HTM 2022-2

HTM 2022
Medical gas
pipeline systems
j33
Medical gas
pipeline systems
Operational management
Health Technical Memorandum 2022
London: The Stationery Office
121I& ofEstates
of
An Executive Agency the Department Health
© Crown copyright 1997. Published with permission of NHS Estates,
an Executive Agency of the Department of Health,
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First published 1997
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About this series
Health Technical Memoranda (HTMs) They are applicable to new and existing
give comprehensive advice and sites, and are for use at various stages
guidance on the design, installation and during the inception, design,
operation of specialised building and construction, refurbishment and
engineering technology used in the maintenance of a building.
delivery of healthcare
Executive summary
This volume of Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) The guidance given in this HTM should be followed for all
2022 looks at issues of operational management. It covers new installationsand refurbishment or upgrading of
such issues as statutory requirements,functional existing installations.
responsibilities,operational policy, operational procedures,
trainingand communications,cylinder management, It is not necessary to apply the guidance retrospectively
general safety, maintenanceand risk assessment — control unlesspatient or staff safety would be compromised. In
of exposureto anaestheticagents, giving definitions and this case, the guidance given in this HTM should be
working practices throughout. followed.
This volume is intended for use by operational managers, Existing installationsshould be assessed for compliance
engineers,quality controllers, technicians,finance officers with this HTM. A plan for upgrading the existing system
and otherprofessionalsinvolved in the day-to-day running should be preparedtaking account of the priority for
of an MGPS. patient safety. Managerswill need to liaise with medical
colleaguesand takeaccount of otherguidance published
The primary objective of this volume is to ensure the by the Department of Health in orderto assessthe system
provision of safe and reliable MGPSs and their efficient for technical shortcomings.
operation and use. This objective will only be achieved if
the medicaland nursing users, and estatesstaff
participate in the introduction of an operational policy
designed to minimise the hazardslikely to arise from
misuse of the system.
A MGPS is installed to provide a safe, convenient and cost

effective systemfor the provision of medical gases to the
clinical and nursing staff at the point of use. It reducesthe
problems associated with the use of gas cylinderssuch as
safety, porterage, storage and noise.
Contents
Aboutthis publication 5.33 Contractors

5.36 Medical equipment purchase
Executivesummary
6.0 Operational procedures page21
1.0 Scope page3 6.1 Permit-to-work procedure
1.1 General 6.61 Testsafterworkon the MGPS
1.10 Operational management 6.72 Procedure for cleaning contaminated vacuum
1.13 Other guidance systems
2.0 Functionaloverview page5 7.0 Training and communications page32

2.1 Basic description of an MGPS 7.1 Training
7.8 Communications
3.0 Statutory requirements page8
3.2 Healthand Safety at Worketc Act 8.0 Cylinder management page33
3.3 Management of Health and Safety at Work 8.1 Cylinder storage and handling
Regulations1992 8.10 Accommodation for medical gas cylinders
3.4 Work Place (Health, Safety and Welfare) 8.11 Design and construction of cylinder stores
Regulations1992 8.18 Hazchem/warningsigns
3.5 Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 8.23 Handling of cylinders
1992 8.45 Equipment for use with medicalgas cylinders
3.6 Reportingof Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous 8.47 Precautionsagainst leakage of gas
Occurrences Regulations1985 8.55 Precautionsagainst fire, heat and chemicals
3.7 Manual Handling Operation Regulations 1992 8.61 Cylinders involved in incidents
3.10 Personal ProtectiveEquipment at Work Regulations 8.62 Storage of cylinders in manifold rooms
1992 8.64 Storage of cylinders in ready-to-usestores
3.11 ElectromagneticCompatibility Regulations1992 8.71 Stock control and receipt of cylinders into stock
3.12 COSHH Regulations 8.72 Ordering from suppliers
3.16 Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers 8.73 Returns to suppliers
Regulations 8.74 Issue from stores
3.21 Highly Flammable Liquids and Liquid PetroleumGas 8.75 Return of cylinders to stores
Regulations 8.76 Receipt of cylindersintostock
3.23 MedicinesAct 8.78 Labelling/marking of cylinders
8.83 Restriction on use of storage accommodation
4.0 Functionalresponsibilities page 12 8.86 Notices
4.1 General 8.89 Access to manifold rooms and liquid oxygen
4.6 Management storage areas
4.7 Key personnel 8.90 Fire detection system
4.8 Executive manager 8.91 Classificationof hazardousareas for the selection
4.13 Estates management of electrical equipment based on BS5345:
4.15 Authorised person (MGPS) Part 1:1976
4.24 Competent person (MGPS)
4.26 Quality controller (QC) 9.0 General safety and fire precautions page47
4.28 Designatedmedicalor nursing officer 9.1 General safety
9.9 Safety statement for usersof oxygen equipment
5.0 Operational policy page 16 9.16 Material compatibility
5.1 General 9.17 Protectiveclothing for handling cryogenicgases
5.3 Operational considerations 9.20 Other medical gases
5.20 Emergency procedures 9.21 Fire precautions
5.22 Power supplyfailure 9.34 Ventilation
5.23 Record drawings
5.26 Locking of valves and plantrooms for MGPS 10.0 Maintenance page 52
5.31 Monitoring of the operational policy 10.1 General
Contents
10.7 Organisation
10.10 Preparationof a maintenance contract
10.18 General work procedures
10.26 Competencyof contractor's staff
10.42 Test equipment
10.47 Services
10.59 Method statement
10.63 Records
10.71 Emergencycall-out procedures
10.79 Responsibilities of the trust to monitor the
service
10.86 Preparationof a PPM schedule
10.93 Specific maintenance checks
10.109 Medical vacuum systems: bacterial filters—
standard operating procedure for filter changing
10.117 Schedule of maintenanceservices
11.0 Risk assessment — control of exposureto

anaestheticagents page66
10.1 General
10.5 Risk assessment
10.10 Methods of control
10.13 Monitoring
12.0 Definitions page69
Appendix I — General safetyrequirements page73

Medical compressed air and surgical air plant
Medical gas manifolds
Medical vacuum plant
Pipeline distribution system
Warningand alarm systems
Anaestheticgas scavengingsystems
Yearly tasks— in addition to quarterly tasks
Medical compressed air plant — including surgical
air plant
Appendix II — Procedurefor breaking into an existing

system page83
References page85
Other publications in this series page87
AboutNHS Estates page88
2
1.0 Scope
General
1.1 This volume of Health TechnicalMemorandum (HTM) 2022covers the

operational management and maintenance of systems for the supply by
pipeline of:
a. medical oxygen,
b. nitrous oxide,
c. nitrous oxide/oxygenmixture (50% vN),
d. nitricoxide (currently 1000 vpm in nitrogen),

e. medical compressed air for both respirableapplications and surgical
tools(at 400 kPa and 700 kPa respectively),
f. oxyger/carbon dioxide mixture (5% C02),
g. medical vacuum;
h. waste anaestheticgas scavenging systems (AGSS).
1.2 Throughout this volume, the phrase 'Medical Gas Pipeline Systems'
(MGPS) will be used as a generic term to describethese systems.
1.3 The guidance in this volume applies to all MGPS installed in healthcare
premises.
1.4 An MGPS is intended to be a safe, convenient and cost-effective

alternative to the use of "portable" cylinders,portable compressorsand
portablesuction units, providing gas orvacuum for clinical needs without the
associatedproblemsof porterage, noise and spacewastage.
1.5 The guidance given in this volume should be followed for all new
installations and refurbishment or upgrading of existing installations.
1.6 It is not necessary to apply the guidance retrospectivelyunlesspatient

or staffsafety wouldbe compromised. In this case, the guidance given in this
volume should be followed.
1.7 Existing installationsshould be assessed for compliancewith this

volume. A plan for upgrading the existing systemshould be prepared, taking
account of the priority for patientsafety. Managerswill need to liaise with
medical colleaguesand take account of the latest guidance published by the
Department of Health in orderto assess the system fortechnical
shortcomings.
1.8 This volume also contains details of the design equipment and
operational parametersof systems which form the basisfor Model
EngineeringSpecificationCli. This specification is intended for the
procurement of an MGPS. As technology develops, this HTM and Cli will be
revisedfrom time-to-time, but not necessarily simultaneously.Whichever
document is the most current takes precedence.
1.9 Whenever appropriate, British Standardsspecificationsshould be used.
3
1.0 Scope
Operational management
1.10 This volume of HTM 2022 covers such issues as statutory requirements,
functional responsibilities, operational policy, operational procedures,training
and communications,cylinder management, general safety, maintenance and
risk assessment — control of exposureto anaestheticagents, giving definitions
and working practices throughout.
1.11 This volume is intended for use by operational managers, engineers,

quality controHers (QCs), technicians, finance officers and otherprofessionals
involved in the day-to-day running of an MGPS.
1.12 The primary objective of this volume is to ensure the provision of safe
and reliableMGPS and their efficient operation and use. This objective will only
be achieved if the medical and nursing users and estatesstaff participate in the
introduction of an operational policy designed to minimise the hazardslikely to
arise from misuseof the system.
Other guidance
1.13 Guidance on provision of MGPS is given in the Health Building Notes.
4
2.0 Functional overview
Basic description of an MGPS

2.1 An MPGS comprisesa source of supply, pipeline distribution system.
terminal units(to which the user connects and disconnectsmedical
equipment) and a warning/alarm system.
2.2 Systems are provided for oxygen (02), nitrous oxide (N20), nitrous
oxide/oxygen(N20/02) mixture, medical air (MA4), nitric oxide (NO),
oxygen/carbondioxide (02/C02) mixture at 400 kPa for respirableapplications
and air at 700 kPa (5A7) for surgicaltoolapplications, and medical vacuum at
a pressure of400 mm Hg (53 kPa) belowatmospheric pressure. Anaesthetic
gas scavenging(AGS) is also provided where nitrous oxide is used for
anaestheticpurposes, but not when provided for analgesicpurposes.
2.3 A schematic diagram of a typical system is shown in Figure 1.
Throughout this volume, the phrase 2.4 Detailsof the quality requirements for medical gases are given in
Design considerations'is used as a Chapter 2 of 'Design considerations'. Theserequirements are summarisedas
generic termto describe the 'Design, follows:
installation, validationand . .
a. medical gases supplied from cylinder or liquid sources should comply
verification' volume ofHTM 2022
with the appropriate EuropeanPharmacopoeia(Ph Eur) monograph;
b. medicalair and pressure swing adsorber (PSA) systems should comply
with the requirements given in Table 1 of 'Design considerations'.
2.5 For oxygen systems the source of supply can be bulk liquid oxygen in a
vacuum insulatedevaporator (VIE), liquid or gaseous cylinders,or an oxygen
concentrator (PSA) system. When cylinder supply systems are used, the source
of supply comprisesa primary anda secondarybank/group of cylinders which
automatically change over to ensure continuityof supply.
2.6 An oxygen concentrator (PSA) system may be used to supply an

oxygen pipeline system, even though the percentageconcentration of oxygen
is lowerthan that derived from liquid or gaseous sources, typically 94% or
higher.
2.7 Nitric oxide, nitrous oxide, nitrous oxide/oxygenmixture and

oxygen/carbondioxide mixture supply systems are usuallysupplied from a
medical gas manifold system, in two banks. When full, nitrous oxide cylinders
contain or hold liquid and gaseous product with a liquid/gaseousboundary
and they must be used upright. Nitrous oxide can also be supplied in liquid
cylinders or VIEs. Nitrous oxide/oxygenmixture could also be supplied by
means of nitrous oxide and oxygen mixing systems, similar to those used for
the production of synthetic air.
2.8 For medical air systems for respirableuse, the source of supply can be
either a medical gas manifold system or a medical compressorsystem, or an
oxygen and nitrogenmixing system (referred to as synthetic air). When air
powered ventilators are used regularly, the consumption of air is high and
cylinder supply systems are not recommended.
5
2.0 Functionaloverview
2.9 Emergency/reserve manifold systems are provided for all gases and
medical air for respiratory application, except for nitric oxide.
2.10 Air or nitrogen for surgicaltools is required at 700 kPa. The supply It is also possibleto use nitrogenfor
can be provided by either a small automatic manifold system or a small surgical powertools, particularly
dedicated compressed air system. No reserve supply is required since the when nitrogen isavailable on the site
surgical air is not used in a life-support role. A free-standing cylinder for the production ofsynthetic air
complete with regulator should be available in the event of system failure.
2.11 A non-user adjustablepressure control unit is required to maintain

pressureover the range of flows required for differenttools. The control unit
can be installed at the supply systemor locally within the theatre control panel,
be mounted separatelyor be incorporated into theatre multi-purpose fittings.
2.12 Medical vacuum is provided by meansof a central vacuum plant.The

vacuum system should always be used in conjunction with vacuum control
units which include vacuum jars. In the event of inadvertent contamination of
the pipeline systems resulting fromvacuum jars overflowing, immediate action
is required to clean the systembefore any fluidsetc dry out. The procedure for
cleaning vacuum systems is given in Chapter 6 "Operational procedures".
2.13 Medical gases and vacuum are distributed throughoutthe hospital via
the pipeline distribution system to provide gas (and vacuum) at the terminal
units. Terminal units may be wall-mounted or installedwithin medical supply
units, for example operating roomfittings, bed-head trunkingand walling
fittingswhich include otherfacilities such as nurse-callsystems, connectionsfor
patientmonitoring, electrical services, audiosystems, etc.
2.14 The pipeline distribution system also includesarea valve serviceunits

(AVSUs). These permit isolation of certain parts of the system for servicing or
repair. They are also intended for use by the user, that is a nurse or clinician, in
an emergency. For example, in the event of a fire in a ward requiring patient
evacuation, or systemdamage to the extentthat serious gas loss occurred, the
valve should be turnedoff to prevent furthergas loss.
2.15 Warning and alarm systems are provided to give information to staff
responsiblefor the operation of the MGPS, changing cylinders,responding to
plant faults, and to medical staff responsiblefor the administration of medical
gases and clinical users.
6
(-I Recovely room
(D (ventilator & modular wall) Main operating room
3
0) (multi-service pendant
Intensive care & rigid pendant)
(1 Specialcare
(medical modular walls ProPOreIlVe
(zone valves & local alarm)
a) & gas alarm panel) preparationroom
a)
3.
0
-h
a)
a)
-
Infant care
(gas outlet
& gas alarm panel)
General care
(modular medical walls)
Pathology laboratory Accident& emergency

