For complete information a copy of BS1710:1984 can obtained from BSI direct.

The guidelines below list the common identification needs and banding formats together with the applicable BS4800 colours.

Pipelines in factories and other buildings should be clearly and effectively identified:

• to help simplify maintenance or emergency repairs
• to help ensure safety

BS1710:1984 Identification of Pipelines and Services advises to standard code for pipe colours consisting of:

• basic identification colours for contents of pipes
• optional colour code indications for general building services

In addition, certain colours are used for specific safety purposes.

Basic identification colours may be painted over the whole pipe length; or, where pipes are generally painted with other colours for decorative reasons, the Basic Colour should be painted in approximately 150mm wide bands either side of 100mm wide Code Indication band(s) at points where easy identification is essential.

The brighter identification colours may not obliterate dark colours completely. In these cases, a first coat of white gloss or undercoat is recommended to ensure maximum clarity of colour.