical safety measures within a facility.
Some of the electrical components that must be labeled include terminal blocks, disconnect switches, push-button stations, power transfer equipment, emergency system boxes, enclosed circuit breakers, battery racks, contractors and relays, and emergency systems enclosures among others.
Choosing Electrical Labels
When it comes to choosing the type of electrical label you need, you must first tailor your requirements to determine the specific type you need. You want to know whether you need plastic or metal substrates. Materials are a vital factor to ensure safety and proper usage.
Vinyl and polyester labels are some of the most common and best choices when it comes to electrical marking. They have great durability, are easy to read, and are most suitable for multiple applications. If your application needs robust strength and durability, you can then go for metal labels. As such, materials like aluminum are the best options.
Other factors that are important in the choosing of electrical panels labels include the size, types of adhesives, and thickness. These factors should suit your electrical application needs as well as any other additional industry requirements. Colors and graphics can be customized to your needs.
Conclusion
The main reason why electrical panels and components should be labeled is for safety. This is for the installers as well as all the users of a building or facility. With markings of clear information on the electrical components, multiple hazards and accidents have been avoided.
The important thing is to always make sure to assess your requirements first, then buy from a reputable manufacturer, and finally ensure proper usage of the labels.