Annual Medical Gas System Retesting

What is Retesting and maintenance of non-flammable medical piped gas systems? Retesting is the inspection of medical gas systems to assure that the systems are operating properly. Maintenance to the systems is required in order to keep the systems operating as they were originally intended.

Why is Retesting necessary? An Annual Retesting report of medical gas systems is usually requested by the DOH and/or The Joint Commission. NFPA 99, Standard on Health Care Facilities does not mandate Retesting but does list suggested tests in annex c.
 
Who performs medical gas system retesting? Much like medical gas system verifications, a third party verification company usually performs retesting of medical gas systems. Third party verifiers or ASSE 6030 Medical Gas System Verifiers have a good understanding of the codes.
 
What should be checked during the Retesting to assure the medical gas system is operating properly and safely? 

  • Proper functioning of the pressure gauge and high water level sensor should be checked annually (Liquid ring medical air systems). 
  • The Reserve-In-Use warning signal (master alarm) and all components of this warning signal system should be retested annually. 
  • The Reserve Supply Low (Down to an average one day supply) High Pressure Cylinder or Liquid Reserve (master alarm) and all components of these signal warning systems should be retested annually. 
  • The medical compressed air system alarms (master alarm). 
  • Proper functioning of the (medical air system) dew point sensor should be checked at least annually. 
  • Annual retesting of all components of warning systems, if it can be done without changing piping system line pressure, should be performed (Level 1 warning systems). 
  • Test buttons, if provided, should be tested to confirm that the audible and visual alarms function at least monthly. 
  • Shutoff valves should be periodically checked for leakage. 
  • Station outlets and inlets should be periodically checked for leakage and flow.
Having Annual Retesting of the medical gas systems performed in conjunction with a comprehensive preventative maintenance program will help keep a facility in compliance and is a proactive approach to keeping systems operating safely and efficiently.

By:

Jay D’Agostino
Vice President of Operations
ASSE 6020 Medical Gas Inspector

ASSE 6030 Medical Gas Systems Verifier
MGPHO CMGV No: V-0137