Safety of the medical gas pipeline system

J Anaesthesiol Clin Pharmacol. 2018 Jan-Mar;34(1):99-102. doi: 10.4103/joacp.JOACP_274_16.

Abstract

Medical gases are nowadays being used for a number of diverse clinical applications and its piped delivery is a landmark achievement in the field of patient care. Patient safety is of paramount importance in the design, installation, commissioning, and operation of medical gas pipeline systems (MGPS). The system has to be operational round the clock, with practically zero downtime and its failure can be fatal if not restored at the earliest. There is a lack of awareness among the clinicians regarding the medico-legal aspect involved with the MGPS. It is a highly technical field; hence, an in-depth knowledge is a must to ensure safety with the system.

Keywords: Central supply; hospital; nitrous oxide; oxygen.