Which code is vital for ensuring gas systems are safely installed and operated?

The National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54) is essential for the safe installation and operation of gas systems. This code provides comprehensive guidelines regarding the design, installation, and maintenance of gas appliances and piping systems. It covers important safety measures, including proper venting, appliance installation requirements, and the safe handling of natural and propane gases.

Following this code ensures that gas systems operate within established safety parameters, reducing the risk of leaks, fires, and explosions. Compliance with NFPA 54 is crucial for engineers and installers to ensure that all aspects of gas systems meet national safety standards, thereby protecting both property and human life.

Other codes mentioned in the options, such as the International Plumbing Code and the Electrical Code of America, are important for their respective fields but do not specifically address the safety measures required for gas systems, highlighting the unique role that the National Fuel Gas Code plays in this context.