(suction & ambulance
equipment)
I..)
0
Manifold room
Orderly/porter's room Plant room
Tanker (changeover panel,
(master alarm panel) (vacuum plant relief valve assembly
(delivesing oxygen) & aIr compressor)
a
0
& cyli.cer bank)
m
3.0 Statutory requirements
Statutory requirements
3.1 It is the responsibility of the owners and occupiersof premises, general
managersand chiefexecutives,to ensure that their premises and the activities
carried out within them comply with all statutes.
The followingare the most important statutory requirements relevantto

MGPS:
a. Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (SI 1039: 1978); Health and
Safety at Work Northern Ireland Order 1978;
b. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations1992 (SI
1992/2051); SR 459: 1992 Management of Health and Safety at Work
Regulations(Northern Ireland) 1992;
c. Workplace (Health. Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 (SI
1992/3004); Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 1993 (SI (NI) 1993/87);
d. Provisionand Use of Work Equipment Regulations1992 (SI
1992/2932); Provisionand Use of Work Equipment Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 1992(SI (NI) 19/1993);
e. Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and DangerousOccurrences Regulations
1995 (SI 3163: 1985); SR 247: 1996Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and
DangerousOccurrences Regulations(Northern Ireland) 1986;
f. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 1994
(SI 3246: 1994); SR 374ControI of Substances Hazardousto Health
(COSHH) Regulations(NI) 1990; Control of Substances Hazardous to
Health (COSHH) RegulationsAmendment (NI) 1992, (S141: 1993);
g. Pressure Systems and TransportableGas Containers Regulations 1989

(SI 1989 No 2169); SI 471: 1991 Pressure Systems and Transportable
Gas Containers Regulations 1991;
h. Highly Flammable Liquid and Liquefied PetroleumGases Regulations(SI

1972No 917); Highly Flammable Liquid and Liquefied PetroleumGases
Regulations(NI) 1975(SR 256);
j. Medicines Act 1968 (this applies in NI);
k. Manual Handling Operations Regulations1992 (SI 1992/2793); Manual

Handling Operations Regulations(Northern Ireland) 1992 SI (NI)
535/1992;
m. Personal ProtectiveEquipment at Work Regulations 1992 (SI
1992/3139); Personal ProtectiveEquipmentat Work Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 1993 (SI 1993);
n. Electrical Equipment (Safety)Regulations 1994, SI 3260;
p. ElectromagneticCompatibility Regulations 1992 (SI 1992/2372).
8
Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974

The equivalent body in Northern 3.2 Employershave a general dutyunder this Act, so far as is reasonably
Ireland is the Department of practicable,to ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employees,
EconomicDevelopment, Health and residents and visitorsto their premises.Theseduties are legally enforceable
Safety Inspectorate and the Health & Safety Executive have successfullyprosecuted occupiersof
premisesunder this statute. It is incumbent upon both owners and occupiers
of premises to ensure that there is a management regime for the proper
design, installation and operational management of plant, equipment and
systems.
Management of Health and Safety at Work

Regulations 1992
3.3 The core requirementsofthe regulations are that employers make a
systematicassessment of risks in relation to the health and safety of their
employeesand others arising from work activities.
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations

1992
3.4 Most of these regulationsare to ensure a safe physicalworking

environment, for example adequate lighting, ventilation, spaceto perform
maintenance tasksand adequate access routes.
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations

1992
3.5 The aim of these regulations is to ensure safe work equipment and
safety its use. It includes "any machine, appliance, apparatus or tool", and
in
clearly covers medical gas pipeline installationsand equipment. It applies to all
equipment for use from 1 January 1993.
Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous

Occurrences Regulations1995
3.6 The regulations (RIDDOR) impose duties to reportaccidents resulting in

death or majorinjury. For example, exposureof patients to the wrong medical
gas from a pipeline, hazardsof sudden releaseof gas under pressure, burns
from cryogenic liquid.
Manual Handling Operation Regulations 1992

3.7 Theseregulations impose health and safety requirements with respect
to handling loads by human effort.
3.8 They apply to the handling of medical gas cylinders whether used for
portable applications or connected to a manifold system. The mass of the load
9
3.0 Statutoryrequirements
is not the only source of risk; the temperature and otherfactors should also be
taken into account, forexample, cryogenic liquidcontainers.
3.9 Management is responsiblefor assessing all the risks to avoid injury.
Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations

1992
3.10 Managersshould assessthe risk associated with the operation of

MGPS, for example the provisionof gloves for handling cylindersand cryogenic
liquidcontainers and eye and face protection when changing medicalvacuum
filters.
ElectromagneticCompatibilityRegulations 1992
3.11 Medical gas pipeline equipment, such as plant items and alarm Detailedguidance on requirementsin
systems, will have to meetstandards for emissionof, and immunity to, healthcarepremisesmaybe foundin
electromagnetic disturbance. HTM 2014— 'Abatement of electrical
interference'.
COSHH Regulations
3.12 Theseregulations apply to substancesthat have been classifiedas being

very toxic,toxic, harmful, corrosive or irritant. Specificduties are placed upon
employersand employeesin relation to these substances.
3.13 The specific responsibilitiesfor employersinclude assessment,

protection and control, monitoring, health surveillanceand information and
training.
3.14 The COSHH regulationsapply to MGPS in that inhalation anaesthetic OESs for nitrous oxide, enflurane,
agents and NitricOxide (NO) are substancesto which OccupationalExposure halothane and isoflurane came into
Standards(OESs) have being assigned. effect on 1 January 1995. The current
issueofEH4O should be consulted.
3.15 It is the manager'sresponsibilityto ensure that a proper systemof
assessment, protection and monitoring is implemented in orderto comply
with the regulations.The guidance given in Chapter 11 "Riskassessment —
control of exposureto anaestheticagents" and the 'Design considerations'
volume of this HIM in respect of anaestheticgas scavengingsystems (AGSS)
should be implemented as a matterof priority.
Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers

Regulations 1989
3.16 These regulationsapply to all steam systems and systems in which the
gas pressure exceeds 0.5 bar g; theytherefore apply to MGPS.
3.17 Where existing plant and systems are operating satisfactorilyand can NHSEstates has published a Health
be shown to be in a safe condition, then only minorchangesmay be Guidance Note, 'The Pressure Systems
required in orderto comply with the overall objective of these regulations. and TransportableGas Containers
This will be the casewhere MGPS comply with the recommendationsin this Regulations 1989 which explainsthe
HTM. application of the regulations within
the NHS. ISBNO 113216742.
10
3.18 The regulations define and extend the role of a "competent person".
The competent person is required to draw up or to certify a written schemeof
examination. This should cover the wholesystem, not merely the pressure
vessels.
The term "competent person" has 3.19 A written scheme of examination as specified by the 'Pressure Systems
been used in this HTM to refer to and TransportableGas Containers Regulations 1989' should be drawn up for
the fitter who carriesout the all MGPS. For new installationsthe consulting engineers may prepare the
installation or modification to the written scheme. An appropriate competent person should implement the
MGPS. For thepurposes ofclarity, written scheme and carry out the examinations required. For pressure vessels,
this person (fitter)is referredto as this would normally be carried out by an appropriate insurancecompany with
the competent person (MGPS). This specialistexpertise in this field.
is not thesame person referred to as
a competent person for the 3.20 Requirementsfor pressure vessels are included in these regulations.
purposesof the regulations, who is
normally a charteredengineer with
specialistexpertise and experience.
although in certain cases an
Highly Flammable Liquid and Liquid Petroleum Gas
incorporatedengineer maycari'y out Regulations 1972
the duties ofa competentperson.
3.21 These regulationsand the Home Office Fire PreventionGuide No 4
'Safe Use and Storage of Liquefied PetroleumGas in Residential Premises'
cover all usesof highly flammable liquids and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
The Health and Safety ExecutiveGuidance Note CS 4 'The Keeping of LPG in
Cylindersand SimilarContainers' should also be consulted.
3.22 The regulationsgive specific requirementsfor the use and storage of

flammable liquids and LPG. Chapter 8 "Cylinder management" also gives
details of cylinder handling and storage.
Medicines Act
3.23 Medical gases are classifiedas medicinal products under the Medicines
Act and are therefore subject to the same procurement and quality
proceduresas all othermedicinal products.
3.24 The quality controller (QC) is responsiblefor quality control of all

medicinal products and this will include medical gases.
3.25 Medical gases and vacuum should not be used for non-medical
purposesotherthan as a powersource for medical equipment and also for
testing medical equipment.
11
4.0 Functional responsibilities
General
4.1 Since the first edition of this HTM. there have been profound changes
in the management philosophy of the NHS. Many hospitals have becomeself-
governing trusts, many general practices have become fund-holders, and there
is a trendtowardsderegulation and contracting-out of services.
4.2 The approach chosen for this HIM is to identify the distinct functions
that need to be exercised and the responsibilitiesthat go with them. The titles
given hereare therefore generic.They describethe individual's role in
connection with MGPS, but are not intended to be prescriptivejob titles for
terms of employment. Indeed, some of the personnel referred to may not be
residentstaff but people employed by outside bodies and working on contract,
for example competent persons (MGPS).
4.3 Some staffwill have other responsibilitiesunconnected with MGPS and

in some cases the same individual may takeon more than one role.
4.4 In all cases, however, it is essential to identify an authorised person In order toavoidconfusion with other
who is responsiblefor the day-to-day management of the MGPS. authorisedpersons, such as the
authorisedperson forhigh voltage
4.5 The philosophy of this HTM is to invest the authorised person installations, the authorised person for
(MGPS) with the responsibility for seeingthat the MGPS is operated the MGPS willbe referred to as the
safely and efficiently. Only the authorised person (MGPS) can decide authorisedperson (MGPS) throughout
whetheran MGPS should be takeninto or outof use. this HTM.
Previous editions of HTM 22 defined a

responsibleofficer. As a resultof the
Management changesto the management structure
within the NHS, the duties of the
4.6 Management is defined as the owner, occupier, employer, general
responsibleofficerare now carried
manager,chiefexecutive, or otherperson (MGPS) who is ultimately out by the chiefexecutive, estates
accountablefor the safe operation of the premises.
manager or the authorised person
(MGPS) as appropriate. It is therefore
consideredthat the role ofthe
Key personnel responsibleofficeris no longer
required.
4.7 The followingare the key personnelwho have specific responsibilities
within the operational policy:
a. executivemanager;
b. estatesmanager;
c. authorised person (MGPS);
d. competent person (MGPS);

e. quality controller (QC);
f. designated medical or nursing officer.
12
4.0 Functionalresponsibilities
Executive manager
4.8 The executive manager is defined as the person with ultimate
management responsibility,including allocation of resources and the
appointment of personnel,for the organisation in which the MGPS are
installed.
4.9 Depending on the nature of the organisation, this role maybe filled by
the general manager, chiefexecutive, laboratory director or other person of
similar authority.
4.10 The formal responsibilityfor the MGPS rests with an executive

manager,although the authorised person (MGPS) retains effective
responsibilityfor day-to-day management of the MGPS.
4.11 The executive manager is responsiblefor the implementation of the

operational policy for the MGPS. He/sheshould ensure thatthe operational
policy clearly defines the roles and responsibilitiesof all personnel who may be
involved in the use, installation and maintenance of the MGPS. The executive
manager is also responsiblefor monitoring the implementation of the policy.
4.12 The executivemanager may delegate specific responsibilitiesto key

personnel; the extent of such delegation should be clearlyset out in the
operational policy, together with the arrangements for liaison and monitoring.
Estates management
4.13 The estatesmanagement includes responsibilityfor the integrityof the

MGPS. There may be one or more authorised and competent persons (MGPS)
with clear line management responsibility.
4.14 Estates management should include monitoring the implementation of

the operational policy for MGPS. In particular, the MGPS should complywith
the requirementsof this HTM and all work should be carried out in
accordance,wherepossible, with the permit-to-work procedures.
Authorised person (MGPS)

4.15 The authorised person (MGPS) is defined as that person designated by
the executivemanager to be responsiblefor the day-to-day management of
the MGPS at a particular site or sites. This includesthe issueof permits and
the operation of the permit-to-work procedure.The principal responsibilities
of the authorised person (MGPS) in respectof the permit-to-work procedure
are set out in paragraph 6.41.
4.16 All authorised persons (MGPS) should be appointed in writing by the

chiefexecutiveor general manager on the recommendation of a chartered
engineer who has specialistknowledge of MGPS. An individual assessment of
the suitability of the potential authorised person (MGPS) will normally be
required before such a recommendation can be made.
4.17 It is extremely unlikely that specialistcontractors would be able to carry

out the day-to-day duties of an authorised person (MGPS) and theyshould,
therefore, not be appointed as authorised persons(MGPS), except under
exceptional circumstances.
13
4.18 Procedures using permits for the authorisation of work requires the
fullest co-operation of all staff and their acceptanceof the responsibilities
involved. The authorised person (MGPS) should takethe lead in co-ordinating
the work and explaining fully the extentand duration of any disruption to the
service. He/she should also ensure that all contractors follow the procedures
set out in the permit.
4.19 The authorised person (MGPS) is responsible for ensuring that:
a. all designated nursing officers likely to be involvedare advised of the

estimated duration of the work and the interruption to the MGPS;
b. all terminal unitsaffected, that is, out of service, are appropriately

labelled.
4.20 On a large site, therecould be several authorised persons(MGPS). In

this case, the executivemanager should appoint one as the senior authorised
person (MGPS) with overall responsibilityfor the site. In any case,
arrangementsshould be made to ensure that an authorised person (MGPS) is
alwaysavailable during holidaysand otherabsences of the otherauthorised
person(s) (MGPS).
4.21 The authorised person (MGPS) is requiredto liaise closelywith other

professionals in various disciplines, and consequentlythe appointment should
be made known in writing to all interested parties. He/she should have direct
contact with the quality controller (QC), users and otherkey personnel.
4.22 The authorised person (MGPS) is responsiblefor assessing the

competency of all competent persons (MGPS) employed directly by the estates
department and maintaining a list of registeredcompetent persons (MGPS).
4.23 The authorised person (MGPS) is responsiblefor ensuring that work is The concept ofthe existing Quality
carried out only by approved specialistcontractors registeredto BS EN ISO AssuranceBSI ScheduleQAS
9000 with scope of registration defined as design, installation, 3720. 1/206 is currently under review.
commissioning and maintenanceof MGPS as appropriate. Evidence of Further guidance will be given when
current registration should be by sightof the correct certificate of appropriate.
registration.
Competent person (MGPS)

