June 15
From the 2021 UPC Illustrated Training Manual, Chapter 12, FUEL GAS PIPING
1210.4.3 Tubing in Partitions. This provision shall not apply to tubing that pierces walls, floors, or partitions. Tubing installed vertically and horizontally inside hollow walls or partitions without protection along its entire concealed length shall meet the following requirements:
(1) A steel striker barrier not less than 0.0508 of an inch (1.3 mm) thick, or equivalent, is installed between the tubing and the finished wall and extends at least 4 inches (102 mm) beyond concealed penetrations of plates, firestops, wall studs, and so on.
(2) The tubing is installed in single runs and is not rigidly secured. [NFPA 54:7.3.4]
A striker plate of 0.0508-inch thickness is approximately 16 gauge metal. These plates are required at tubing penetrations to protect the tubing from nail or screw penetrations. Nails and screws are more apt to be able to pin down and penetrate a tube within the wall plate because it is restrained by the penetration. This hazard is also the basis for the requirement that tubing located away from penetrations must not be secured within the wall. If the tube is not secured, it can move within the wall space. This protection is not only for initial construction but for the home or building owner who may want to attach something to the wall (see Figure 1210.4.3). Some jurisdictions may require the same protection for steel piping. Again, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s requirements for CSST installations.
The 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code Illustrated Training Manual is available for purchase here.
(This is not to be considered the official position of IAPMO, nor is it an official interpretation of the Codes.)
IAPMO
IAPMO develops and publishes the Uniform Plumbing Code®, the most widely recognized code of practice used by the plumbing industry worldwide; Uniform Mechanical Code®; Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code®; and Uniform Solar Energy, Hydronics and Geothermal Code™ — the only plumbing, mechanical, solar energy and swimming pool codes designated by ANSI as American National Standards — and the Water Efficiency Standard (WE-Stand)™. IAPMO works with government, contractors, labor force, and manufacturers to produce product standards, technical manuals, personnel certification/educational programs and additional resources in order to meet the ever-evolving demands of the industry in protecting public health and safety.
Last modified: June 15, 2023