How should emergency shutoff valves be marked?

Emergency shutoff valves should be marked with a durable sign clearly visible near the valve to ensure that personnel can easily locate and identify them in an emergency situation. This visibility is crucial, as emergencies often require immediate action, and any delay in locating these critical control points could compromise safety or response time. The sign should clearly indicate the purpose of the valve and any important instructions related to its operation, which aids in quick decision-making during emergencies.

While other methods, such as color coding the valve or using flashing lights, might enhance visibility, they can sometimes fall short in providing clear, immediate recognition of the valve's function. Stickers placed on walls lack the direct association with the valve itself, which could lead to confusion or misdirection in urgent scenarios. Therefore, marking emergency shutoff valves with a durable and clearly visible sign remains the most effective and practical approach.