What term describes the vertical piping segments that feed multiple floors in a hospital gas distribution system?

• A. Vent Lines
• B. Risers
• C. Branch (lateral) lines
• D. Main lines

Answer: (B)

Vertical distribution in a hospital gas system is handled by risers. Risers are the vertical piping segments that carry the gas upward through the building, connecting the central supply to each floor’s distribution. From these risers, branch lines run on each floor to deliver gas to individual outlets. This vertical backbone is what lets multiple floors be served from a single plant.

Vent lines, by contrast, are used to vent or exhaust gases and aren’t the main vertical feeders. Branch (lateral) lines operate horizontally on a floor from the riser to outlets. Main lines are the primary trunk routes bringing gas from the plant toward the building’s distribution but aren’t defined by moving between floors.