A-2 Gas Installation Code Introduction
You must be able to recognize and access pertinent codes, regulations, and standards related to the gas equipment installations. This section will familiarize you with the most important codes and standards in the field.
Learning Objectives
After completing the chapters in this section, you will be able to:
- Identify codes, regulations, and standards for the gas industry.
- Explain the purpose of the different sections contained within the B149.1 Gas Installation Code.
Terminology
The following terms will be used throughout this section. A complete list of terms for this section can be found in the Glossary.
- air supply: (For combustion); The air required by a gas appliance to support proper combustion, which may need to come from outside depending on appliance type and building design. (Section A-2.2)
- B149.1 code: The Canadian standard that governs the installation of natural gas and propane appliances and equipment. It’s a critical document for all gas-related work. (Section A-2.2)
- combustible material: Any material that can ignite and burn. The code contains specific clearance requirements to prevent fire hazards. (Section A-2.2)
- gas pressure regulators: A device used to control and maintain gas pressure at a safe, usable level for gas appliances. (Section A-2.2)
- natural gas: A fossil fuel primarily composed of methane, used as a common energy source in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. (Section A-2.2)
- piping and tubing systems: Approved assemblies of pipes, tubes, hoses, and fittings used to safely transport gas from the meter or tank to appliances. (Section A-2.2)
- propane: A hydrocarbon gas used as a fuel, often stored in tanks or cylinders, commonly used where natural gas service is unavailable. (Section A-2.2)
- psi: The pressure exerted by a force of one pound-force applied over an area of one square inch is defined as 1 psi (pound per square inch). In the International System of Units (SI), 1 psi is approximately equal to 6,895 pascals. PSI is a unit of pressure in both the US customary and imperial systems. It is also sometimes referred to as pound-force per square inch. (Section A-2.1)
- psia: The term “pound per square inch absolute” (psia) specifies that the pressure measurement is relative to a vacuum, as opposed to ambient atmospheric pressure. Note: pounds per square inch gauge is “psig” whereas pounds per square inch absolute is “psia.” (Section A-2.1)
- psig: PSIG stands for “pounds per square inch gauge” and refers to the pressure measured by a gauge or other pressure measurement device. It indicates the difference between the pressure inside a pipe or tank and the atmospheric pressure (atm). Note: pounds per square inch gauge is “PSIG” whereas pounds per square inch absolute – PSIA. (Section A-2.1)
- purge: The process of removing air or other gases from piping systems before gas is introduced, critical for safe appliance operation. (Section A-2.2)
