Answers From An Expert
What does “frangible” mean and what is the benefit of this feature as a label material?
When a label material is frangible it means that when removal of the label is attempted, it will come off in tiny fragments making it a difficult, tedious process. A frangible material requires more effort to remove and in the end, the potential vandal/defacer abandons the effort in frustration. Frangibility does not affect durability.
What are the most durable sign materials?
The most durable sign materials we offer are porcelain and fiberglass. For more information reference the Electromark Blog post, "What are the most durable sign materials?"
How will my tag hold up against the wind and rain?
When most people think of tags they think of paper tags, which of course don’t last. Paper tags mildew, rip and become illegible in the rain. Certain plastic tags may also fail easily. Vinyl for example can embrittle with age, and Tyvek can deteriorate in the weather and blow off. Polyester tags are exceptionally strong and durable, but even polyester tags have limitations in certain environmental conditions. However, polyester or vinyl tags are typically the best options so long as they are matched to the conditions.
Electromark can provide the best recommendation based on our extensive experience with tagging applications. Additionally, Electromark has tag strength enhancing accessories that provide solutions where even the best tag materials cannot provide the durability required of more extreme conditions.
When should I use the Danger or Warning headers?
The correct safety signal word header is specified in the ANSI Z535 standard, and depends on the level of seriousness of the hazard.
- DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which if not avoided will result in death or serious injury, and should be limited to the most extreme situations. The DANGER header should not be used to limit access in order to prevent property damage hazards unless personal injury appropriate to the DANGER level signal word is also involved.
- WARNING indicates a level of hazard which if not avoided could result in death or serious injury. The WARNING header should not be used to limit access in order to prevent property damage hazards unless personal injury appropriate to the WARNING level signal word is also involved.
- The CAUTION header indicates a level of hazard which if not avoided could result in minor or moderate injury.
- The NOTICE header is the preferred signal word to address practices not related to personal injury.
Does my sign need to be ANSI compliant?
ANSI Z535 is a voluntary standard for safety and accident prevention signs and in and of itself does not require compliance. However, most regulations or standards (OSHA and NESC) that pertain to electrical power and other utility service industries incorporate ANSI Z535 by referencing the design or listing it as a requirement within the standard.That it is why although it may not always be demanded, it is best practice to apply ANSI Z535 2011 to your signs, labels and tags.