What type of valve should be placed at the immediate connection of each source system to the distribution piping system?

The type of valve that should be placed at the immediate connection of each source system to the distribution piping system is the source valve. This valve is critical as it serves to control the flow of gas from the source, such as a gas cylinder or central supply system, into the piping that delivers the gas throughout a facility.

The primary function of the source valve is to allow for easy isolation of the gas source from the distribution system for maintenance, repairs, or in case of an emergency. By having this valve in place, facility personnel can ensure that the distribution system can be effectively and safely managed, which is vital in healthcare environments where the safe handling of medical gases is crucial for patient care.

In contrast, service valves are typically used for isolating sections of the piping system for maintenance but are not specifically for the immediate source connection. Main valves usually refer to valves that control the entire gas delivery system and may be found in larger contexts of the system setup rather than at individual source connections. Emergency valves, while important for safety, serve different functions that do not focus on the immediate connection point between source systems and distribution piping.