NFPA 99 defines the medical gas systems for all healthcare facilities based on a number of factors all related to the safety of the patients who are connected to them. Each medical gas “system” from the source equipment to the outlet/inlet termination point can be placed into one of three categories or “levels”. The least stringent requirements are applicable to Level 3 facilities which are typically (but not necessarily always) dental facilities.
One of the requirements for the oxygen and nitrous oxide piping systems for Level 3 facilities is that the line sizes for each of these gases be different so as to clearly distinguish separation of the piping systems as they are routed throughout the facility. Para. 5.3.10.10.3 of the 2005 edition of NFPA 99 dictates a minimum line size of (NPS 3/8” or ½” OD) for oxygen systems and (NPS ¼” or 3/8” OD) for nitrous oxide systems. The intent of this distinction is to prevent cross connection of these two gases as explained in Para. A.5.3.10.10.3. Most of these source systems (manifolds) are manufactured as a common enclosure for both gases, with two copper feed lines extending out from the top of the enclosure. Sometimes these feed lines are the same line size, which can be confusing, especially if these lines are not correctly labeled.
Recently, (March 2009) a terrible accident occurred in Togonoxie, KS when a patient in a dental office was given nitrous oxide gas instead of oxygen, as a practitioner intended. According to news reports, this mistake was due to the “incorrect connection of the medical gas lines.” The full article on this medical gas mishap can be viewed at: http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2009/apr/22/medical-gas-accident-may-lead-policy-change/
EMGS, Inc. is pleased to announce its’ recent contracts with two international companies to provide medical gas training. Both sessions will take place in 2011 in Central and Latin American countries. Our training material has been translated from English to Spanish to better serve these clients, and we look forward to establishing and building upon this international relationship.
The need for medical gas training is global. The importance of proper installation and inspection services is paramount anywhere in the world. If you enjoy traveling, take into consideration that accidents and illness can happen anytime, anywhere. While a trip to the hospital is not on anyone’s vacation itinerary, if you did end up in a hospital, you would hope that the facility operates under appropriate safety standards. EMGS, Inc. strives to teach safety standards and elevate the importance of the medical gas industry so that we all benefit.
We look forward to further training opportunities, both domestic and international.
Whether you have been recently certified as a Medical Gas Installer, or have been certified for many years, you may be interested in purchasing a Medical Gas Installer’s Kit. This kit contains the majority of equipment needed to install medical gas piping, and is conveniently packed in a sturdy case for easy, on the job access.
You can order the kit as it comes or customize it for your needs.
You can view the kit contents and photos by clicking here: https://dev-emgsi.pantheonsite.io/pdf/Installer_Kit_Flyer.pdf
NFPA 99 defines the medical gas systems for all healthcare facilities based on a number of factors all related to the safety of the patients who are connected to them. Each medical gas “system” from the source equipment to the outlet/inlet termination point can be placed into one of three categories or “levels”. The least stringent requirements are applicable to Level 3 facilities which are typically (but not necessarily always) dental facilities.
One of the requirements for the oxygen and nitrous oxide piping systems for Level 3 facilities is that the line sizes for each of these gases be different so as to clearly distinguish separation of the piping systems as they are routed throughout the facility. Para. 5.3.10.10.3 of the 2005 edition of NFPA 99 dictates a minimum line size of (NPS 3/8” or ½” OD) for oxygen systems and (NPS ¼” or 3/8” OD) for nitrous oxide systems. The intent of this distinction is to prevent cross connection of these two gases as explained in Para. A.5.3.10.10.3. Most of these source systems (manifolds) are manufactured as a common enclosure for both gases, with two copper feed lines extending out from the top of the enclosure. Sometimes these feed lines are the same line size, which can be confusing, especially if these lines are not correctly labeled.
Recently, (March 2009) a terrible accident occurred in Togonoxie, KS when a patient in a dental office was given nitrous oxide gas instead of oxygen, as a practitioner intended. According to news reports, this mistake was due to the “incorrect connection of the medical gas lines.” The full article on this medical gas mishap can be viewed at: http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2009/apr/22/medical-gas-accident-may-lead-policy-change/
Brazing Continuity
Once an individual has passed an ASSE 6010 Installer course they are required to submit a brazing continuity affidavit, stating that they have successfully brazed using the proper procedure. This is done on a 6 month basis. At EMGS, Inc. we mail continuity forms to all of our installers and require them to sign and return them for verification of this requirement. The code reference for this requirement is below:
The 2005 edition of NFPA 99 in paragraph 5.1.10.10.12.7 states:
“Performance qualification of brazers shall remain in effect indefinitely unless the brazer does not braze with the qualified procedure for a period exceeding 6 months; or there is a specific reason to question the ability of the brazer.”
If you hold an Installer license, it is very important that you adhere to this so there is no lapse in the validity of your license. Please check periodically with your certifying agency for requirements and examine your brazing license to be sure all expiration dates are valid.