Which of these is an NFPA 99 requirement for the labeling of pipes in a medical gas system?

• A. Label shall wrap completely around the pipe
• B. Fixed label width
• C. Color coding
• D. Reflective label

Answer: (C)

Color coding is required because it provides an immediate, standardized visual cue to identify the type of gas in a medical gas piping system, helping prevent misconnections and ensuring safer operation, maintenance, and emergency response. NFPA 99 specifies this color-coded labeling so staff can recognize gases at a glance regardless of text labeling. While other labeling features like wrapping a label around the pipe or using a fixed width or reflective label aren’t mandated by NFPA 99 for pipe labeling, the essential requirement is the standardized color coding that communicates what gas is in the line.