4.24 The competent person (MGPS) is the maintenance person or fitter The competent person as definedin
who carriesout the work on the MGPS. A list of his/her responsibilitiesand the Pressure Systems and
duties are set out in the 'Permit-to-work' section of Chapter 6 "Operational TransportableGas Containers
procedures". The competent person (MGPS) should have received Regulations 1989 is not the same
appropriate training and should be on a list of competent persons(MGPS). person as the competent person
(MGPS) definedin this HTM. The
4.25 The competent person (MGPS) maybe a member of a specialist formerisa chartered engineer
contractor's staffor may be a member of the estatesdepartment. Where responsiblefor drawingup a scheme
the competent person (MGPS) is a member of the estatesdepartment, the ofexamination for the system. The
authorised person (MGPS) is responsiblefor assessing the competency of latter is the maintenance person or
the competent person (MGPS) with respect to work on the MGPS. Where fitter who will carry out installation or
the competent person (MGPS) is a member of a contractor's staff, the modifications.
contractor is responsiblefor assessing the competenceof the competent
staffand maintaining a register of competent persons (MGPS).
14
Quality controller (QC)

4.26 The person designatedas the quality controller (QC) is responsiblefor
the quality control of the medical gases at the terminal unit and plant,such as
medical air compressors, oxygen concentrators and mixing plants. The
authorised person (MGPS) will need to liaise with the QC before an MGPS can
be taken into use; the specific tests and requirementsare set out in
Chapter 15 of 'Design considerations'.
4.27 The QC should have receivedtrainingon the verification and validation

of MGPS and be familiar with the requirementsof this HIM.
Designated medical or nursing officer

4.28 The designated medical or nursing officeris the person in each
department with whom the authorised person (MGPS) liaises on any matters
affectingthe MGPS and who would give permissionfor a planned
interruption to the supply.
4.29 It is essential that there is liaison between the medical andnursing

staff who use the MGPS and the authorised person (MGPS) in orderto ensure
that the MGPS is appropriate to their needs.
4.30 The authorised person (MGPS) should be consulted prior to the

purchaseof any medical equipment that will be connected to the MGPS.
4.31 The designated officershould give permission for any interruption to

the MGPS andshould sign the appropriate part of the permit. Normally the
permission of the designated medicalofficer is required, but in certain
circumstancessuch permission maybe given by the designated nurse. The
operational policy should clearly set out the requirementsfor such permission
(see Chapter 5).
4.32 The designated officeris responsiblefor ensuring that all staff are
aware of the interruption to the MGPS and which terminal units cannot be
used.
4.33 There should ideally be a designatedofficerfor every department; the

operational policy should list the designated personsand the arrangements for
cover due to absences of the designatedofficers.
4.34 The designated officeracts as the focal point for communications

related to the MGPS and adviseson any special requirements for his/her
department relating to MGPS, such as provision of emergency cylinders.
4.35 The designatedofficerwould normally carry out the appropriate action

in the event of an emergency;such actions should be set out in the
operational policy.
4.36 All designatedofficers should have received training on the MGPS

relevant to their departments and on the action to be taken in the event of an
emergency. The operational policy should set out the training requirements.
15
5.0 Operational policy
General
5.1 The executive manager is responsiblefor the overall operational policy

and its implementation.
5.2 The Chapter headings given in this volume of HTM 2022 and
subsequent Chapter guidance should enable an operational policy to be
prepared. Separatepolicies or proceduresare sometimesprepared to
supplement the operational policy. It is acknowledged that some trusts have
separate proceduresthat are referencedwithin the operational policy under
the control of specific departments, that is, cylinder management under the
control of the pharmacy department.
Operational considerations
5.3 The operational policy should ensure that users are aware of the
capacityof the system and any particular limitations, for examplea 400 kPa
medical air system supplied from a cylinder manifold system is unlikely to
sustain the use of a number of respiratory ventilators. Nursingand medical
staffshould also be aware of the purpose of alarm systems and of the course
of action to be taken in the event of an emergency alarm occurring. They
should be similarly familiarwith the purpose of area value service units (AVSUs)
and how to use them in an emergency.
5.4 MGPS provide gases at terminal units of a microbiological quality which

is adequate for virtually all applications.There may be exceptional
circumstances,for example patients receiving immuno-suppressivedrugs,
whereadditional precautions may be required. This can be most readily
achieved by incorporating an appropriate bacteria retentive filter in the
breathing system. Similarly, changes in patientventilation regimes can affect
the capacityof systems. For example, continuous positive airway pressure
(CPAP) ventilation can lead to significant consumption of oxygen.
5.5 Medical gases should not be used for non-medical purposesotherthan

as a test gas for medical equipment; except under specificcircumstancesas
defined in paragraph 2.6 of 'Design considerations'.
5.6 Medical air should be used as the powersourcefor medical equipment

such as ventilators or venturis; oxygen should not be used, except in an
emergency where an appropriate medical air system is not available.The
routine use of oxygen as a driving gas is to be avoided.
5.7 Medical gasessupplied fromcylinder or liquid sources comply with the

EuropeanPharmacopoeia(Ph Eur). Pressure swing adsorber (PSA) systems
comply with the requirements given in Chapter 6 of 'Design considerations'.
All othergasesor medical gas mixtureswill comply with the product licence
specification held by the gas supplier.
5.8 Where PSA systems are installed, medical staff will need to take
account of the reduced oxygen concentration when using medicalequipment,
and be aware of possible increases in concentration if the emergency/reserve
manifold is in operation.
16
5.0 Operationalpolicy
5.9 Staff responsiblefor plant operation should be aware of the activities

necessary to ensure the continued safe operation of the system and what
action should be taken in an emergency.The authorised person (MGPS) in
particular should takea lead in explaining to usersthe functionofthe system
and will have to be adequately trained and informed aboutthe system. (See
also paragraphs 7.1—7.7, on training.)
5.10 Where gas blendersare used at point of use, for example with patient
ventilators, the manufacturer's instructions should be followedwith regard to
operation and maintenance,to prevent contamination of a pipeline in the
eventof equipment malfunction. Further details are given in Chapter 10
"Maintenance".
BS ISO 11195 1995 'Gas mixers for 5.11 Some oldertypes of blending equipment can allow back flow from
medical use — stand-alonegas one pipeline to another, for exampleleading to oxygen enrichment of medical
mixers' was developed to avoid this air systems, or reduction of oxygen content in oxygen pipelines.When not in
problem. use, blenders should be disconnected.
5.12 There is growinginterest in the concept of mixing liquidoxygen and

liquidnitrogen on-site for the provision of medicalsynthetic air. This systemis
not yet developed in the UK healthcaremarket, but is currently in use in the
USA. Given the concerns about inner city pollution,this concept may offer
considerableadvantagesover conventional compressorsystems.
5.13 In some hospital ward areas medical gas equipmentis installed within
enclosuresor behind decorative panels to provide a more domestic
environment. In these cases it is essentialthat identification is maintained so
that staffare aware that equipment is available for patient use. Staff should
also ensure that gas suppliesare turned off, blenders are disconnectedand
suction jars removedand cleaned before any equipment is concealed.
5.14 Users of 700 kPa surgical systems should be aware of the stored
energy of gas in the connecting assembly(hose) and should take care to avoid
the hazard of rapid ejection of probes when disconnectingtools.
5.15 Portable suction unitsshould be used in areas wherethere is a

possibility that the vacuum systemcould become contaminated. Such areas
would include infectious diseases units. The need for portable suction units
should be discussedwith the control of infection officer.
5.16 Before any maintenance work is carried out on any medical

equipment, including portable suction units, the equipment should be
appropriately decontaminated and the procedures in Appendix II should be
followed.
5.17 Any work involving alterations,extensionsor maintenance work on the

systemshould be subject to the permit-to-work procedure set out in
Chapter 6 "Operational procedures", which should be under the control of
the authorised person (MGPS).
5.18 The responsibilityfor gas cylindersshould be clearly defined in the

operational policy. This would include the trainingof personnel in the correct
proceduresfor cylinder handling, storage and transportation. The procedures
in Chapter 8 "Cylinder management" should be followed.
5.19 Pharmacy staff have a responsibilityfor monitoring the quality of all

gasesdelivered, including PSA, compressedair and synthetic air. It maybe
appropriate to include warningsystems within the pharmacy department.
17
Emergency procedures
5.20 The operational policy should set out the proceduresto be followed in
the event of an emergency.This should include the following:
a. reporting an incident;
b. action to be taken, for exampleturning off isolation valves, use of
portable emergency cylinders;
c. liaison with otherstaff and departments;
d. calling out contractors.
5.21 All alarm systems should be clearlylabelled and all staff should be
trained in the appropriate action to be taken in the eventthat an alarm is
initiated.
Power supplyfailure
5.22 Power supply failure, changeoverto emergency and reinstatement of
normal supply may causecontrol systems on plant items, such as compressors
and manifolds, to change to a default condition. When such changeover
occurs, staffshould ensure that, for example, manifold cylinder contents
accord with the alarm signal status, and in the caseof compressorand PSA
systems the dutyand stand-by conditions are as selected.
Record drawings
5.23 The estatesdepartment should have accurateand up-to-date drawings

of the MGPS showing main sectionsand branches, departments served,
control valves, terminal unitsand alarm systems for each medical gas service.
Thesedrawings should be readily availableon site for use by any authorised
person (MGPS). Their location should be known by all authorised persons
(MGPS). Each isolating valveshould be individually identified by a unique
reference number. The appropriate referencenumber, correspondingto that
shown on the drawings, should be displayedat or on each isolating valve. The
drawingshould indicate the typeand make of terminal units.
5.24 A schematic diagram of the installation is usually helpful.
5.25 Whenadditions or alterations are to be made to existing installations Up-to-date drawings and recordsare
by a contractor, the authorised person (MGPS) should provide an adequate required under the Pressure Systems
number of printsfrom the master drawing as agreedwith the contractor. and TransportableGas Containers
On completion of the work, the contractor should return to the authorised Regulations 1989
person (MGPS) at least one copyof an amended print, indicating pipework
alterations etc. The authorised person (MG PS) should arrange for the master
MGPS drawingto be updated. In some cases it may be part of the contract
agreement that an "amended as fitted" drawing is provided by the
contractor to then replace the original master drawing.
Locking of valves and plantrooms for MGPS

5.26 All valves on the MGPS, except thosein plantrooms, should be secured
in such a waythat theycan normally be locked in the closed or open position.
In the case of thosevalves which may have to be operated in an emergency,
18
the locking system should be capable of beingoverridden. Medical gas

plantrooms should be keptlocked, except when work is actually in progressin
them.
5.27 plantrooms containing medical gas cylinders should be keptlocked,

with a prominently-displayednotice indicating the location of the spare key.
5.28 For access in the event of an emergency see paragraph 8.89.
5.29 The valves in the liquidoxygen installation need not be kept locked.
The gate to the liquidoxygen installation should be kept locked and an
indestructible and clear notice stating the location of the key should be
securelyfixedto each gate of the installation. The fire brigade should be
informed of the location of the key (see paragraphs 8.86—8.88).
5.30 The procedure in the operational policy for keeping keys should be
followed.
Monitoring of the operational policy

5.31 The executive manager is responsiblefor monitoring the operational
policy to ensure that it is beingproperly implemented. This should be carried
out on a regular basis, and the procedure for such monitoringshould be set
out in the operational policy.
5.32 The responsibilityfor monitoring specific aspects is delegated to the

appropriate key personnel. For example, the responsibilityfor monitoring the
implementation of the permit-to-work procedure would normally be
delegated to the estate manager.The details of such delegation should be set
out in the operational policy.
Contractors
5.33 All contractors should comply with the trust or hospital safety policy.
This should be clearly stated in the operational policy.
The concept of the existing Quality 5.34 Work on MGPS should only be carried out by specialistfirms registered
Assurance BSISchedule, QAS to BS EN ISO 9000with scope of registration defined as design, installation,
3720.1/206. 1A is currently under commissioning and maintenanceof MGPS as appropriate. Evidenceof current
review. Furtherguidance will be registration should be by sightof the correct certificate of registration.
given when appropriate.
5.35 The operational policy should set out the responsibilitiesfor monitoring
the workof contractors. This would normally be co-ordinated by the
authorised person (MGPS). The proceduresfor calling out a contractor,
particularly in the eventof a fault or an emergency, should be set out in the
operational policy.
Medical equipmentpurchase
5.36 The authorised person (MGPS) should be consulted prior to the
purchaseof any medical equipment which will be connected to the MGPS.
This is to ensure that the MGPS has sufficient capacityand can deliver the
required flows at the specified pressures. It is particularly important that the
authorised person (MGPS) should be consulted before any new equipment,
19
such as patient ventilators, is connected to the medical air 400 kPa system, to
ensure that the system capacityis not exceeded. Certain ventilators can also
have a significant effect on the capacityof oxygensystems, particularly those
operating under continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).
5.37 The policy should state the proceduresto be followedand the

personnel who need to be consulted before a new item of medical equipment
is connected to the MGPS.
20
6.0 Operational procedures
Permit-to-work procedure
Introduction
6.1 Safety rules and proceduresfor MGPS are necessary to ensure that the
integrityand performance ofthe system is maintained.
6.2 The purpose of the permit issued under this permit-to-work system is
to safeguardthe integrityof the MGPS. It is not intended as a permit to
protectthe safety of staff. In some cases there may be additional safety
proceduresto be followed under the Health and Safety at WorketcAct 1974
or the health authority's safety policy or COSHH.
6.3 A permit-to-work should always be issued before any work is carried

out on the MGPS. The purpose of sucha permit isto identifythe work to be
carried out and to provide documentary evidence that a system is only taken
backinto use when all tests have been satisfactorilycompleted.
6.4 The permit-to-work procedure is one of the responsibilitiesofthe

