Interpretation #8097
Published April 03, 2018
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2014
- Code
- FUELGAS
- Code Description
- Chapter
- 24
- Section
- G2450.5.1
- Topic
- Accessible Shutoff Valve Location Interpretation.
Question
Can an appliance shut off valve be installed behind a gas range or dryer?
Answer Published 04/03/2018 at 6:56 AM
Yes. this would meet the definition of access (to). The section number does not track with the FBC-G and is not the FBC-FG. The location of shutoff valves is addressed in the FBC-R at Section G2420,1,2 which require valves to be located to provide access. The FBC-G defines the term access (to) and ready access (to). The FBC-R defines the term ready access (to) and the terms accessible and readily accessible. The installation described meets the definitions of access (to) and accessible. Neither code calls for the valves to have ready access (to) or be readily accessible.
Commentary
The IRC Commentary G2420.5.1 provides additional guidance: "Because such a valve is not an emergency valve, there is no reason to require ready access, and simply providing access is sufficient. Common practice has been to install the appliance shutoff valve behind ranges and clothes dryers . . ."