CSLB Class B General Contractor's License Practice Exam

How must you protect a gas line run through a footing/foundation?

1. By encasing it in concrete

2. By insulating it with foam

3. By marking it with warning signs

4. By using a protective sleeve

The correct answer is: By using a protective sleeve

When running a gas line through a footing or foundation, it is essential to use a protective sleeve to ensure the safety and integrity of the gas line. The protective sleeve provides a barrier that not only protects the gas line from physical damage but also allows for movement and expansion of the materials without compromising the integrity of the gas line itself. The use of a protective sleeve is in compliance with building codes and regulations regarding gas piping systems. It helps to prevent corrosion and protects the gas line from concrete’s abrasive surfaces. Additionally, in the event of a leak, the sleeve can allow for the detection of gas escaping from the line, thus enhancing safety measures. Other options, while they may offer some level of protection in different contexts, do not adequately ensure the same level of safety and compliance as using a protective sleeve. Encasing a gas line in concrete may trap heat or moisture, potentially leading to corrosion. Insulating it with foam is not standard practice for protection against physical damage within a concrete foundation. Marking the line with warning signs is important for awareness but does not provide physical protection for the line itself.