In mining environments, flagging tape (also known as “survey tape” or “ribbon”) is a critical low-tech communication tool used to convey safety warnings, directional data, and operational boundaries. Because mine sites are often loud or dark, these visual cues are standardized to ensure everyone stays safe.
Best Practices for Using Flagging
Labeling: In many modern mines, workers use a permanent marker to write the date, time, and name of the person who hung the flagging directly on the ribbon.
High Visibility: Always use fluorescent or “Global” colors that can be easily picked up by a cap lamp beam in low-light conditions.
Knot Security: In high-ventilation areas (windy shafts), ensure flags are double-knotted to prevent them from blowing away and becoming litter or a mechanical hazard.
Removal: Once a hazard is cleared or a survey is complete, flagging should be removed immediately to prevent “signage fatigue” (where workers start ignoring old, irrelevant flags).