How should gas piping systems be routed through building structures?

The routing of gas piping systems through building structures is critical for ensuring safety and reliability. Protection from damage is a key consideration in the installation process. When gas piping is routed, it must be shielded from potential hazards that could cause mechanical damage. This includes being placed away from areas where the piping may be exposed to impacts or crushing forces from equipment, building materials, or even human activity.

By ensuring that gas pipes are protected from damage by mechanical means, it significantly reduces the risk of leaks or failures that could lead to dangerous situations, such as gas leaks or fires. Proper protective measures might include using protective guards, placing the piping in less vulnerable locations, or using materials designed to withstand impacts.

Other routes of installation, like being accessible or using flexible joints, while beneficial in certain contexts, do not address the fundamental concern of protecting the integrity of the piping itself against damage, which is critical for safe operation. Hence, placing a strong emphasis on protection from damage is essential for adherence to the safety standards set forth in gas code regulations.