ECG Colour Codes Explained

In this guide, we will try and demonstrate about the different colour code used in different international sstandards for ECG lead wires

Since the introduction of  String Galvanometer ECG is most commonly conducted diagnostic procedure and fundamental tool for clinical practice.

ECG lead misplacement can result in significant harm to the patient if essential treatment is withheld or if the incorrect treatment is delivered solely on the basis of ECG findings.

History of ECG Colour codes:

ECG procedure is an important step in ensuring the high level of precision required and expected by clinicians and their patients. Recognising the importance of the same leading Standardising bodies(IEC and ANSI) the in the world have initially issued their own standards.

 The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is one of the world’s leading organization that prepares and publishes International Standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies. IEC released Standards for ECG Devices in year 1993 namely IEC 606061-2-25

 The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) together published first standard for ECG device in the year 1991 namely EC11.

 Since both the bodies have issued different standards for their respective operating countries during different times, they have followed different logic in naming the colour codes for ECG Lead/cable placements. Even though these standards have gone through many revisions, the discrepancy remains.

 Since the manufacturers from respective affiliated countries follow either of IEC or ANSI, the device importing countries experience conflicting colour codes. Below Picture representations will help you understand the difference and can help you place the leads in proper manner.

3 / 5 LEAD ECG CABLES COLOUR CODES

AHA/AAMI - American Heart Association / Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation			IEC - International Electrotechnical Commission
Location	Description	Colour	Location	Description	Colour
	RA (Right Arm)	White		R (Right)	Red
	LA (Left Arm)	Black		L (Left)	Yellow
	RL (Right Leg)	Green		N (Neutral)	Black
	LL (Left Leg)	Red		F (Foot)	Green
	V (Chest)	Brown		C (Chest)	White

10 LEAD ECG CABLE COLOUR CODES

AHA/AAMI - American Heart Association / Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation			IEC - International Electrotechnical Commission
Location	Description	Colour	Location	Description	Colour
	RA (Right Arm)	White		R (Right)	Red
	LA (Left Arm)	Black		L (Left)	Yellow
	RL (Right Leg)	Green		N (Neutral)	Black
	LL (Left Leg)	Red		F (Foot)	Green
	V1 (Precordial)	Red		C1 (Chest)	Red
	V2	Yellow		C2	Yellow
	V3	Green		C3	Green
	V4	Blue		C4	Brown
	V5	Orange		C5	Black
	V6	Violet		C6	Purple