estates department. The authorised person (MGPS) who has day-to-day
responsibilityfor the MGPS will be responsiblefor the implementation of the
permit-to-work procedure.
Scope
General
6.5 The permit-to-work procedure is applicable to the servicing,repair,

alteration and extensionof existing MGPS within a hospital, and any action,
such as the closure of an isolating valve, which restricts the supply. This means
that permits should also be used before any major itemof central plant, for
example manifold, control panel, compressor,or vacuum pump(including any
stand-by plant), is isolated priorto servicing, repair or overhaul. A specimen
permit form is given in Figure 2.
6.6 The permit will remain in forceuntil the work is completed and the
MGPS is taken back into use, in accordancewith the procedure.
Emergencies
6.7 In the event of an emergency such as a fire or a majorleak, a doctor

or nurse should isolate the affected section by closing the emergency isolating
valves or area valve service units (AVSUs). He/she should notify the authorised
person (MGPS) as soon as possible.
6.8 The emergency procedure set out in the hospital authority's

operational policy should be followed.
21
05
F'J 0
NI Medical G.e Pipeline Systems- PERMIT-TO.WORK FORM - hi accordance with HTM 2022
While copy to CP Plnft pualnlt ydo. 95/ 3 0 7 2 6 0
Otigdesl(Yeliowcopy ,J ogk retained be/ nwa)5p4
I'-, HOSPITALINHSTRUST: ________________________________________________________ 8I
PART 1 PART5 I declare that the wo. da.c.lb.dhi Pert 21. nowcompl.5..
Vt Verification. 0
l..I of hazard: Hezardlevel:________________ The following taste haveheart satisfactorily carried out in accordance with HTM 2022 ValidatIon and
The Authodaid Parson to Indicatethe 0I
The appropriatetast forms have been complatad In accordanc, with HTM 2022 Good Practice Gulda.
(circle as appropriate) The Authorisad Person )MGPSIto initial the epp!opriat. spaces. If not carried out, mark box Nit)'.
The Authorised Person to indicate the scope of the proposedwork:
CD APhiltial Pfpelln. system tests APtnitlai PIpess .yst.m tests APInidal R
N2O/O MA4 SA7 Vacuum AGS Pipelinecarcase teats
Medical Gas System: Oxygen N,O a
Leakage NIST connectors C
CD Areas affected: Labelling& marking 0
(a
Date: _______________ Area valve service unite System p.rforrnanca
B Authorised Person (MOPS): Name (print): ____________ Signature: _________________ SleevIng& Supports
Cross-connection Supply systems tests
The above system may be taken out of service for a period of approximately: ____________ hours/dave ___________ Leakage
0 Cross-connection Plow & pressure drop Pressure safaty valves —
from date end time):
0 APinitlal Mechanical function Warning aystama
Designatedmedicel or nursing
Date: _______________ Gualtylatter systemteat)
Gee specificity As-fitted drawings
Time: ______________ Perticuistecontamination —
0 officer: Name (print): ___________ Signature:
3 Na me Signature: Date:
Autho,iaed Person(MGPSI: (print):
PART 2 WORK TO BE CARRKDOUT
Date: ________________ PART6 FOR COMPLETION AFTER MEDIUM OR LOW HAZARD WORKSONLY
nec: ________________________
Specification no: _______________________Drawing
Identity tests has, bean eedsfactay5adout for medium hazard work ant .
The systernlsl are isolated as follows at:
APkIItd.1 td.ntify teats APks&dsl
Identity tests Identity taste
N2O/O SA7
Oxygen
MA4 Vacuum
The N20 —
following work ahould be carried out:
All other teats have been satlafectorily carried out in accordancewith l4TM 2022 ValidatIon and Veriflcetion end
The system may be taken kite ua.,
appropriatetest forms )HTM 2022 Good Practice Guide)have been completed.
Signature: _____________ Date:
Authoflsed Person IMGPSI: Name(print):
PART7 FOR COMPLETION AFTER HIGHHAZARD WORKSONLY

NO OTHER WORK SHALLBE CARREDOUT
Validation and Verification.
Identity end quality teats havebeen eacistactorlly carried out in accordancewith firM 2022
in accordance with HTM 2022 Good Practice Guide.
Permit no: Issued to: Date: _______________ 'The appropriateteat forms havebeen completed
Other permits-to work in use are:
OC should initial the spaces as appropriate. If a test is not carried Out, mark box HID'.
Name Signature:_________________ Date: _______________ The AP (MOPS) and the
Authorised Person)MGPSI: Iprintl: ____________
AP taking over Name lprintl: ____________ Signature: _________________ Data: _______________
PART3
I accept responaibllltyforcarrying out tIre work as indicatedabove.

of the systam,
No attempt will be madeby ma or by any personunder my control to work on any other part
I am conversantwith the relevant fire and aefaty requirements.
fully
The system may be taken Into use
Signature:_______________ Date:
Narrre Signaturo: ____________ Date: _______________ AufhoriaadPersonIMGP$l: Name Iprintl: -
Competent Person IMGPSI: Iprintl:____________
Name Signature:_______________ Date:
NameIprintl: ___________ Signature: ___________ Date: ______________ Quality ControllerlOCI: Iprinti: -
CP taking over:
PART8
PART 4
the standardsrequired. I declare that all sapects of the work have been explained to me, including any modifications ainca the original Instructions
I declare thatt have completed the work identified In Part 2 to
out were approved.I herebyaccept the systemback into servrce and l will undertake to advise all the appropriatestatf chat the
I have advised the AuthOrrsed Person IMOPSI of all work carried
service hss been reinstated.
and provideddetsils of the instsllstlon. Date:
Designatedmedicalor
______________ Time:
Name Iprinti: Signature: Data: nursing officer: Nsme Ipriotl: ____________________________Signature:
CompetentPersonIMGPSI:
6.0 Operationalprocedures
Workby contractors
6.9 Permitsshould be issued to any of a contractor's competent staff and

artisans who are to be engaged in work on the MGPS. Contracts should be
placed only with firms who are appropriately registeredas discussed in
paragraphs4.23 and 5.34. Further guidance on contractors' competenceetc
is given in the "Preparation of a maintenancecontract"section of Chapter 10
"Maintenance".
6.10 Neitherthe department nor the health authority should be expected to

test the competence of the contractor's staff. The contractor should maintain
a register of competent persons.
Routine changing ofcylinders
6.11 Permitsare not necessary for the routinereplacement of cylinders on

manifolds nor for the recharging of vacuum insulatedevaporators (VIEs),
provided there is no danger of the supply being disrupted when these tasks
are undertaken.
Plannedpreventative maintenance (PPM) work
Where visualinspectionshave been 6.12 A permit should be issued for all PPM work on the MGPS. This includes
carried out historicallyand will all examinationswhere no interruption to the serviceis anticipated.
continue to be carried outby the
trust'sin-house staff, existing
Levels of hazard
documentary evidence ofwork
completion maybean alternative to 6.13 Wheneverwork is to be carried out on the MGPS, it is assigned a level
the permitas agreed with the
authorisedperson (MGPS).
of hazard dependent upon the nature of the work. The authorised person
(MGPS) assessesthe hazard level at the time of preparing the permit and if in
doubt he/she will assess the hazard at the higher level.The higher the hazard
the greater the care required in the re-commissioningprocedure. Three levels
of hazard are defined as follows:
a. high hazardwork: work on any part of the MGPS that requires
cuttingor brazing. Cross-connection,performance, identityand quality
tests will be required before the MGPS is taken back into use;
b. medium hazard work: work on two or more adjacent terminal units

(excludingvacuum) which do not comply with BS 5682. Performance
and identitytests will be required before the MGPS is taken back into
use;
c. low hazardwork: work on terminal unit (in addition to vacuum)

which comply with BS 5682. A performance test only will be required
before MGPS is taken back into use.
6.14 Terminal units which comply with BS 5682 comprise components

which are gas-specificand it is therefore not possible to miss-assemble the
terminal unit in such a way that the wrong gas is delivered.This is the
principle on which the levels of hazard are based.
23
6.15 The gas-specificfeature can be achieved by meansof indexing pins, When terminal unitsto 85 5682 are
gas-specificshapes etc. During reassembly the gas-specificfeatures should dismantled forrepair orreplacement
be checked to ensure they have not been damaged. of the main workingcomponentsit
is not possibleto re-assemble them
6.16 Terminal units complying with BS 5682 include an automatic with parts designed for anothergas
isolating valve and some earlier terminal unitsinclude a manual valve. seivice, except by a wilful act on the
part of the fitter, for example by
6.17 When working on individual terminal unitsfitted with an integral cutting or removing
isolating valve or check valve (which operateswhenthe socket assembly is non-interchangeability keys. It is thus
removed), it is not necessary to interruptthe supply to other adjacent notpossible to supply gas to a
terminal units. patientby inserting a probe into the
incorrect terminal unit, for example
6.18 Terminal unit termination blocks should not be left unattended with an assemblycomprising an oxygen
the socket currently removed unless a blocking plate has been attached. pipe termination block and a nitrous
oxide outlet. Partscan become
6.19 Outlets which have been disconnectedfrom their supply (cut and damaged or omittedduring
capped supplies) should be removedor fitted with full disc-size prohibition assemblyand continuing vigilance is
labels. Long runs which mayhold stagnant gas and cannot be purged required. Some early terminal units
should be avoided. notcomplying with 85 5682 do not
include serviceisolating or check
valves.
Duties
6.20 A summary of the duties and responsibilitiesof personnel involved is

given Chapter 4 "Functional responsibilities".
in
Permission for interruption or restriction of supply
621 Permission should be obtained before work is carried out to allow

designated medicalor nursing officers adequate time to movepatients etc.
except in an emergency.
6.22 The authorised person (MGPS) should describeto the designated

medical or nursing officerthe extent to which the MGPS will be restricted or
interrupted whilethe work is in progress and should indicate the level of
hazard involved. He/she should obtain agreement for this restriction or
interruption by meansof a signature on Part 1 of the permit. He/she should
also assist as necessary, to ensure that a service is maintained whilstthe MGPS
is disrupted.
Liaisonwith medical and nursing officers and quality controller
6.23 The proceduresallowwork to proceed on an MGPS only with the

knowledge of the QC (for high hazardworkonly), and the permissionof either
the designated medicalor nursing officerwould be competent to grant
permission in all cases where the authorised person (MPGS) indicates in Part 1
of the permit-to-work that the work is of a low hazard nature. No work of a
high hazard nature should normally be permitted without the permission of
the designated medical officer.
6.24 The permission of the designated medical officershould normally be

obtained before any interruption is causedto the supply of a gas affecting
more than one ward or department of a hospital. This approval may be given
by a designated nursing officer in circumstancesto be agreed locally and
subject to periodic review by those concerned. Theseagreements should be
recorded in the operational policy, as described in Chapter 5 "Operational
policy".
24
6.25 There should be general agreement between the authorised person

(MGPS), and the medical and nursing officers on the length of advance notice
which will normally be required before interruptions of the MGPS may be
made. This might typically be 48 hours for fully pre-plannedwork. These
agreements should be recorded in the operational policy.
Isolation of plantand pipeline system
6.26 The authorised person (MGPS) is responsiblefor witnessing the

isolation and for making safethe plant or systemto be worked on.
6.27 No section of an MGPS should be worked on, or pressure tested,

unlessit is adequately isolated from any section in use or availablefor use.
6.28 Physical isolation, by meansof a break point at the "supply"end of

the section to be worked on, is essential,except in the caseof work on
terminal unitsonly.An AVSIJ may be used for this purpose, as described in
'Design considerations'. The procedure for installing an additional branch is
given in Appendix Il.
Umits of authorisation
6.29 There should be no commencementof work on any MGPS until the

designated medical officeror designated nursing officer has given written
permission,on the permit, for the work to takeplace.
6.30 Permitsshould only be issued immediately before work is to start and

theyshould only be issued to a competent person (MGPS).
6.31 The permit should provide concise and accurate information about
whenand where it is safe and when and where it is dangerous to work. It
should provide a clear statement of the work to be done. The estimated time
for completion should also be given, but this is for guidance purposesonly,
and should not prejudice the completion of the work in complete safety.
6.32 The scope of the actual work done should be limited to that described
in Part 2 of the permit and no one should change the description of the work.
In the eventof a change in the programme ofwork, the permit should be
cancelledand a new one issued. This should be cross-referencedto the
original Part 1 approval. If the change is no longer covered by Part 1 approval,
a completely new permit should be initiated.
6.33 A competent person (MGPS) accepting a permit is, from that moment,
responsiblefor the safe conduct of the work within the limits of the permit,
but the work will be subject to the usual supervisionby the authorised person
(MGPS) and proper commissioning procedure on completion. The competent
person (MGPS) should not allowhimself/herselfto be persuaded into breaking
the conditions of the permit. He/sheshould make himself/herselffully
conversantwith its terms and requirements,and should give sufficient and
clear instructions to personsworkingunder him/her.
Scope of permit
6.34 The extent of the work specified in Part 2 of the permit should not be
amended. If changesto the work are required, a new permit should be
issued.
25
6.35 Any errors may be corrected and initialled.
6.36 The permit remainsin force until Part 8 is completed.
Permit issuingauthorityand control of permit books
6.37 The issuing authority should be the authorised person (MGPS). Permits
may only be issued by an authorised person (MGPS).
6.38 A new book of permits should not be taken into use until the old book
is completely used and accounted for.
6.39 The permits should be consecutivelynumbered.
Formsof permit
6.40 The permit is to be in book form, numbered consecutively, with two

coloured tear-outcopiesfor use as follows:
a. copy 1 to the competent person (MGPS); Additional photocopies should be

taken for contractors.
b. copy 2 to the QC;
c. original retained in book,which remainswith the senior authorised
person (MGPS) forthe site.
Responsibilitiesof the authorised person (MGPS) for the permit-to-

work procedure
6.41 The responsibilitiesof the authorised person (MGPS) are as follows:
a. obtaining permissionfor interruption of supplies and affixing "do not

use" or other prohibition notices;
b. preparing permit;
c. supervising isolation of section on which work is to be carried out;
d. explaining details of work to competent person (MGPS);
e. supplying drawings of existing sectionsof the installation "as fitted";
f. supervisingperformance, cross-connectionand identity tests of
completed work as appropriate;
g. supervisingpurging with working gas;

