What is the minimum separation required between CNG containers and aboveground tanks of flammable materials?

The minimum separation required between CNG containers and aboveground tanks of flammable materials is established to ensure safety and mitigate any potential hazards that could arise from the proximity of these two types of materials. The correct answer emphasizes a separation of 20 feet, which is a standard guideline aimed at reducing the risk of fire or explosion.

Having a distance of at least 20 feet allows for safe operational practices, ensuring that in the event of a leak or fire from one source, the other is sufficiently far away to minimize the chance of a catastrophic incident. This distance is informed by safety recommendations and regulations in the gas and petroleum industries, which consider factors such as the properties of the materials involved, the potential hazards, and the dynamics of fire.

Maintaining this separation distance is crucial for creating a safe environment both for workers involved in handling these materials and for nearby structures or individuals. Regulations and safety protocols are designed around such distances to comply with best practices in risk management and public safety.