Poison Tag

Poison Tag for Flagging Toxic Substances and Equipment

The Poison Tag is a punched hang-tag used aboard ships and in port and terminal facilities to flag containers, equipment, or storage areas that hold or have been exposed to toxic or poisonous substances. Poisons can cause severe illness, organ damage, or death through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, so clear point-of-use warning is essential wherever these substances are handled, stored, or transferred.

When to Use This Tag

Attach the Poison Tag directly to drums, containers, valves, pipework, or storage cabinets holding toxic chemicals, pesticides, or biocides, and to equipment that has been contaminated by a spill or leak and is awaiting cleaning or inspection. It is also used during maintenance and lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures to warn personnel that a line, tank, or container contains, or previously contained, a poisonous substance before they open, drain, or work on it.

Design and Materials

Each tag features the standard hazard warning triangle with a skull-and-crossbones pictogram above a bold “POISON” panel, printed on fire-retardant, photoluminescent laminated card stock a long-duration afterglow. This ensures the warning remains visible during power loss or in poorly lit compartments such as chemical stores, engine rooms, and cargo holds. The card is waterproof and resistant to saltwater exposure, making it suitable for prolonged use in marine and offshore environments. A reinforced punched hole at the top allows the tag to be secured with a cable tie or wire loop.

Installation and Use

Loop a cable tie or wire tie through the punched hole and secure the tag directly to the affected container, valve, or equipment, ensuring the warning panel faces outward and remains clearly legible. The “Authorised by” and “Date” fields at the base of the tag should be completed by the person applying it, providing a simple accountability record consistent with standard lockout/tagout documentation practices. Because the tag is a physical hang-tag rather than an adhesive label, it can be quickly attached, removed, or transferred between items as required without leaving residue or damaging equipment surfaces.

Compliance and Standards

The tag’s pictogram and signal word follow internationally recognised hazard communication conventions used across the maritime and industrial safety sectors, aligning with IMO Resolution A.1116(30) guidance on shipboard signage and supporting broader workplace chemical safety obligations such as those set out by Safe Work Australia. Vessel operators should confirm the tag meets any flag-state or class-specific requirements applicable to their chemical safety management system.

Ordering Information

This Poison Tag is supplied under IMPA code 33.2510 and ISSA code 47.525.10, sized 150x75mm. It forms part of Safety Sign Hub’s full Tie Tags range, which covers the complete set of lockout/tagout and hazard-identification tags used across marine vessels, offshore installations, and port facilities. Contact Safety Sign Hub for bulk ordering or custom tag requirements.