h. final testing, assisted by the QC in the caseof high hazard work;
j. final testing in the caseof low and medium hazard work;

k. restoring service;
m. supervisingor making final connection of any extension;
n. notifying designated medicalofficeror designated nursing officerof
completion of work and removal of "do not use" notices;
p. obtaining corrected copy of drawings;
q. supervisingamendmentsof office copy of "as-fitted" drawings;

r. retaining original copyof permit and all permit books;
s. obtaining designated medical or nursing officers signature on Part 8
and return the system to service.
26
Responsibilitiesof the competent person (MGPS) forthe permit-to-

work procedure
6.42 The responsibilitiesof the competent person (MGPS) are as follows:
a. signing Part 3 of the permit, acknowledging responsibilityfor the work;

b. obtaining and understanding instructions on work to be done;
c. isolating section of system on which work is to be carried out, under
direct supervisionof authorised person (MGPS);
d. carrying out the work;
e. carrying out system integritytests on completed work under direct
supervision of authorised person (MGPS);
f. signing Part 4 on both the original permit (held by the authorised
person (MGPS)) and the copy 1 declaring that the work is completed as
indicated on the permit.
Responsibilitiesof the designated medical and nursing officers
6.43 The responsibilitiesof the designated medical and nursing officers are
as follows:
a. signing Part 1 of the permit to agree that the systemcan be taken out
of use for servicingor maintenance;
b. advising otherclinical staff that the system is not availablefor use;
c. on completion of the work, signing Part 8 of both the original and copy
of the permitaccepting the system back into use;
d. advising clinical colleaguesand departmental heads that the system is
available for use.
Responsibilitiesof the qualitycontroller (QC)
6.44 The QC is involved in testing after high hazard work only. The
responsibilitiesof the QC are as follows:
a. identifythe test equipment required, depending uponthe specific
servicewhich has been disrupted;
b. carry out final identityand quality tests on the systems;

c. sign Part 7 of the original permit(held by the authorised person
(MGPS)) and copy2 declaring that the testingis completed as indicated
on the permit.
Preparation and issueof permit-to-work
6.45 The authorised person (MGPS) should prepare Part 2 of the permit.
Hefsheshould identify, from the MGPS drawings, the work to be doneand
the meansof isolation, unlessthe work to be done is of a low hazard nature.
6.46 Except in the caseof low hazard work, he/she should normally
re-check the permit whilst looking at the actual installation to make sure that
the possibilityof unexpected cross-connectionshas been carefully considered.
He/she should give a brief summary ofthe work and information on other
relevant permits which are in force. If work is to be carried out only on
terminal unitswhich incorporate integral isolating valves, he/sheshould enter
27
in the "isolation" spaceon the permit: "terminal units have integral isolating
valves". The authorised person (MGPS) should affix "do not use" or other
prohibition notices to terminal units and plant as appropriate.
6.47 Wherever possible drawing referencenumbers should be identified on

the permit. A copy of the relevant drawing should be attached to the permit.
6.48 The competent person (MGPS) should read the permit, question
anything that he/shedoes not understandand then sign Part 3, to certify that
he/she has read and understood it.
6.49 Copy 1 should then be placed in a protective cover and given to the
competent person (MGPS). The original and copy2 should remain in the book.
6.50 The authorised person (MGPS) should ensure that the competent
person (MGPS) is aware of the need for fire and othersafety precautions,
particularly if any brazing is to be carried out, and that permits-to-work which
maybe required for safety reasons, for example work in confined spaces, have
been issued.
Action on completion of work
6.51 The competent person (MGPS) should sign Part 4 of the original permit,
to certify that work has been completed, andcall the authorised person
(MGPS) to examine and test the installation. The competent person (MGPS)
should also sign Part 4 of copy 1 of the permit for his/her records.
6.52 The authorised person (MGPS) should satisfy himself/herselfthat the

work has been satisfactorily completed and should supervise the testing of
valve tightness, pressure, cross-connection,flow rate and deliverypressure, and
of the alarm system, in accordancewith the recommendationsof 'Design
considerations'.
6.53 On satisfactorycompletion of all tests, the authorised person (MGPS)

should supervise the reconnection of the isolated system to the main system
and purge with the working gas.
6.54 The authorised person (MGPS) should then complete Part 5 of the
permit on the original permit.
6.55 In the caseof low and medium hazard work, the authorised person
(MGPS) should complete Part 6 of the permit, when satisfiedthat the system
may be takeninto use.
6.56 For high hazard work, the authorised person (MGPS) and the QC
should complete Part 7 of the permit, when satisfiedthat the MGPS may be
taken into use.
6.57 In the caseof highhazard work, the authorised persons (MGPS) should
invitethe QC to assist him/her in carrying out the identityand quality tests and
accepting the MGPS for use.
6.58 Copy 2 should be given to the QC.
6.59 The authorised person (MGPS) should informthe designatedmedical or

nursing officerthatthe work is completed and that the MGPS is now available
for use, and the designated medical or nursing officershould sign Part 8,
accepting the pipeline back into service.
28
6.60 The authorised person (MGPS) should remove any "do not use" or
other prohibition notices.The authorised person (MGPS) should retain the
book with the completed original permit.
Tests after work on the MGPS
General
6.61 The objective of testing is to ensure that all the necessary safety and
performance requirementsof the MGPS will be achieved. To verify this, four
types of test are specified:
a. cross-connection;
b. performance;
c. identity;
d. quality.
6.62 The actual tests required depend on the level of hazard of the work
which has been carried out.
6.63 Full details ofthe tests, test equipment, procedure and responsibilities
are given in 'Designconsiderations'. The test requirements are summarised
belowfor completeness.
Cross-connection tests
6.64 Following any work which involvescutting or brazing, each system in

turn, including vacuum, should be checked to ensure that thereis no cross-
connection between pipelines for differentgasesand vacuum.
6.65 Cross-connectiontests must not commence until all installationsare

complete and all AVSUs must be open. The system under test must be at
pipeline distribution pressure, and all othersystems must be at atmosphere
pressure.
In critical areas, it is recommended 6.66 The test involvescarrying out a check of all terminal unitswhich may
that there are at least two AVSUs have been affected by the work, to ensure that gas flowsfrom every terminal
serving each area. Where pendants unit of the system under test, but that thereis no gas flow from any other
are installed, these maybe terminal unit.
pneumatically controlled using
medical air. In this case, both the
Performancetests
terminal unitsin the pendantand
the pneumatic functionmay be
6.67 Performancetests include tests at each terminal unit to ensure that the
connected with three separatenon-
correct flow is delivered at the specified pressure and tests to demonstrate the
interchangeablescrewthread(NIST)
correct operation of the warningand alarm systems.
connectors,and supplied from two
differentAVSUs. Althoughit would
notbepossible to connect the Identity
wronggas during the cross-
connection tests, a check shouldbe 6.68 The identity of the gas must be tested at every terminal unit which
made to ensure that the correct may have been affected by the work, and the composition of all compressed
AVSU is controlling the correct gases must be positivelyidentified.
NISTs.
29
6.69 An oxygen analyseris used for 02 and 02/N20 mixture and medical and
surgical air. A nitrous oxide analyseris used for N20. The requirements are
given in 'Design considerations'.
Quality
6.70 The quality of the gas must be tested at every terminal unit which may
have been affected bythe work.The objective of the tests is to establish
whether the pipeline has been contaminated during the work.
Monitoringand testequipment
6.71 All monitoring and test equipment used for MGPS should be purchased
to the appropriate quality standard and instrumentation should be calibrated in
accordancewith NAMAS Standards.
Procedure for cleaning contaminated vacuum systems

General
6.72 The use of vacuum controlled unitswith overflow protection devices is

essential to avoid contaminating the systemwith aspirated bodily fluids.
6.73 On rare occasionscontamination can occur if, for example, a float valve
has been poorly maintained and fails. In such an event it is essentialto act
promptly to clean the systembeforethe fluidsdry out and clog the system.
6.74 The procedure will involve aspirating a cleaning solution of detergent

from the contaminated terminal unit and several otherterminal unitsto clean
the system.
Cleaningprocedure
6.75 The followingcourse of action is recommended:
a. the authorised person (MGPS) should be advised immediately of the

incident so that downstream terminal units, if possible, can be taken
out of service under the permit-to-work procedure;
b. establish, in consultation with the surgical or clinical practitioners, the
possible volume of contaminant and its substance;
c. consult the infection control officerto ascertainthe level of

microbiological hazard, including the pathogenicity and persistenceof
any infectious agents;
d. from a study of the "as-fitted" drawings, identify any downstream and
upstream terminal units likely to become flooded during the cleaning
process;
e. prepare about 10 litres of hot water with 1% Teepol or similar, for

example Savlon;
f. aspirate about 1 litre of the solution in a terminal unit immediately
upstream. Insert a vacuum control unit and adjust to a small flow;
g. aspirate abouthalf the solution throughthe contaminated terminal

unit and insert a vacuum control unit and adjust as in (f);
30
h. aspirate about ½ litre of solution throughthe next ten or so

downstream terminal unitsand connect a vacuum control unit to each
and adjust as in (f);
j. check otherdownstream terminal units for presenceof solution. Where

such evidence is found, repeat (h);
k. repeat (f) to (j) using clean hot water.

Note: at this stage the system can be taken back into clinical use;
m. leave the systemrunning and check the plant for evidenceof fluid in
the filter sight glasses;
n. wherefluid is present, change the bacterial filtersin accordancewith
paragraphs 10.113—10.116;
p. monitor the systemover the nextfew days. with the vacuum control
units connected, for presenceof liquid in the system.(The systemwill
eventually dry out as the liquidvapour pressure equilibrates to the
vacuum in the pipeline, but this may take several days.)
31
7.0 Training and communications
Training
7.1 It is essential that personnel at all levelshave a sound general
knowledge of the principles, design and functions of MGPS. They should be
trainedon those specific systems forwhich theywill be responsible.
7.2 A trainingprogramme should be establishedfor all staff responsiblefor

MGPS. All training should be recorded and reviewed regularly.
7.3 All authorised and competent persons(MGI'S) should have satisfactorily

completed an appropriate trainingcourse before theyare appointed. Suitable
coursesare run by specialistconsultants and by specialistcompanies.
7.4 Satisfactorycompletion of an appropriate training course is not in itself

sufficient for appointment as an authorised or competent person (MGI'S). All
staff should have sufficient experienceand be familiar with their particular
installationsbefore they can be appointed as authorised or competent persons
(MGI'S).
7.5 All authorised persons(MGPS) should be re-assessed everythreeyears

and should have attended a refresheror othertraining course priorto such re-
assessment. The recommendationfor appointment or re-appointment as an
authorised person (MGPS) should be made by a charteredengineer who has
specialistknowledge of MGI'S.
7.6 The QC should also receivespecifictraining covering the responsibilities

and duties which he/shewill be requiredto carry out. It may be appropriate for
the QC to attend part or all of the training courses for authorised persons
(MGI'S).
7.7 The medical and nursing staffwho use the MGI'S should be trained in
the use of the system.This training should include the practical use of the
system,emergencyand safety procedures.This is particularly relevant to the
designatedmedicaland nursing officers, who may need to receive more
detailed trainingin specificareas such as emergencyprocedures. The
executivemanagershould ensure that all staff have received this training prior
to using the MGPS andthat refresher coursesare arranged at least annually.
Communications
7.8 All staff who are involved in the use, installation or maintenance of
MGI'S should be aware of the operational policy and their specific
responsibilities.
7.9 The operational policy should set out the meansof communications
between the various key personnel.It should, for example, define those
departments which need to be informed of work on the MGI'S, the personnel
to be notified and whethersuch information is to be verbal or in writing.
7.10 The action to be taken in the event of a fault should be set out with a
clear meansof reporting the faultto the estates management.
32
8.0 Cylinder management
Cylinder storage and handling
General
8.1 This section is concernedwith the operational aspectsof medical gas

cylinders, including storage, handling and general safety, and applies also to
the storage and handling of pathology and industrial cylinders.
8.2 This operational guidance incorporates the guidance given in HEI 163
and WKO (85) 1.
8.3 This guidance representsthe minimum standard applicable to all new

installations. The general principlesshould be followedon existing installations
so far as is reasonablypracticable.
8.4 Existingstorage facilities should have been designed to comply with

the recommendationsof HTM 16, HTM 2022 or earlier editions of HTM 22 as
appropriate. Gas cylindersshould have been stored in eithera storeroom
which is part of the health building or a separate, specially-constructed
building, both areas being used exclusively for medical gas cylinders.These
stores will usually be satisfactory,provided that the ventilation is adequate.
8.5 Cyclopropane is no longer availableas a medical gas.
8.6 The decanting and fillingof medical gas cylinders is subject to the
Pressure Systems and TransportableGas Containers Regulations 1989 and the
Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. Unlessthe healthcare organisation
has a relevant manufacturer's licenceand productlicence, and can
demonstrate compliance with the Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas
Containers Regulationsi989, these activities should not be carried out under
any circumstances.Decanting is not recommended, but if absolutely
unavoidable,and the above criteria can be met, the adviceof the gas supplier
should be sought and implemented.
Classificationof gas cylinders
8.7 In this document, gas cylinders are classifiedinto two main categories
Cylinders from these two categoriesmust
— medical and non-medical.
never be mixed, either in storage or in use.
8.8 Gas cylindersare subdivided into groups, depending on the major risk
associatedwith the cylinder contents as follows:
a. Group 1 — flammable;
b. Group 2 — oxidising;
c. Group 3 — toxic or corrosive (the contents may also be flammable or
oxidising);
d. Group 4 — others (including inert gases).
33
8.0 Cylindermanagement
The most common gases, grouped as above, likely to be used in health

buildings are shown in the table below.
Table 1 Classificationof gas cylinders
Group classification of gas cylinder Medical gases Non-medical gases

contents
1 Flammable (Red diamond on acetylene; LPG (eg propane,

label) butane); STG (synthetic town gas)
methane, natural gas; hydrogen
2 Oxidisingand/orsupports oxygen; nitrous oxide oxygen

combustion oxygen/nitrous oxide nitrous oxide
(Yellow diamond on label) oxygen/carbondioxide oxygen/nitrous oxide mixtures
oxygen/helium mixtures
3 Toxic andcorrosive
3.1 Toxic and/or corrosiveand ammonia; ethylene oxide (C2H40);

