(a) Each service line connection to a main should be located at the top of the main or, if that is not practical, at the side of the main, unless a suitable protective device is installed to minimize the possibility of dust and moisture being carried from the main into the service line.
(b) Each compression-type service line to main connection must:
(1) be designed and installed to effectively sustain the longitudinal pullout or thrust forces caused by contraction or expansion of the piping, or by anticipated external or internal loading;
(2) if gaskets are used in connecting the service line to the main connection fitting, have gaskets that are compatible with the kind of gas in the system; and
(3) If used on pipelines comprised of plastic, be a Category 1 connection as defined by a listed specification for the applicable material, providing a seal plus resistance to a force on the pipe joint equal to or greater than that which will cause no less than 25 percent elongation of pipe, or the pipe fails outside the joint area if tested in accordance with the applicable standard.