What should be the minimum separation distance between various medical gas storage areas?

The minimum separation distance between various medical gas storage areas should be 20 feet, unless a fire-rated barrier separates them. This guideline is crucial for safety as it helps to minimize the risk of fire or explosion in the event of a gas leak or other hazardous situation. The rationale for this distance is based on the properties of the gases involved and their potential to contribute to combustion or to react dangerously under certain conditions.

A separation distance of 20 feet is designed to provide an adequate safety buffer, while the provision for a fire-rated barrier allows for closer proximity if the barrier meets specific fire safety standards. This approach balances the need for safety with practical considerations for space within medical facilities where multiple gas supplies may be necessary.

Other options such as 10 feet or 50 feet may not reflect current safety standards. A distance of no separation required does not consider the inherent risks associated with the medical gases, which is why maintaining specified distances is crucial in medical gas storage practices.