Why CO₂ Exhaust Ports Must Be 10 Feet from Doors and Intakes
❓ Why does the CO₂ tank exhaust need to be 10 feet from doors, windows, or air intakes?
ANSWER:
This requirement is part of national fire and life safety codes intended to protect building occupants from exposure to carbon dioxide gas. It is mandated by the following standards:
- International Fire Code (IFC) Section 5307.3
- NFPA 55: Compressed Gases and Cryogenic Fluids Code, Section 7.1.10.3
These codes state that any CO₂ tank pressure relief valve, vent, or exhaust port must discharge at least 10 feet away from:
- Entry and exit doors
- Openable windows
- HVAC systems or outdoor air intakes
🔍 Why is this rule in place?
CO₂ is heavier than air and can accumulate in low-lying areas. In the event of a release, if gas discharges too close to a doorway or ventilation opening, it may enter the building and pose a suffocation hazard.
Maintaining a 10-foot clearance ensures that vented gas dissipates safely into the open atmosphere, reducing the risk to occupants and staff.
🛠 What if the tank is already close to a door?
You do not necessarily need to move the tank.
Instead, the exhaust port can be extended using approved rigid or flexible piping so that the point where the gas discharges is located at least 10 feet away from any building opening.
This solution is fully code-compliant and often used when space constraints prevent relocating the tank.
The extension must be installed according to manufacturer guidelines and must comply with the applicable fire and building codes.
👷 Who can handle this correction?
If your tank’s exhaust line does not meet code, Global Systems United can help.
We are equipped to design and install code-compliant CO₂exhaust extensions and regularly coordinate with fire inspectors to ensure full compliance and pass final inspections.
If your gas provider or installer prefers to handle the adjustment themselves, the code references provided above can be used to guide the correction.
📝 Will this affect the inspection process?
Yes. Fire marshals and building inspectors regularly review the placement and discharge of CO₂ tank vents. If the exhaust port does not meet the 10-foot clearance requirement, final sign-off may be delayed until the issue is resolved.
To avoid any setbacks, we always check for compliance and notify our clients of any potential issues during installation or integration. When needed, we can step in to perform the correction and ensure everything is ready for inspection.
