Why should medical gas pipelines be routed away from areas with high traffic?

Routing medical gas pipelines away from areas with high traffic is essential to minimize the risk of accidental damage and ensure safe operation. High traffic areas, such as corridors and waiting rooms, pose a greater risk for impact from wheeled equipment, foot traffic, or maintenance activities. Any accidental damage to the pipelines can lead to leaks or interruptions in the delivery of critical medical gases, such as oxygen or nitrous oxide, which can compromise patient care.

Additionally, avoiding high-traffic areas helps maintain the integrity and reliability of the gas distribution system. By ensuring that the pipelines are located in less congested and lower-risk environments, healthcare facilities can safeguard against potential hazards that may arise from human activity, thereby promoting a safer healthcare environment for both patients and staff.

The other options may address various aspects of hospital design or functionality, but they do not specifically relate to the critical safety concerns associated with operating medical gas systems in the presence of high traffic.