5303.2.3 Piping systems.

Piping systems shall be marked in accordance with ASME A13.1. Markings used for piping systems shall consist of the name of the contents and include an arrow indicating direction of flow. Markings shall be provided at each valve; at wall, floor or ceiling penetrations; at each change of direction; and at a minimum of every 20 feet (6096 mm) or fraction thereof throughout the piping run.

   Exceptions:

      1.   Piping that is designed or intended to carry more than one compressed gas at various times shall have appropriate signs or markings posted at the manifold, along the piping and at each point of use to provide clear identification and warning.

      2.   Piping within gas-manufacturing plants, gas-processing plants and similar occupancies shall be marked in an approved manner.

5303.2.4 Out-of-service containers.

Out-of-service compressed gas containers shall be marked to indicate that they are no longer available for service.

5303.3 Container protection.

Compressed gas containers and systems shall be secured and protected against physical damage and tampering in compliance with the requirements of FC 5003.9.2, 5303.3.2 and 5303.3.3.

5303.3.1 Flood hazard.

Stationary compressed gas containers located in areas of special flood hazard or on the premises of Group I-2 occupancies that are hospitals located in shaded X-Zones (as defined in Section G201.2 of Appendix G of the Building Code) shall comply with Section G307.5 of the Building Code.

5303.3.2 Physical protection.

Compressed gas containers and systems that could be exposed to physical damage shall be protected. Posts or other approved means shall be provided to protect compressed gas containers and systems indoors and outdoors from vehicular damage and shall comply with the requirements of FC 312.

5303.3.3 Securing compressed gas containers.

Compressed gas containers shall be secured to prevent movement from contact, vibration or seismic activity, utilizing one or more of the following methods:

   1.   Securing containers to a fixed object with one or more noncombustible restraints. Containers shall not be secured to plumbing systems or electrical conduits.

   2.   Securing containers on a cart or other mobile device designed for the movement of compressed gas containers.

   3.   Nesting of compressed gas containers at container filling or servicing facilities or in seller's warehouses not accessible to the public. Nesting may be used provided the nested containers, if dislodged, do not obstruct any required means of egress.

   4.   Securing of compressed gas containers to or within a rack, framework, cabinet or similar assembly designed for such use, except when the containers are being inspected, serviced, filled or transported.

   5.   Securing stationary compressed gas containers to a foundation designed for such use in accordance with the construction codes, including the Building Code.

5303.4 Valve protection.

Compressed gas container valves shall be protected from physical damage by means of protective caps, collars or similar devices, in compliance with the requirements of FC 5303.4.1 and 5303.4.2.