NFPA 99 differentiates healthcare facilities by using three Levels. Each level has specific codes, standards, recommended practices and guides. Do you know the difference between the three levels?
Facilities with medical gas and vacuum systems which serve patients who would be in imminent danger of morbidity or mortality if there was an interruption in the flow of gas or vacuum, are considered to be Level 1. Hospitals usually fall into this category.
Facilities with medical gas and vacuum systems which serve patients who would be at a manageable risk if there was an interruption in the flow of gas or vacuum are considered to be Level 2.
Most of the level 2 requirements revert back to the level 1 requirement. There are however some differences. Level 2 facilities are allowed to have only one master alarm panel. The requirement also allows for simplex medical air, vacuum and WAGD systems. The trade-off is that the facility staff will need a safety plan and back-up equipment in place in case of a loss of the system.
Even though we have a choice to go with a less-stringent code, sometimes it is better to have the duplex system installed, as it will lengthen the pump/compressor life and eliminate the need for an emergency plan with associated equipment that needs to be stored and maintained. Nursing Homes and other comparable facilities that are stand-alone which care for patients who do not require mechanical ventilation, usually fall into this Level 2 category.
Facilities with medical gas and vacuum systems which serve patients who would be in no imminent danger of morbidity or mortality if there was an interruption in the flow of gas or vacuum, are considered to be Level 3. Most medical and dental offices fall into this category.
Level 3 is an entirely different, less-stringent code than both level 1 and level 2. This is mostly due to the fact that there would be no risk to the patient if there was an interruption in the flow of gas or vacuum, other than termination of the procedures. Nevertheless, the oxygen and nitrous oxide portions of these systems must meet the same criteria as Level 1 and 2, and must be installed and tested by credentialed medical gas professionals.
By:
Jay D’Agostino & Frank Rudilosso
