What is the maximum distance permitted between an appliance and a manual shutoff valve?

The correct answer is based on the NFPA 58 guidelines, which specify that the maximum distance permitted between an appliance and a manual shutoff valve is 6 feet. This distance is defined to ensure that the shutoff valve is easily accessible for operation during maintenance or emergencies, allowing for safe handling of the liquefied petroleum gas in the system. Having a distance limit helps prevent situations where the shutoff valve is difficult to reach, which could lead to increased risks during a gas leak or when servicing the appliance.

In practice, the distance requirement facilitates a balance between safety and accessibility, ensuring operators can quickly respond to any potential hazards without having to navigate far from the appliance. This regulation reinforces the importance of safety standards in the installation and maintenance of gas appliances, emphasizing the role of easily accessible shutoff mechanisms in risk management.