flammable carbon monoxide; C2H40/C02
mixtures; >6% C2H40
3.2 Toxic and/orcorrosiveand nitric oxide mixtures; sulphur

oxidising dioxide; chlorine
3.3 Toxic and/orcorrosive only ethylene oxide/halo-carbon

mixtures <15% C2H40); certain
conditions only
ethylene oxide/carbon dioxide
mixtures <6% C2H40
4 Others including inert, but carbon dioxide; helium; medical compressed air; carbon dioxide;
excluding toxic or corrosive air; nitricoxide; 1000 vpm in nitrogen; argon; helium; halo-
(Greendiamond on label) nitrogen carbon; refrigerants
Safety — main principles
8.9 The main hazardsassociated with gas cylinders are:
a. careless storage, handling, dropping or impact can cause physicalor

personal injury. These hazards should be minimised:
(i) by the correct design, siting and construction of cylinder storage
areas,
(ii) by the provision of suitable storage and handling equipment; and
(iii) by the adoption of safe operating practices;
b. leakage of gas wherethe cylinder contents may be flammable,
oxidising, asphyxiant,anaesthetic,toxic or a combination of these
characteristics.In the eventof leakage, gas may collect in a confined
spaceand causeor contribute to a fire, explosionor health hazard.
34
Accommodation for medical gas cylinders
General
8.10 Accommodation for medical gas cylinders(main stores and ready-to-

use stores)should comply with the followingdesign guidelines:
a. ventilation— all cylinder stores should be well ventilated;

b. labelling — all cylinder stores should be clearly labelled as appropriate
with the typeof cylinders contained;
c. emergency action — details of emergencyaction proceduresand
location of keys togetherwith "no smoking" and otherwarningsigns
should be clearly posted on the frontof the cylinder store;
d. access — clear and secure access to all cylinder stores is required,

including adequate spacefor vehicularaccess and cylinder
loading/unloading;
e. fire protection — all cylinder stores should be free from naked flames
and all sourcesof ignition, and should be designated "no smoking"
areas.Appropriate fire extinguishing equipment should be readily
available;
f. cylinder stores for medical gases should only contain medical gas
cylinders;
g. industrial and pathology gases cylinders should be stored in a separate,

appropriately designated store.
Design and construction of cylinder stores

General
8.11 Cylinder stores should be coveredand adequatelyventilated. Stores

should not be located in close proximity to any installation which may present
a fire risk orother hazard.
8.12 The floor and hard standing should be level and constructed of
concrete or other non-combustible, non-porous material. A concrete finish is
preferred and is likely to have a longer life. The floor should be laid to a fall to
prevent the accumulation of water.
8.13 The store should have easy access for trolleys. The cylinder baysshould
be arranged to allow trolleys to be safely manoeuvredand cylinders to be
loaded and unloaded.
8.14 Separate, clearly identified baysshould be provided for full and empty
cylinders.
8.15 Separateareas for differentgases should be provided, but it is not

necessary to construct a physical barrier unlessit is convenient to do so.
Adequate means of securing largecylinders should be provided to prevent
falling. Small cylinders should be secured in racks in accordancewith BS 1319.
8.16 The doors should be large enough to facilitate cylinder

loading/unloading and should be on an external wall. The emergencyexit
should be provided with a panic-releaselock. Doorsshould open outwards.
35
8.17 If the travel distance from the access doors to any part of the stores
exceeds 1 5 m, additional emergencyexits should be provided. The advice of
the local fire safety officershould be sought.
Hazchem/warning signs
8.18 Safety warningsigns and notices should be used whereappropriate
and posted in prominent positions. They should be sited and designed in
accordancewith the requirements of SI 1980No 1471 'The Safety Signs
Regulations1980'; BS 5378: Part 1: 1980, Part 3: 1982 'Safety Signs and
Colours'; BS 5499: Part 1: 1984'Fire Safety Signs Notices and Graphic
Symbols' and the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
Location
8.19 Cylinder stores should be located at ground level, not underground, for
example in a basement.
8.20 Cylinder stores should be located as closeas possible to the delivery

point. Wherever possible thereshould be only one delivery supply point for
each site.
8.21 No parking should be permitted within the deliveryand storage area,

otherthan for loading and unloading cylinders.
8.22 The location of the cylinder store should be marked clearly on the site
plan for ease of identification in the event of an emergency.
Handling of cylinders
General
8.23 Cylinders can be heavy and bulkyand should therefore be handled with
care only by personnel who have been trained in cylinder handling and who
understand the potential hazards.
8.24 A suitable trolley should be used for transporting cylinderswhenever

they are moved.
8.25 Cylindersshould not be lifted by their guards or valves unless
specifically designed for that purpose.
8.26 Cylinders should not be dropped, knocked, used as "rollers" or be

permitted to strike each otherviolently.
8.27 Cylindersand valves should be kept free from oil, grease and other
debris. Cylinders should not be marked with chalk, crayon, paint or other
materials, nor by the application of adhesive tapes etc. A tie-on label indicating
the content state may be attached to the cylinder.
8.28 Smoking and naked lightsshould be prohibited in the vicinity of all

cylinders.
8.29 Cylinders should always be secured during transportation and in use.
36
8.30 Safety devices, including pressure relief devices, valves and connectors
should not be altered or by-passed.
8.31 Repairs, alterations or modifications should not be undertaken on any

part of an MGPS, including pressure reducing regulators, except by
appropriately trained personnel with adequate servicefacilities including
maintenance manualsand recommendedspares.
8.32 Markings used for identification of cylinder contents, pressuretesting

of cylinders,tare weights, etc, should not be defaced or removed. This also
applies specificallyto cylinder product labels.
8.33 Cylinders should not be painted or otherwise obscured in a manner

which would prevent identification oftheir contents, and care should be
taken to preserve their labels and surface finish.
8.34 Cylinders used for industrial purposesshould not be used for medicinal
applications and should not be stored in the same storeas medical gases
cylinders.Similarly, medical gases should not be used for non-medical
applications.
8.35 Cylinder valves should not be dismantled or tampered with.
8.36 Cylinder valves should always be closed after use and whencylinders
are empty. Keysfor this purpose should be readily available.Any gas trapped
within the regulator/equipment should be safely vented to atmosphere and
the equipment valves re-closed.
Protective clothing
8.37 Heavy protective gloves (preferablytextile or leather) and protective

safety footwear should be worn when loading or unloading cylinders,to
minimise the risk of injury. Gloves, protective bootsand overalls should be
clean and free from oil and grease. Additional precautions are required for
handling cryogenic gases, see paragraphs9.17 to 19.19.
Unloading equipment
8.38 The joistor tail-loader used with the deliveryvehicle should be as clean
as is practicable and mechanicalparts shielded to prevent contamination of
cylinders with oil and grease.
Trolleys,trucks and vehicles
8.39 The followingshould be noted:
a. cylinder trolleys should conform to BS 2718. Where differenttypes of

conveyanceare used to transport severalcylinders together, they
should be clean, the cylinder supporting surfaces should be free from
greaseand oil and they should be reserved for the transportation of gas
cylinders;
b. precautions should be taken to prevent cylinders fallingfrom trolleys,

trucks or vehicles.
8.40 Vehicles transporting gas cylindersand using publicroads should,

where applicable,be appropriately marked in accordancewith the proposed
37
requirements of the Health and Safety Executive's 'Packagingof dangerous

substancesfor conveyance by road'.
Transportation of cylinders with equipment attached
8.41 In some circumstancesit maybe necessary to transport cylinderswith

equipment attached. Unless it is essential for a patient to continue receiving a
supply of gas, the cylinder valveshould be closed and any gas contained in the
equipment or regulator should be safely vented to atmosphere before
transporting the cylinder.
Preparation of cylinders for use
8.42 The following preparationsshould be made before use:
a. check the cylinder label to ensure the correct gas has been supplied;
b. the tamper-evident seal should be removed and any plastic outlet cap
removed and left attached to the valve for re-fittingafter use;
c. cylinders should only be used in conjunction with equipment designed

for their use;
d. cylinder identification labels should not be removedor obscured. No
permanent marking or painting should be made to the cylinder shell,
except by the manufacturer/supplier;
e. lubricants, sealing or joiningcompounds should not be used when
connecting cylindersto pressure reducing regulators.The cylindervalve,
regulator and associated equipment should always be clean and free
from oil, grease and otherdebris;
f. cylinder and equipment connection interfacesand their washers or
"0" ring seals should be inspected to make sure that they are in good
condition. Damagedsealing washersand "0" rings should be
replaced.Not more than one sealingwasher should be used at each
interface;
g. portable nitrous oxide/oxygencylindersshould ideally be stored at

above 10°C prior to use; wherethe temperature falls below 0°C it is
possiblefor the constituent gases to separate. If cylinders are stored at
temperatures lower than 0°C for long periods priorto use, they should
either be inverted at leastthreetimes or stored at above 10°C for
24 hours priorto use to ensurethe correct gas specification. Under no
circumstancesshould cylinders be immersed in water priorto use;
h. in the caseof large (G-size) nitrous oxide/oxygenmixture cylinders,they

should be stored uprightwithin the manifold room at a minimum
temperature of 10°C for a period of 24 hours before connection to the
manifold.
Connectingcylinders to equipment or manifolds
8.43 The followingproceduresshould be implemented:
a. connect the cylinder to the equipment or manifold tail pipeand tighten

firmly with the recommended key or by hand as appropriate. Excessive
force should not be used;
b. ensure that no leaks are presentat the junction between the cylinder
valve and equipment and also between the valve spindle and gland
nut. This maygenerally be determined by sound. If in doubt, use a
38
proprietary leak detection fluid. If a proprietary fluid is used, it should

be wipedoff with a clean damp clothafter use. When tightening
connectionsto stop gas leaks, excessive forceshould not be used.
Sealingorjointing compounds should never be used;
A 1% solution of Teepolshouldbe c. the connection between the cylinder valve and equipment should be
used forleak testing on cylinder checked for leaks using an approved leak detector. When tightening
connections the connection to stop gas leaks, excessive forceshould not be used;
d. priorto opening the cylinder valve, ensure the equipment flow control
valves are closed;
e. using a recommended cylinder spindle key, or handwheel wherefitted,

the cylinder valveshould be opened slowly to its fullestextent by
turning the valve spindle anti-clockwise. The spindle is then turnedback
by approximately a quarterturn. A faultykey or excessive forceshould
not be used,as these may damage the valve spindle;
f. regulators or equipment should only be used with the gas for which
they are designed;
For two-stage regulators, the outlet g. priorto opening the cylinder valve, ensure that the equipment flow
pressurevalveshould be fully turned control valves are closed;
in an anti-clockwisedirection .
h. when the cylinder is not being used,the cylindervalve should be closed
and the gas trapped within the regulator/equipment should be safely
vented to atmosphere by opening the flow control valve and then
closing it again.
Cylinder preparation for return to store
8.44 After use:

a. the cylinder valveshould be closed, any gas contained in the equipment
and regulator should be safely vented to atmosphere and the
equipment/regulator flow control valve closed, Ifthe cylinder is to be
removedor replaced,the recommended key should be used to
disconnect the regulator or equipment;
b. emptycylindersor those no longer required for use should be returned

to store as soon as possibleand appropriately identified as "empty".
Protectiveoutlet caps, wheresupplied, should be replaced.
Equipment for use with medical gas cylinders
Gas supply cylinder fittings
8.45 The inlet fittings on regulators and equipment used for connection to
medical gas cylinders should be in accordancewith the BS 341 and BS 1319.
39
Administration equipment
8.46 The followingprocedure should be implemented:
a. lung ventilators, oxygen therapy apparatus and otherequipment for

use with cylinders should be so designed as to render the entire
assemblystable during storage, transportation and use. If castors are
used, theyshould conformto BS 2099;
b. mobile equipment should be suitably buffered to reduce damage to
the fabricof the healthcare buildings (see BS 4322);
c. wherea pressure relief valve is fitted to protect downstream systems.
it should be indelibly marked with its relief pressure value. Regulators
should be indelibly marked with the maximum outlet pressure range.
Pressure gauges should be in accordancewith BS 1780;
d. needle valves or similar devicesshould not be used in place of

pressure-reducingregulators, as excessive pressure may develop
downstream of such devicesand result in possible injury to personnel
and damage to equipment.
Precautionsagainst leakage of gas

8.47 A naked flameor lighted cigarette should not be used to detect leaks.
Only proprietary leak detection fluidsshould be used and should be wipedoff
with a clean dampcloth after use to avoid possible contamination of the
fittings.
8.48 If a leak is identified:

a. between the cylinder valve and equipment:
(i) carefully tighten the connecting nut. Closethe cylinder valve and
vent any gas trappedwithin the equipment and open the cylinder
valve slowly. If the leak persists, turn off the cylinder valve, vent
any gas safely to atmosphere and detach the cylinder from the
equipment;
(ii) wherethe connection incorporates a seal (either "0" ring or Bodok
seal), this should be replacedand the cylinder reconnected to the
equipment, followingthe procedure outlined in paragraph(a)(i).
If a leak still persists the action taken above should be repeated;
(iii) Where the leak appearsto be caused by the cylinder valve, notify
the supplier of the faultycylinder and retain for return under the
"faulty cylinder" procedure;
b. between the valve spindle and gland nut:
(i) tightenthe gland nut in a clockwise direction using a
recommended key and without using excessive force. This should
be performed only by personnel trained in this procedure.This
procedure is only relevant to pin index valves and any other
cylinderwith a gland nut leak should be returned to the supplier.
8.49 If the leak persists,close the cylinder valve, ventthe gas safely to
atmosphere, detach the cylinder from the equipment and return it under
complaint procedure, to the supplier.
40
8.50 Excessive forceshould not be used when connecting cylindersor

closing valves, as this may damage threads and valve seats. The need for
excessive forcemayindicate a faulty valve seat and it should be reported to
the supplier. The cylinder should be removed from use and identified as faulty
by tyinga label to the cylinder.
8.51 Sealingor joining compound should not be used to rectify leaks. Any
leakagewhich cannot be rectified should be notified to the manufacturer
and/orelectro-biomedicalequipment (EBME) department as appropriate in
accordancewith the operational policy.
8.52 Cylinderswith damaged or very stiff valves should be labelled

appropriatelyand returned to the supplier.
Equipmentshouldbe subjectto 8.53 Defective pressure-reducingregulators, gauges and equipment may be

planned preventative maintenance, hazardousin use. A system should be set out in the operational policy to
see Chapter 10, "Maintenance" ensure that defective items are withdrawn from use, and repaired or replaced
as necessary.
Defective equipment shouldbe
notifiedto the appropriate body in 8.54 No attempt should be made to repair, alter or modifyany cylinder or
accordancewith the defect its valve other than that advisedin paragraph 8.48 (b)(i).
reporting system.
Precautionsagainst fire, heat and chemicals

