(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% elongation of pipe, or the pipe fails outside the joint area if tested in accordance with the applicable standard.