An equipment shutoff valve must be located within how many feet of an appliance?

An equipment shutoff valve must be located within 6 feet of an appliance to ensure that it is easily accessible in case of an emergency or when maintenance is required. This proximity allows the operator or technician to quickly turn off the gas supply if there is a leak or other dangerous situation associated with the appliance. The 6-foot requirement strikes a balance between being close enough for immediate access while also maintaining a safe distance to avoid accidental activation.

The other distances provided are either too short or too long, which could either hamper accessibility or lead to safety risks in an emergency. For instance, a 3-foot or 4-foot distance might not provide sufficient leeway from the appliance, while a 10-foot distance could delay response time in critical situations. Thus, the 6-foot standard is a crucial safety measure in gas appliance installations.