8.55 Generalfire precautions applicable to MGPS are given in the "Fire
precautions" section of Chapter 9 "General safety and fire precautions".
8.56 Oil and grease in the presenceof high-pressureoxygen and nitrous

oxide are liable to combustion and should not be used as a lubricant on any
gas cylinder or equipment. In particular, the cylinder valve, couplings,
regulators, tools, hands and clothing should be kept free from these
substances.
8.57 A hazardoussituation couldarise if cylinders are subjected to extremes

oftemperature. Cylindersshould be kept away from sourcesof heat,
including steam pipes and hot sunny positions.
8.58 When equipment is coupled to a cylinder, the cylinder valve should

initially be opened as slowly as possible, as rapid opening can causea sudden
adiabatic increase in downstream gas pressure. The consequent temperature
rise may result in ignition of combustible material in contact with the hot gas
downstream. Only regulators designed for oxygen use should be used for this
service as theyare constructed to prevent this occurrence.
8.59 Serious incidents have occurred as a result of ignitionoccurring within

the cylindervalve or regulator. This has been attributable to friction generated
by particulate matter, such as dust or dirt, within the systemwhen the
cylinder valve is opened.
8.60 Cylindersand their associatedequipmentshould be protected from

contact with oil, grease, bituminous products, acidsand othercorrosive
substances.
41
Cylinders involved in incidents

8.61 Compressed medical gas in cylinders may introduce fire, chemical, In Scotland, SHHD Circular 1982
electrical and mechanicalhazards. No attempt should be made to examine (GEN) 31 and 32 apply.
or use a cylinder and/or tamper with its valve afterit has been involved in an
incident, until the Department of Health and suppliershave been consulted.
The procedure outlined in HN(83)21 should be followed.
Storage of cylinders in manifold rooms

8.62 The number of cylinders in manifold rooms should be restrictedto the
minimum required for operational and reserve purposes. This will include
cylinders connected to the manifold(s)and a sufficient reserve to replenish one
complete bank. In the case of manifolds for nitrous oxide/oxygenmixtures,
sufficient cylinders to replacetwo complete banksshould be stored.
8.63 Only cylinders of the gases required for connection to the manifold
should be kept in the manifold room. The manifold room should not be used
for any otherpurpose, although an exception may be made for essential
storage of nitrous oxide/oxygenmixture cylinderson trolleys to permit
temperature equilibration before use with directly connected equipment.
Storage of cylinders in ready-to-use stores

8.64 In some areas it will be essentialto hold small numbersof spare
cylindersfor immediate use for connection to anaestheticmachinesand for
sudden unanticipated demands. Such areas would include operating
departments, A&E departments, coronary care units, central deliverysuites of
maternity departments, special care baby units, intensivetherapy units,
sterilizing and disinfecting units etc. Thesestores should only be used for full
cylinders and all emptycylinders should be returned immediatelyto the main
cylinder store.
8.65 The numbersof cylinders heldshould be kept to the minimum; a

24-hour supply should suffice for normal circumstances, although this may
have to be increased for weekends, bank holidaysetc and otheroperational
reasons.
8.66 These cylinders should be kept in a specially designated room. This

should comply as far as possiblewith the requirements for manifold rooms,
but in any case should be well ventilated and where practicablehave at least
one externalwall to facilitate natural ventilation.
8.67 This designatedroomshould be clearlylabelled with the types of

cylinder contained and "no smoking" warningsigns.
8.68 No combustible material should be kept in the ready-to-use store. The

general principles given in paragraphs8.83—8.85 and 6.61 should be followed
where appropriate.
8.69 Cylindersshould be stored in racks in accordancewith BS 1319.

Sufficient spaceshould be provided for manoeuvringcylinders onto and off
trolleys. Adequate means of securing large cylindersshould be provided to
prevent falling.
42
Cylinders placed in orreturned to 8.70 Small cylinders of oxygen/nitrous oxide mixturesshould be kept
the ready-to-usestoreshouldbe horizontal and placed awayfrom ventilation openings wherepracticable.
checked for leakage, to ensure
that the cylinder valve is turned
off. An adequate numberofkeys
Stock control and receipt of cylinders into stock
should be available.
8.71 The objective of stock control and accounting is to ensure that the
correct cylinders are receivedand used and that unnecessarily large stock
holdings are avoided. It is also importantto avoid excessive stock holdings of
empty cylinders for which rental chargescontinue to apply. This may be
achieved by using the gas supplier's proprietary stock management system
which utilisesthe bar code information on cylinders to assist in efficientstock
management control.
Ordering from suppliers

8.72 The written procedure detailing the method of ordering cylinders from
commercialsuppliersshould be available in the appropriate departments. All
orders should clearlyspecify that the gas is for medicalpurposes. It should
also specifythe gas required, the cylinder size and indicate that the cylinders
and valves should comply with BS 341, BS 1319 and BS 5045. Ordering and
stock-control recordsshould be maintained to suit local requirements.These
records should include the name of the gas, date of receipt, expiry date,
cylinder size, batchnumberof each cylinder and quantityof cylinders
received.Automaticreplenishment systems may be used in conjunction with
the gas supplier, provided that an agreed procedure is specified.
Returns to suppliers
8.73 The written procedure should detail the method of accounting for and
returning of cylindersto the suppliers. Empty cylindersshould not be retained
longer than necessary in the main store, but returned at the earliest
opportunity to the supplier to avoid unnecessary rental charges. This mayalso
be covered by the automatic replenishment systemdescribedabove.
Issue from stores
8.74 The followingproceduresshould be implemented:

a. the written procedure should detail the system by which cylinders are
requisitionedfor use;
b. a record of issues should be kept. The record should include the name
of gas, size of cylinder, date of issue, expiry date, numberof cylinders
issued and the department, ward or name of recipient. This may be
covered by the proprietary stock management system.
Return of cylinders to stores

8.75 The written procedure should also be used for the return of emptyor
unused cylindersto the main storeand for returnto the supplier.
43
Receipt of cylinders into stock

8.76 Cylinderswhich do not conformto the followingrequirements will not
be accepted:
a. each cylinder should have:
(i) a product identitylabel;

(ii) a batch label;
b. cylindersshould be clean and free from rust, scaleand the paint-work
should be in a condition enabling easy identification from the colour
code chart(BS 1319C);
c. thereshould be a tamper-evident seal over the valve outlet.
8.77 The followingproceduresfor the rotation of stockshould be

implemented:
a. a written procedure should be prepared giving details of a rotational
stock-control system;
b. the main store should be large enough to permit the use of a

rotational stock-control system. Racks for smallcylinders should be
designed to assist rotation of stock;
c. where a system incorporating an in-use bay and a latest-deliverybay is
used, the in-use bay should be emptied before a fresh delivery is
loaded into it. Appropriate movable signs should be available.
Labelling/marking of cylinders
8.78 Cylindersshould be colour-coded and marked in accordancewith
BS 1319 and the Classificationof Packaging and Labelling of Dangerous
Substances Regulations.SI 1244 1994 and 92/27 EC.
8.79 Each cylinder should have:
a. a batchlabelto include a unique batchnumber, filling branch code,

cylinder code and product, filling date and expiry date;
b. product identification labelwhich includes:
(i) the product licencenumber;
(ii) the name and chemical symbol of the gas or gas mixture contained
in the cylinder. Additionally, in the case of gas mixtures, the
proportion of constituent gases should be shown;
(iii) a hazard warning sign;
(iv) a substanceidentification number;
(v) specific product and cylinder handling precautions;
(vi) particular instructions to the user where necessary;
(vii) safety information;
c. a serial number;
d. test mark, year and quarter of test.
8.80 Cylinders,pressure-reducingregulators and pressuregauges should be

conspicuouslymarked 'use no oil or grease" or with the appropriate symbol.
44
8.81 Cylinder yokes, pressure-reducingregulators and pressure gauges

should be clearlyand indelibly marked with the designation of the gas or gas
mixturefor which they are intended. BS 1319 may be used as guidance.
8.82 Pressure gauges should be in accordancewith BS 1780 or with the

appropriate standard for the particulartype of medicalequipment or to
BS 4272: Part 3: 1989, as appropriate.
Restriction on use of storage accommodation

8.83 The main stocks of oxygen, nitrous oxide, medical compressed air and
other medicalgas cylinders should be stored in the designated cylinder store.
No othermaterials should be keptin the store.
8.84 Cylindersshould be stored in racks to BS 1319 and used in rotation as

received. As cylindersare emptied and taken out of use, heavyduty tie-on
labels clearly marked "empty" should be attached to empty cylinders. Empty
cylinders should be stored separatelyfrom the full cylinders.
8.85 Manifold rooms may be used for limited storage of cylinders only to
the extentindicated within this document.
Notices
8.86 Smoking, weldingand naked lights are prohibited within or near the
manifoldroom, plantroom and liquid oxygen compound area and the cylinder
store. This prohibition also applies to the vicinity of the outlet of the discharge
pipefrom medical gas safety valves. Safety signsshould be provided within
and outside these areas to indicate this requirement, for example "smoking.
weldingand naked lights prohibited — medicalgas storage area". In
addition, a notice clearly indicating the contents of these areas should be
displayed.
8.87 Safety signs should be provided in accordancewith the 'Safety Signs

Regulations 1980' and are availablefrom the gas supplier. Further guidance is
also given in HTM 65 supplement for fire safety signs.
8.88 Notices should be posted in wards and departments informing staffof

the location of those medicalgas control valves which should be turned off in
the event of a major fire in the ward or department.
Access to manifold rooms and liquid oxygen storage

areas
8.89 Access to the manifold room and liquid oxygen storage area should be
controlled. A duplicate key of each should be kept in a locked box with a
transparent front cover at the main fire entrance, gatehouse or equivalent
building so that in the event of a fire a member of the fire brigade may obtain
a key immediately he/she enters the hospital site. The transparent frontof the
box should be labelled:
45
BREAK COVER TO OBTAIN KEY

FOR EMERGENCY USE ONLY
Where this would not be desirablefor security reasons, a prominent notice

clearly stating the location of the key should be displayed.
Fire detection system
8.90 Smoke/heatdetectors should be installed in the plantrooms, medical

gases manifold rooms and in ready-to-usemedical gas cylinder stores in
hospitalswith an automatic fire detection system, in accordancewith
'Firecode'.
Classification of hazardousareas for the selection of

electrical equipment based on BS 5345: Part 1: 1976
8.91 By implication, an area that is not classified Zone 0, 1 or 2 is deemed to
be a non-hazardousor safe area with respectto the code of practice. The code
of practice is based on the concept of dealing with the risk of fire and
explosion by area classification.
8.92 This concept recognises the differing degreesof probability with which
concentrationsof explosive(flammable) gas or vapour may arise in
installations,in terms of both the frequency of the occurrence and the
probability, that is, duration of existence on each occasion.
8.93 The definitions appropriate are as follows:
a. Zone 0 — in which an explosive gas-air mixture is continuously present,

or presentfor long periods;
b. Zone 1 — in which an explosive gas-air mixture is likely to occurin
normal operation;
c. Zone 2 — in which an explosive gas-air mixture is not likely to occurin

normal operation and if occurring will only exist for a short
time.
Reference should be made to BS 5345 before specifying or installing electrical

equipment for cylinder storage areas.
46
9.0 General safety and fire precautions
General safety
General
9.1 The safety of MGPS is dependent on four basictenets:
a. identity;
b. adequacy;
c. continuity;
d. quality of supply.
9.2 Identity is assured bythe use of non-detachablegas-specific

connectionsthroughoutthe pipeline system, including terminal units,
connectors, etc. and by the adherenceto strict testing and commissioning
proceduresof the system. Industrial shraderoutletsdo not comply with
BS 5682and should not be used.
9.3 Adequacy of supply depends on an accurate assessment of demands

and the selection of plant with capacityappropriate to the clinical/medical
demandson the system.
9.4 Continuity of supply is achievedbythe specification of a system which.

with the exception of liquid oxygen and separatedsynthetic air systems, have
duplicate components and by the provision of an adequate emergency/reserve
supplyfor all systems, except vacuum, by the provision of alarm systems and
by connection to the emergency power supply system. Anaesthetic gas
scavengingsystems (AGSS) and high-pressuresurgicalair systems are not
consideredas life-support systems and therefore duplicate components and
an emergency/reserve supply system is not necessarily required. Adequate
provision should, however, be made for continuity in the eventofa failureof
the supply.
9.5 Quality of supply is achievedby the use of gasespurchasedto the

appropriate EuropeanPharmacopoeia (Ph Eur) requirements or produced by
plant performing to specified standards,by the maintenanceof cleanliness
throughoutthe installation of the system and by the implementation of
varioustesting and commissioningprocedures.
Modifications
9.6 Special precautions are required when existing installationsare to be

modified or extended, to ensure that any section of the pipeline system
remaining in use is not contaminated or the supply to patients compromised.
The section to be modified should be physicallyisolated from the section in
use. Closureof isolating valves is insufficient for this purpose. Where area
valveservice units (AVSUs) have been installed, the blanking spades should be
used. This isolation procedure is not required when work is to be carried out
on individual terminal units, providing that no brazing is required.
47
9.0 Generalsafety andfireprecautions
9.7 Modification of existing systems may be detrimental to the overall

performanceof the system. In the caseof older systems there may be
insufficient capacity to permit the systemto operate safely with the flows
typically encountered in use today.
9.8 Any work involving alteration, modification, extension or maintenance

work on an existing system should be subject to the permit-to-work procedure
— see the "Permit-to-work" section of
Chapter 6 "Operational procedures".
Safety statement for users of oxygen equipment

