The APWA (American Public Works Association) has developed and published a uniform color-code for temporarily marking underground utility lines. It encourages all contractors, surveyors and utility providers to use universally color-coded flags, paint, surface markers and underground tapes to promote worker safety, prevent service interruptions and reduce potential damage while working on or near any underground facilities.

The APWA Uniform Color Code uses the safety colors in the American National Standards Institute Standard Z53.1.

• Red – electric power lines, conduit systems and lighting cables
• Yellow – gas, oil, steam, petroleum, gaseous or dangerous materials
• Orange – communications, cable television, alarm or signal lines
• Blue – water, irrigation and slurry lines
• Green – sewer and drain lines
• White – route of proposed subsurface line or excavation
• Purple – reclaimed water
• Pink – temporary site survey markings

Seton offers a wide variety of color-coded underground marking products that meet the APWA color guidelines including Underground Warning Tapes and Marking Flags.

Click here for additional information on the APWA.

Tweet This Post