A system of colour coding is used by the industry to indicate the size (diameter) of poles. As poles are not fully round and also in infinitely varying diameters a pole cannot be classified as diameter 100mm etc.  A system whereby poles are graded into classes has been developed. Thus a pole is measured at its thinnest end on the narrowest diameter (if it is oval) and this diameter is used to classify the pole. See the table below. Eskom (the South African electricity utility company) uses other colour codes for its transmission poles. This is shown in the table for Eskom.

The Omni-Flag is used to colour code poles according to these standards. It could also be used to indicate a quality mark or any other function.

We have various products to mark or identify poles or any other products. Refer to “Pole Marking” and “Product List” for more information or contact us to discuss your specific requirement.

Standard Colour Codes for Poles

Colour Codes for Eskom Transmission Poles

Also see:

• Pole Marking for information about products (including Omni-Flag) to mark poles of various types and sizes.
• Anti-Split Plates for information about products to prevent splitting of pole ends.
• SANS Standards for South African industry standards relating to marking of poles.
• Coverage for information about how to select the most suitable anti-split plate for each type and size pole (standard).

< To SABS Standards