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.

5303.4.1 Compressed gas container protective caps or collars.

Compressed gas containers designed to be fitted with protective caps, collars or other protective devices shall have such caps or devices in place except when the containers are in use or are being serviced or filled.

5303.4.2 Caps and plugs.

Valves of compressed gas containers designed to accept protection caps or other protective devices shall have such caps or devices attached. Outlet caps or plugs shall be in place except when the compressed gas containers are in use or are being serviced or filled.

5303.5 Separation from hazardous conditions.

Compressed gas containers and systems in storage or use shall be separated from materials and conditions that present potential hazards to them, or to which they present potential hazards. Compressed gas containers and systems in storage or use shall be separated in accordance with FC 5303.5.1 through 5303.5.11.

5303.5.1 Incompatible materials.

Compressed gas containers shall be separated from each other based on the hazard class of their contents. Compressed gas containers shall be separated from incompatible materials in accordance with FC 5003.9.8.