Proximity to things like exhaust up-pipes is EXACTLY why we use CNC bent S.S. tubing in those areas....and have been for YEARS! Even our original 7.3L fuel system kits (circa 2001-2004), which had push-lok hose, had hand-bent S.S. Tubing sections!
Our 7.3L kits since about 2004 and ALL of our 6.0L kits have used the same US made S.S. over Teflon hose with CNC bent S.S. tubing sections in tight bend and high heat areas. You would be hard pressed to get one of our S.S. fuel lines to touch an up-pipe unless someone has bent it in a way it's not supposed to be bent.
I'm not sure who is still using push-lok on regulated return fuel systems these days, but anyone that is should be avoided because they are doing so at risk to their customers. I don't have a problem with it under the truck (feeding the pump for instance) because it's away from the heat, but it shouldn't be used for the high pressure lines on top of the engine.
It's usually harder to get the old plug out of the back of the head with the stupid allen tool than it is to get the new banjo installed.