What must be done before modifications are made to existing medical gas piping systems?

Before any modifications are made to existing medical gas piping systems, a thorough risk assessment is essential. This process involves evaluating the current system and understanding the implications of the proposed changes on the safety, functionality, and compliance with applicable codes and regulations.

Conducting a risk assessment helps identify potential hazards associated with the modifications, ensuring that any risks to patients, staff, and the facility are minimized. It also assists in maintaining the integrity and reliability of the gas delivery system during and after the modifications. Ensuring that all safety and operational protocols are in place before moving forward with changes is vital in a healthcare environment where medical gases are critical to patient care.

While having a facility's medical gas system supervisor review the plans is important, it does not replace the need for a comprehensive risk assessment. Likewise, a complete system restart or staff training may be necessary at different stages but does not directly address the preparatory steps required before making modifications.