2021 Codes

5.1.3.7.5.1 Piping arrangement shall be as follows:

(3) Where only one set of vacuum pumps is available for a combined medical–surgical vacuum system and an analysis, a research, or a teaching laboratory vacuum system, such laboratories shall be connected separately from the medical–surgical system directly to the receiver tank through its own isolation valve and fluid trap located at the receiver, and between the isolation valve and fluid trap, a scrubber shall be permitted to be installed.

5.1.14.1.4* The medical–surgical vacuum and WAGD systems shall not be used for nonmedical applications (e.g., vacuum steam condensate return).

Proposed 2024 Code:

5.1.14.1.4* Medical–surgical vacuum and WAGD systems are permitted to also be used for nonmedical applications if in compliance with 5.1.3.7.5.1(3), and also sized to accommodate the additional volume.

Reason for change:

Liquids used in a scope cleaning room may not be any more harmful to the vacuum system than those used in a teaching laboratory.

IN MY OPINION

NFPA 99 2021 Codes ( THE LISTED IN MOST ALL THE PAST CODES )

Section #5.1.3.7.5.1 Piping arrangement shall be as follows:

(3) Where only one set of vacuum pumps is available for a combined medical–surgical vacuum system and an analysis, a research, or a teaching laboratory vacuum system, such laboratories shall be connected separately from the medical–surgical system directly to the receiver tank through its own isolation valve and fluid trap located at the receiver, and between the isolation valve and fluid trap, a scrubber shall be permitted to be installed.

Section #5.1.14.1.4* The medical–surgical vacuum and WAGD systems shall not be used for nonmedical applications (e.g., vacuum steam condensate return).

To me its clear and understandable.

The major problem is the location Section #5.1.14.1.4.

Its listed way in the back of Chapter #5 - So its missed by the Design Team and Hospital Staff. ( also missed by a large number of verifiers or perhaps ignored )

I suggest, a simple comment listed within Section #5.1.3.7.5.1 to review Section #5.1.14.1.4, is all that is needed:

Again If This Section Is In Place For Patient Safety!

Medical / Surgical Vacuum Systems Need The Same Verbal.

( not just removing the wording OK for non-medical use )

5.1.3.5.2  Permitted Locations for Medical Gases. Central supply systems and medical gas outlets for oxygen, medical air, nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide, and all other patient medical gases shall be piped only into areas where the gases will be used under the direction of licensed medical professionals for purposes congruent with the following: 

(1) Direct respiration by patients

(2) Clinical application of the gas to a patient, such as the use of an insufflator to inject carbon dioxide into patient body cavities during laparoscopic surgery and carbon dioxide used to purge heart-lung machine blood flow ways

(3) Medical device applications directly related to respiration

(4) Power for medical devices used directly on patients

(5) Calibration of medical devices intended for (1) through (4) 

5.1.3.5.3  Support Gases. Central supply systems for support gases shall not be piped to, or used for, any purpose except medical support application.