What type of barrier can be used to separate oxygen cylinders from fuel gas cylinders?

The correct choice involves using a 5-foot non-combustible barrier to separate oxygen cylinders from fuel gas cylinders. This requirement stems from safety regulations aimed at preventing potential hazards that could arise from the proximity of oxygen and fuels.

Oxygen supports combustion, meaning that if it comes into contact with fuels, such as acetylene or propane, there is a heightened risk of fire or explosions. The 5-foot non-combustible barrier serves as a physical separation that can effectively reduce this risk by limiting the potential for flames or sparks to reach the fuel gas cylinders, thereby enhancing safety in areas where these types of gases are stored or used.

In contrast, a 10-foot barrier may be more restrictive than necessary as standard regulations typically specify a 5-foot distance for such setups to be effective while still allowing practical access to the cylinders. Water-based and chemical barriers do not provide the same level of physical separation and might not be effective in preventing the ignition of combustible gases in a fire situation.