Several important elements must be incorporated into the design and placement of electrical panel labels to effectively communicate hazards. Image courtesy of Graphic Products
By: Henri Verdin, Contributor
Electrical panels are essential components of every facility’s infrastructure and serve as control points for electrical circuits. They also pose significant risks if handled or maintained incorrectly. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) found these shocking numbers related to electrical hazards:
400 injuries due to high voltage electricity annually 30 thousand non-fatal shock accidents annually 1000 deaths annually
Keeping electrical panels safe is an important part of any workplace safety program, and one of the most effective ways to mitigate risks is through clear, consistent visual communication. Labels play a critical role in warning workers of electrical hazards and providing information vital for safe operation.
This article explores how to enhance the safety of electrical panels using appropriate labels, compliance with safety standards, and the specific visual communication elements that make labels effective in reducing risks.
Risks of incorrectly labeled electrical panels
Unmarked or poorly marked electrical panels pose many dangers. Workers who lack the information necessary to assess the risks of working near or on electrical panels are exposed to potential electrical shocks, burns, or even fatal electrocution. Many electrical panels look the same, so without clear labels, workers may accidentally access or work on live equipment.
The essential elements of effective electrical panel labels
Accurate labeling of electrical panels requires more than just a generic warning label. Several important elements must be incorporated into the design and placement of electrical panel labels to effectively communicate hazards.
Color coding
Color is one of the basic and effective elements in electrical safety marking. OSHA and ANSI have defined color standards for safety signs, making it easier to quickly convey hazard levels.
Red flags indicate immediate danger, usually associated with high voltage hazards or arc flash.
Yellow signs indicate caution, warning workers of potential hazards.
Green labels are often used for educational labels, to provide information about safe operation.
By maintaining consistent color schemes throughout the facility, workers can immediately understand what type of hazards they face.
Text clarity
Text on electrical panel labels should be clear, concise, and easy to read. Big, bold fonts are essential, especially in environments where visibility may be compromised, such as in dimly lit areas or outdoor facilities.
A label that reads “DANGER: HIGH VOLTAGE – STAY AWAY” in large, bold letters can prevent workers from inadvertently opening a panel containing live electrical parts. In contrast, labels that contain small text or technical terms may confuse workers or go unnoticed.
Illustrations and symbols
Pictograms provide a universal form of communication that can be understood regardless of language. ANSI Z535 specifies standard symbols for electrical hazards, which must be included on labels.
Symbols such as a lightning bolt indicating a risk of electrical shock or an arc flash symbol indicating a high-energy electrical discharge are instantly recognizable and help reinforce the written message.
Location and durability
Labels should be placed in prominent, easily visible locations on electrical panels. The sticker should be placed near the danger area, whether that is on the panel door or next to the main ignition switch.
The durability of the label is another consideration. Electrical panels are often exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity, chemicals, or direct sunlight. For this reason, labels must be made of durable, weather-resistant materials that can withstand harsh conditions and remain legible over time.
Comply with electrical labeling standards
Following the correct electrical labeling standards is not just a safety issue – it is a legal requirement. Several major regulations specify how to report electrical hazards in the workplace, including OSHA standards, NFPA 70E, and NEC guidelines.
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires labeling of electrical panels and other hazardous equipment to protect worker safety. OSHA regulations state that electrical equipment must be clearly labeled with warning signs, including any risk of electric shock or high voltage exposure.
NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace)
NFPA 70E provides detailed requirements for labeling electrical hazards, including specific guidelines for arc flash labeling. Arc flash labels should indicate potential hazards, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and other vital information needed to protect workers.
NEC (National Electrical Code)
The NEC requires compliant labeling on electrical panels, especially for high-voltage equipment. Labels must provide adequate warning about potential hazards to workers and include clear instructions for safe operation.
By complying with these regulations, facilities not only keep their employees safe, but also avoid potential fines and legal liability.
Types of electrical panel safety stickers
Different types of labels are necessary to cover the different risks associated with electrical panels. These classifications help workers understand the specific risks posed by the panel they are working on.
Warning labels
Warning labels alert workers to the general dangers of working with electrical panels. Common warnings include “High voltage,” “Hazard of electric shock,” or “Do not open while device is energized.” These labels often use orange for the background and bold text to quickly grab attention.
Text on electrical panel labels should be clear, concise and easy to read, and a warning label with an orange background and bold text quickly grabs attention. Image courtesy of Graphic Products
Arc flash labels
Arc flash labels highlight equipment capable of releasing dangerous energy during an electrical fault. These labels provide specific details about arc flash limits, incident energy levels, and personal protective equipment required to work safely in the area.
A typical arc flash label might read: “WARNING: ARC FLASH HAZARD – Personal protective equipment required: face shield, gloves, protective clothing. Incident energy: 8 cal/cm². This provides workers with all the information needed to prevent serious injuries during a flash incident Sagittarius.
Lockout/Tagout Labels
Lockout/tagout procedures are critical during maintenance to ensure electrical panels are completely de-energized before any work is done. Lock/tag stickers visually indicate not to operate the machine until maintenance is complete. These labels often include a place for the worker’s name and the closing date.
Educational labels
Instructional labels provide instructions for the safe operation of electrical panels. These labels can include step-by-step instructions for safely shutting down, isolating, or restarting the panel.
Benefits of properly labeled electrical panels
Clear and consistent labeling of electrical panels provides many benefits, especially in maintaining safety and compliance.
Regulatory Compliance: Proper labeling ensures your facility meets OSHA, NFPA 70E and NEC standards, avoiding costly fines or improving legal worker safety: Proper labeling helps workers identify hazards and take necessary precautions, reducing the risk of electrical accidents. Faster Emergency Response: In the event of an emergency, clearly marked signs make it easier for first responders and facility staff to quickly assess the situation and take appropriate action. Reduce maintenance risks: Maintenance teams can perform tasks more efficiently and safely when panels are clearly marked with lock/out instructions or power supply details.
Print banners and posters with an industrial banner and label printer
Using an industrial sign and label printer in your facility simplifies the process of creating custom, durable labels for electrical panels. These printers provide on-demand production of high-quality labels that help ensure compliance with safety standards and reduce risks in electrical work environments.
Designed to withstand harsh conditions, they provide a cost-effective in-house solution for producing clear, long-lasting labels. With features like high-resolution printing, a range of material options and a user-friendly design, these printers are essential for enhancing safety and efficiency in electrical panel management.
Close the circuit on the safety of the electrical panel
The safety of electrical panels is essential in any workplace, and proper labeling is a key element in preventing accidents and maintaining compliance with safety standards. By applying clear, permanent, and compliant labels, facilities can significantly reduce the risk of electrical accidents, improve worker safety, and enhance overall operational efficiency. If your facility has outdated or unclear electrical panel labels, it may be time to evaluate and update them to meet current standards and protect your team.
About the author
Henry Verdin is a safety specialist at Graphic Products based in Portland, Oregon. Graphic Products is a world leader in facility safety labeling and signage. Read more about visual communications and safety at www.duralabel.com/resources.
