What is the minimum cover required for underground piping systems?

The minimum cover required for underground piping systems is essential to ensure the safety and integrity of the gas lines. A cover of 12 inches is mandated to protect the piping from physical damage and external forces, such as surface loads. This specific depth allows for adequate safeguarding against disturbances that may occur on the surface, such as vehicular traffic or landscaping activities.

In addition to physical protection, the 12-inch cover helps to prevent other potential risks, including exposure to environmental elements and reducing the likelihood of soil movement that might compromise the piping system. Compliance with this requirement ensures that installations abide by the safety standards outlined in the National Fuel Gas Code, which is designed to promote safe and reliable gas delivery systems.

Other depths provided as options either do not meet the minimum requirements or are unnecessarily deep for typical applications, potentially leading to increased costs or complications in installation without providing significant additional safety benefits.