What is a critical requirement for gas piping running in a concrete slab?

The requirement for gas piping running in a concrete slab being sleeved and vented is vital for several reasons. Sleeving provides physical protection to the gas piping from the concrete, which can be abrasive and may adversely affect the integrity of the piping over time. Additionally, venting is essential because it ensures that any gas leaks can be safely dispersed into the atmosphere, reducing the risk of dangerous build-up within confined spaces. This is particularly important when the piping is buried or encased in materials like concrete, as leaks may otherwise go unnoticed until they create hazardous conditions.

In this context, while protecting gas lines is generally a good practice, the specific mention of sleeving and venting addresses the unique challenges posed by encasement in concrete, making it the most critical requirement when installing gas piping in such environments.