01/02/2026
International pipe color coding
Standards (ANSI/ASME A13.1, ISO 14726) in the oil and gas industry are mandatory for quick identification of pipe contents to ensure workplace safety, prevent accidents, and simplify operations.
The main colors are: Yellow (flammable gases/liquids), Red (fire extinguishers), and Blue (clean air/water).
Standard Piping Color Code for the Oil and Gas Industry (ANSI/ASME A13.1 & ISO 14726):
Yellow: Hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or gases.
Red: Fire protection.
Green: Water, potable water, or non-hazardous materials.
Blue: Compressed air, fresh water.
Orange: Corrosive or toxic materials.
Brown: Liquid fuels/oil.
White/Gray: Steam or air systems.
Importance for Occupational Safety and Operational Systems:
Occupational Safety: Allows workers to immediately identify risks in pipe contents, especially during emergencies or maintenance, reducing the risk of exposure to hazardous substances.
Operational Efficiency: Speeds up inspection, repair, and line identification in the event of leaks or technical problems.
Standards Compliance: Follows international regulations, preventing fatal errors due to misidentification of lines.
The API 5L standard is often used for physical pipe specifications, while coloring follows ANSI/ASME for field safety.