Barricade Tape: Types, Uses, and OSHA Color Standards Explained

Quick Answer: Barricade tape is a non-adhesive, brightly colored safety tape used to restrict access or alert people to hazardous areas. It follows OSHA and ANSI standards for color and wording—such as yellow \"Caution\" tape for minor hazards and red \"Danger\" tape for serious risks. It’s a critical part of any crowd control or safety zone setup.

What is Barricade Tape?

Barricade tape—also known as warning tape, caution tape, or safety tape—is a brightly colored ribbon used to block off or warn about hazardous or restricted areas. Unlike adhesive tape, it’s non-sticky and is typically tied to cones, poles, fences, or other anchor points.

It’s commonly found in construction sites, utility work areas, emergency scenes, and industrial facilities. Whether you’re trying to keep people out of a dangerous zone or guide them away from a work area, barricade tape sends a clear visual signal.

Different Types of Barricade Tape

  • Caution Tape (Yellow): Used for low to moderate hazards, often with the word “CAUTION.”
  • Danger Tape (Red): Indicates high-risk areas—“DANGER” means do not enter.
  • Police/Fire Line Tape (Blue or Red): Specific to law enforcement or fire scenes.
  • Bilingual Tape: English/Spanish options improve safety in diverse workplaces.
  • Custom Printed Tape: Allows companies to include logos or specific warnings.

OSHA and ANSI Color Coding Guidelines

OSHA has clear regulations under OSHA 1910.144 about color usage:

  • Red: Danger zones, fire hazards, flammable materials
  • Yellow: Caution, tripping/slipping hazards, unsafe conditions
  • Orange: Warning (often for energized equipment)
  • Blue/Green: Information, directions, or non-hazardous situations

The ANSI Z535 standard supplements this by recommending font size, visibility, and message clarity.

Common Use Cases

You’ll find barricade tape used in:

  • Construction Zones: Keeping workers and the public safe from tools, heavy equipment, and open pits.
  • Utilities Work: Marking underground work, overhead lines, or road repairs.
  • Events & Crowds: Directing pedestrian flow or restricting access.
  • Hazmat Situations: Isolating chemical spills or biological hazards.

Choosing the Right Tape for the Job

Here’s what to consider when selecting your tape:

  • Message: “CAUTION,” “DANGER,” or a custom message?
  • Color: Does it comply with OSHA standards for the risk level?
  • Material: Weather-resistant polyethylene is best for outdoor use.
  • Length/Width: Standard rolls range from 300 to 1,000 feet, with widths from 2 to 6 inches.
  • Visibility: High-contrast black text on a bright background is most effective.

Where to Buy OSHA-Compliant Barricade Tape

Looking for trusted options that meet safety regulations? eDisasterSystems has you covered. Browse:

We offer high-visibility, OSHA-compliant, and bilingual tape to ensure everyone on-site stays safe and informed.

Final Thoughts

Barricade tape may seem simple, but it's one of the most effective tools for keeping worksites safe. By choosing the right tape and following OSHA color standards, you help prevent accidents, protect employees, and ensure compliance.

Always assess your hazard level before selecting tape and make sure it remains intact and visible throughout the duration of use.


About the Author

Mick Chan has been in the Safety Supplies industry for over 15 years. As a seasoned expert in OSHA compliance and safety product procurement, Mick brings practical insight to help businesses meet workplace safety standards with confidence. He graduated from Cal State LA in 2013 with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and was born and raised in the San Gabriel Valley, a suburb of Los Angeles, California.