
Why You Should Use Directional-Flow Tapes for Social Distancing
In the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and other similar crises, one of the greatest defensive weapons is social distancing. This preventative strategy allows public figures and private citizens to help stop the spread of pathogens, reducing the number of affected people and, consequently, the strain on the healthcare system. While social isolation (i.e., completely separating oneself from others) would likely be more effective than social distancing at minimizing or eliminating transmission rates, it is not a sustainable solution since day-to-day activities (e.g., working and food shopping) are still essential.
In essential businesses where contact with others is largely unavoidable (e.g., banks, grocery stores, and warehouses), many facility owners and managers are implementing social distancing measures to prevent unnecessary or excessive contact between people. For example, they are applying directional-flow social distancing floor decals in their facilities to help employees and customers comply with social distancing guidelines (i.e., maintaining a minimum of six feet of distance whenever possible).
The following blog post provides an overview of directional-flow tapes, outlining what they are, the benefits they offer for social distancing applications, and the product capabilities available at NADCO.

What Are Directional-Flow Tapes?
As suggested by the name, directional-flow tapes are used to guide the flow of foot traffic. They typically feature directional arrows and/or text (e.g., “ENTER,” “EXIT,” or “ONE WAY”). They are designed to be placed on facility floors and positioned to indicate the direction traffic should proceed. For example, in grocery stores, they show customers where to enter, how to move through the store, and where to exit.
Benefits of Using Directional-Flow Tapes for Social Distancing Applications
The recent global outbreak of COVID-19 has increased the importance of directional-flow tape. Its main functions are maintaining order and organization within a facility and marking out clear paths for customers—both of which help enforce social distancing by keeping foot traffic separated and moving. When used properly, these tapes can contribute to lower transmission rates and safer conditions for employees and customers.
Directional-Flow Tapes From NADCO
At NADCO® Tape & Labels, we specialize in the design, manufacture, and delivery of custom pressure-sensitive tapes and labels. Equipped with more than three decades of industry experience and a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, we have the expertise to produce adhesive tapes, labels, and other products for nearly any customer need. One of our core product offerings is directional-flow arrow tape, which currently plays a critical role in the fight against COVID-19.
Our directional-flow tape features an arrow indicating the direction of flow. It is made from a unique combination of liner and overlamination materials that protects it against harsh facility conditions (e.g., heat and cold). Material options include aluminum, cloth, copper foil, foam, paper, polypropylene film, PVC film, and vinyl. It is available in several standard colors and sizes (all compliant with OSHA/ANSI requirements) and is completely customizable to meet highly specific customer needs. While it is generally used on piping to indicate the flow of material, it can also be applied to facility floors to organize and control the flow of traffic for better compliance with social distancing guidelines.
Contact us today to learn more about our directional-flow tapes and how they can benefit your facility!
Industries We Serve
Aerospace Industry
Aerospace Industry
The aerospace industry uses adhesive tapes to hold and insulate critical components under exposure to a wide variety of harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures, high moisture, fluctuating pressures, and UV radiation. To withstand the operational challenges posed by aerospace equipment, tapes must meet stringent standards and requirements for temperature resistance, flammability, low weight, and adhesion.
Automotive Industry
Automotive Industry
NADCO Tapes and Labels is a leading manufacturer of standard and custom tapes and pressure-sensitive labels. With our 35,000 square foot facility full of the latest manufacturing technology, we can create custom products for countless industries, including the automotive industry.
Contruction Industry
Contruction Industry
There are many applications for adhesive tapes on construction sites both within a structure’s interior and around the exterior, and many types of construction tapes exist that provide solutions for this industry.
Electronics Industry
Electronics Industry
Adhesive tapes are common in the electronics industry. While they’re typically used for insulation and other safety reasons, there are a number of specific applications that require different custom tapes. At NADCO, we’re proud to offer a wide range of materials and adhesive options that can be used for electronic products and applications, from masking and shielding to mounting and more. Over the years, we’ve worked with countless clients in the electronics space, and not only are we familiar with industry requirements and expectations, we’ve worked to create custom solutions for these companies.
Medical Industry
Medical Industry
Adhesive tapes used in the medical industry must meet strict medical-grade standards that often require customization. The tapes used in medical applications have the potential of being exposed to varying conditions, so they must have biocompatibility and be able to withstand intense environments.
Nuclear Industry
Nuclear Industry
At NADCO, we understand that each application is different, which is why we provide a wide range of nuclear tape and label designs, features, and customization options. We aim to enhance the safety of nuclear applications with quality adhesive solutions for every situation, from nuclear warning labels and RAD wipes to hazard tape and radioactivity indicator signage.
Personal Protective Equipment Industry
Personal Protective Equipment Industry
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a broad term that refers to the equipment used to reduce your risk of injury or illness caused by exposure to germs and dangerous working conditions. Different types of PPE are required across various industries, depending upon the unique risks posed on the job site. These include face and eye protection as well as hard hats for the construction industry.
Safety Industry
Safety Industry
Safety is a crucial aspect of any work environment. Employees need a safe work environment, and customers must be able to access products and services without undue risk. In order to establish safe facilities, many companies incorporate safety tapes.



