What Do Ducting Colours Mean? Understanding the electrical systems in our homes involves recognizing the vital role of ducting colours. In the UK, different ducting colours identify various types of cables and ensure safety and compliance with regulations. From red for power cables to purple for motorway services, each hue holds significant meaning. This guide demystifies the colour-coded world of ducting, empowering homeowners to navigate their electrical systems with confidence. Knowing these distinctions enhances safety, aids in troubleshooting, and contributes to a well-maintained home.
Red / Black – Electricity / Power
Firstly, in the world of ducting, red and black play crucial roles in electrical systems. Red ducting marks high-voltage power cables, providing a clear visual indicator of their importance and the hazards they pose. Anyone working near these cables must understand the risks involved. Black ducting, meanwhile, marks standard electrical cables, especially in low-voltage applications. This colour distinguishes everyday wiring from more critical systems, making it easier for homeowners and maintenance personnel to identify and manage their electrical infrastructure safely. Together, red and black ducting improve clarity and safety in any electrical installation.
Orange – Street lighting / Traffic Signals
Secondly, orange ducting marks cables for street lighting installations, powering lighting systems along roads and public areas. This specific colour distinguishes street lighting circuits from other electrical services, such as power supply or communications, ensuring quick identification during maintenance or upgrades. Properly identifying street lighting cables ensures both safety and efficiency, preventing disruptions and keeping lighting functional. For homeowners or those involved in urban development, understanding the role of orange ducting in street lighting helps maintain essential services in the community.
Yellow – Gas
Next, yellow ducting identifies gas services in the UK, signalling the presence of gas pipelines beneath the ground. This colour acts as a critical safety measure, alerting anyone working near the ducting to the presence of gas lines. This reduces the risk of accidental damage or leaks. Whether for natural gas or liquid petroleum gas (LPG), yellow ducting allows easy identification during construction, maintenance, or excavation. For homeowners, spotting yellow ducting around their property highlights the importance of gas safety and the need to approach work near these areas with caution.
Green – CCTV
Green ducting is often used for CCTV installations, marking the cables dedicated to security camera systems. This color helps distinguish the cabling from other utilities, ensuring it’s easily identifiable during installation or maintenance. Properly labelled and organized ducting for CCTV is essential for maintaining clear, uninterrupted video feeds, crucial for home and business security. For property owners, spotting green ducting means recognising the backbone of their surveillance system, ensuring everything is in place to keep an eye on what matters most.
Blue – Water
Blue ducting marks water services, specifically indicating pipes that carry potable (drinking) water. This distinct color helps identify water lines quickly during construction, repairs, or excavation, preventing accidental damage that could interrupt the water supply. It clearly separates water systems from other utilities, such as gas or electrical lines, ensuring safety and efficiency. For homeowners and contractors, spotting blue ducting signals a vital water supply. Prompting proper care and attention during any work near these lines.
Purple – Motorway
Finally, purple ducting houses cables for motorway and highway services, particularly for critical systems like traffic management, lighting, and communication networks. This specific colour distinguishes motorway infrastructure from other utilities, ensuring easy identification during maintenance or upgrades. For contractors and engineers working on roadways, spotting purple ducting signals the presence of essential motorway systems, helping maintain the smooth operation of traffic control and safety features. Properly handling these cables proves crucial for keeping the roads running efficiently and safely.