9.9 The characteristics of oxygen are:
a. in the liquidstate oxygen is paleblue, with a boiling point of —183°C
at atmosphericpressure;
b. in the gaseous state oxygen is colourless, odourless,tasteless,non-
toxic, non-irritantand non-flammable. It will, however, strongly
support combustion, and is highlydangerouswhen in contact with
oils, greases, tarrysubstancesand many plastics.
9.10 When oxygen therapy equipment is in use, fireand safety warning

signs/labels should be conspicuouslydisplayedat the site of administration to
alert the patient, healthcarepersonnel and visitorsthat oxygen is being used
and of the need to takeappropriate precautions.It is recommended that the
text is accompaniedby a warningsign.
9.11 When oxygen is being administered in paediatric departments, the text

should include the precaution: "Only toys approved by the hospitalfire
officermay be giventothechild."
9.12 Oxygencanopies, hyperbaricchambersand tents should be labelled,

advisingthat oxygen is in use and that safety precautions relating to its use
should be observed. Labels should be attached to the fabricof the canopy/tent
in a position easilyseen by the patient and also on the exterior in a position to
be seen easily by healthcarestaff and visitors.
9.13 Considerationsmay need to be given for signs in other languages.
9.14 All usersof oxygen and associatedequipment should know The guidance given in 'Firecode:
and understandthe properties of oxygen and should be trainedin Policyand principles' shouldbe
the use oftheequipment. This appliesto all staff. followed.
9.15 The health hazardsassociated with liquid oxygen are:
a. cold burns and frostbite. Localised pain usuallygivesa warning of

freezing, but sometimes no pain is felt or it is short-lived. Frozen tissues
are painless and appear waxy, with a pale yellowish colour. When the
frozen tissue thaws it can result in intense pain with associatedshock.
Loosen any clothing that may restrict blood circulation and seek
immediate hospital attention for all but the most superficial injuries. Do
not apply directheat to the affected parts, but if possibleplace the
affected part in lukewarm water. Sterile, dry dressings should be used
to protect damaged tissuesfrom infection or furtherinjury, but they
should not be allowedto restrict the blood circulation. Alcohol and
cigarettesshould not be given;
b. the effect of cold on lungs. Prolongedbreathing of extremely cold
atmospheresmay damage the lungtissue;
48
c. hypothermia. A risk of hypothermia ariseswhen liquefied atmospheric

gases are released. All persons at risk should be warmlyclad.
Hypothermia is possible in any environment below —10°C, but
susceptibilitydependson length of exposure, atmospherictemperature
and, not least, the individual. Older people are morelikely to be
affected;
d. the formation of mist. When liquefied atmosphericgases are released,
a white mist is formed by the condensationof atmospheric moisture
when liquefied gas is in contact with it. The mist formation may cause
injuries as a result of trippingbecause of poorvisibility. In the event of
mist formation,extreme caution should be exercised when evacuating
the area.
Materialcompatibility
9.16 Gaseous oxygen vigorously supports combustion of many materials
which do not normally burn in air, and is highly dangerouswhen in contact
with oils, greases, tarrysubstances and many plastics. Only materialsapproved
for oxygenservice may be used.
Protective clothing for handling cryogenic gases

9.17 Protectiveclothing is only intended to protectthe wearer (handling
cold equipment) from accidental contact with liquefied atmosphericgases or
parts in contact with it. Non-absorbent leather gloves should always be worn
when handling anything that is, or has recently been, in contact with liquefied
atmosphericgases. The gloves should be loose-fitting so that theycan be
removed easily. Sleeves should coverthe ends of gloves. Gauntlet glovesare
not recommended because liquid can drip into them.Woven materials are
best avoided, but if theyare used for protective clothing it is essentialto
ensure theydo not becomesaturated with cold liquid.
9.18 Goggles or a face mask should be used to protectthe eyes and face
wherespraying or splashingof liquid may occur. Overalls, or similar type
clothing, should be worn. These should preferably be made without open
pockets or turn-ups where liquid could collect. Trousersshould be worn
outside bootsfor the same reason. If clothing becomescontaminated with
liquefied atmospheric gases or vapour, the wearer should ventilate them for a
minimum of 5 minutes, by walking around in a well-ventilated area, avoiding
exposureto naked flames.
9.19 Safety note: for more detailed safety instructions on liquefied

atmospheric gases, the advice of the supplier should be sought.
Other medical gases

9.20 Guidance availablefrom the manufacturersshould be followed.
49
9.0 Generalsafety and fire precautions
Fire precautions
General
9.21 The general guidance on fire precautions given in 'Firecode' should be

followed. Spedfic guidance on fire precautions relating to cylinders is given in
Chapter 8 "Cylinder management".
9.22 Guidance is also availablefrom the gas supplier and any specific
recommendationsshould be followed.
9.23 Fire can occur whenthe followingthree conditions are present:
a. flammable materials;
b. oxidising atmosphere;
c. ignition.
9.24 Flammable materialsshould not be present in cylinder stores, manifold

rooms or liquidoxygen compounds. It may not, however, be possibleto avoid
the presenceof flammable materials in the vicinity of the patientwhen medical
gases are being used.
9.25 Flammablematerials which may be found near patients include some

nail varnish removers,oil-based lubricants,skin lotions, cosmetic tissues,
clothing, bed linen, rubber and plastic articles, alcohols, acetone, certain
disinfectantsand skin-preparationsolutions.
9.26 An oxygen-enrichedatmosphere may be present when medicaloxygen

or nitrous oxide/oxygenmixtures are used. Nitrous oxide also supports
combustion.
9.27 Staff should be aware of the contents of HTM 83 and HC(78)4, 'The In Scotland, NHSCircularNo
Organisationand Maintenance of Fire Precautionsin the National Health 1978(GEN)42 applies.
Service'.
9.28 Further guidance should be obtained from the fire prevention officer,
the fire safety officerand the local fire brigade.
9.29 Ignition sources are numerous and include:

a. open flames, burning tobacco, sparks (which may also be produced by
some children's toys); highfrequency, shortwave and laser equipment;
hair dryers; arcing; and excessive temperatures in electrical equipment.
The dischargeof a cardiac defibrillator may also serveas a source of
ignition;
b. electricalequipment not specifically designed for use in an oxygen-
enriched atmosphere;
c. some non-electrical equipment. For example, a static discharge, which

may be created by friction, may constitute an ignition source if easily
ignited substancessuch as alcohols, acetone, some nail varnish
removers,oils, greases or lotions etc are present.
9.30 A mixture of breathing gases will support combustion. In an oxygen or

nitrous oxide-enrichedatmosphere,materials not normally consideredto be
flammable may burn vigorously.Flammable materials ignite and burn more
vigorously.
50
9.31 Clothing may become saturated with oxygen or nitrous oxide and
becomean increasedfire risk. When returned to normal ambient air, clothing
takes about five minutes for oxygen enrichment to reduce to normal
conditions. Blanketsand similar articles should be turned over several times in
normal ambient air followingsuspectedoxygen enrichment.
9.32 Oil and grease, even in minute quantities, are liable to ignite in the
presence of high-pressureoxygen or nitrous oxide. No oil or greaseshould be
used in any part of the MGPS. In particular, oil-basedlubricants should not be
used and all fithngs, pipes etc should be supplied degreased, sealed and
labelled for MGPS. Details of these requirementsare given in 'Design
considerations'.
9.33 The sitingand general structural principlesfor the design of liquid

oxygen storage accommodation are stated in Chapter 6 of 'Design
considerations'and for plantrooms and gas manifold rooms in Chapter 14 of
'Design considerations'. Cylinder storage should be as recommended in
Chapter 8 "Cylinder management".
Ventilation
9.34 Waste anaestheticgas discharges are usuallycontrolled by scavenging
and/or ventilation to comply with the requirementsof COSHH. Where oxygen
is used for specific therapies, for example in oxygentents or in continuous
positiveairway pressure (CPAP) ventilation regimes, oxygen enrichment may
occur. It is essential,therefore, that adequate general ventilation should be
provided to avoid the hazard.
51
10.0 Maintenance
General
10.1 MGPS should be subjectedto planned preventative maintenance (PPM)

and should be under the responsibilityof the authorised person (MGPS),
irrespectiveof whether or not a full preventive maintenance scheme is being
implemented in the hospital as a whole.
10.2 All workshould be carried out in accordancewith HTM 2022 and/or

Cli as applicable andas modified from time to time.
10.3 All work on an MGPS, whether or not the supply is or is likely to be
interrupted, should only be carried out under the instructions of, and with the
priorpermissionof, the authorised person (MGPS).
10.4 Since the authorised person (MGPS) is responsiblefor the operation of

the MGPS, his/herdecisionshould be final in all cases.
10.5 The operational policy should clearly set out the responsibilitiesand the
proceduresto be followedfor all work on the MGPS.
10.6 No work should be carried out on an MGPS unlessa permit has been
issued. This includes all examinationswhere no interruption to the serviceis
anticipated.
Organisation
10.7 Inspectionand maintenanceshould be carried out using one of the
followingmethods:
a. on a contract basisby an approved specialistcompany registeredto
BS EN ISO 9000 (or BS 5750), with scope of registration defined to
include maintenanceof MGPS. Please see previous marginal note on
the review ofthe concept of the existing QAS scheme;
b. by properly trained hospital staff (essential for daily, weeklyand other
tasks);
c. by a combination of (a) and (b) with a clear division of responsibility.

For example, electric motors and water treatmentapparatus
maintainedby hospital authority, the remainder maintained by
contract.
10.8 The authorised person (MGPS) should be responsiblefor monitoringthe

maintenancework carried out by the contractor.
10.9 All work carried out should be subject to the permit-to-work system,
and accepted by the authorised person (MGPS) priorto the contractor leaving
site.
52
10.0 Maintenance
Preparation of a maintenancecontract
10.10 This section is provided as guidance to the preparation of a
maintenancecontract for MGPS.
10.11 This section is intended to form part of the normal contract

terms and conditions applicableto NHS trust contracts.
10.12 Recommendationsare given for the requirements of contractors,

procedures,method statements, the competency of the staff required to carry
out the work and the responsibilitiesof trusts to monitorthe work carried
out.
10.13 It is a recommendationthat all maintenancework on MGPS should

only be carried out by specialistcontractorswho are registeredto BS EN ISO
9000with scopeof registration defined to cover maintenance of MGPS and
who can demonstratecompliance with the guidance given in this section.
10.14 It is the responsibilityof the authorised person (MGPS) to satisfy

themselvesthat the maintenancecontractor is competent to carryout the
work on the MGPS; this is implicit in the management of maintenance
contracts for MGPS in order to ensure continuity of supply and patient safety.
Patient safety is paramount when carryingout any work on an MGPS and
should be given priority over cost, although it is recognisedthat contracts are
managed to be as cost effective as possible.
10.15 A full record log of the maintenancecarried out is to be kepton site

and updated followingany work; the contractor should be given a copyof
the maintenance log.
10.16 The contractor should satisfy the trust that the maintenancetasks
comply with the Pressure Systems and TransportableGas Containers
Regulations1989.
10.17 Considerationshould be given to the benefits that can be derived from

longer contract terms between the clientand the maintenancecontractor.
General work procedures

10.18 All contractor's staffshould reportinitially to the authorised person
(MGPS) on arrival and also priorto departure from the premises.Visits to the
location of supply plant and distribution equipment should not be made
without the priorpermissionof the authorised person (MGPS).
10.19 The contractor should have made prior arrangement before each visit
in orderto minimise any disruption as much as possible.
10.20 Whileon the premises,the contractor should comply, and should

ensure that his/her staffsimilarly comply, with the requirements of all relevant
statutory safety legislation, including for example, the Health and Safety at
Work etc Act 1974.
10.21 The contractor should at all times comply with the trust'ssafety policy,
a copyofwhich should be signed by the contractor.
10.22 The contractor should provide his/her staffwith appropriate

identification acceptableto the trust which should be displayedat all times.
53
10.0 MaIntenance
The trust may also issueits own identityor other pass which the contractor
should displayif so requested.
10.23 The trust will provide details of its fire policy and the contractor will be
required to comply with this policy. The contractor should instruct his staff in
the requirementsof the fire policy.
10.24 The contractor should remove from the premisesany of his staff if
requestedto do so by the authorised person (MGPS) or wherethe trust so
requestson the grounds of efficiency, competence or public interest.
10.25 Nowork should be carried out, including examination of terminal units,

unless a permit-to-work has been issued
by the authorised person (MGPS) in
accordancewith the permit-to-work procedure.
Competencyof contractor's staff

10.26 The contractor is responsiblefor ensuring that the staffworkingon any
project are appropriatelytrainedand qualified to carry out the work. The trust
should not be requiredto test the competency of contractor's staff.
10.27 The trust may. however, request documentary evidenceof competency

and training. Practical evidencemay be requestedsuch as a demonstration of
brazing competency.
10.28 As a minimum, the contractor's project manager who has overall

responsibilityforthe maintenanceservices should have received specific
trainingand have similar experienceetc to fully understand the duties required
of an authonsed person (MGPS) as defined in HTM 2022.
10.29 The project manager should attend a refreshercourse at least every

three years. as for an authorised person (MGPS).
10.30 The project manager should not only be familiar with the requirements
of HTM 2022, but should have knowledge and experiencein the
implementations of relevantcodes of practice, including for example, the
Pressure Systems and TransportableGas Containers Regulations 1989.
10.31 The project manager is responsiblefor ensuring that only suitable

trained and experiencedserviceengineers are employed who are familiar with
HTM 2022 and the specialisttechniques involved are employed on the
maintenancecontract.
10.32 The service engineersshould have received at leastthe sametrainingas

would be required fora competent person (MGPS) as defined in HTM 2022.
10.33 The contractor should maintain a training programme and the training
of each employeeshould be recorded in a traininglog.
10.34 The trust may requestcopies of the traininglog of any of the

contractor's staff.
10.35 The contractor should assign a skill level to each of his/herstaff, and
this should be used whenselecting the appropriate staff for a particular task.
10.36 An exampleofa traininglog form and a skills matrix form is given in

Table 2.
54
10.0 Maintenance
Table 2 Training log and skills matrix

Form 1: Training log
--
Name:
Position:
Qualification:
Experience:
Summaryoftrainingto date:
Training certificates:
Training course— title:

Date:
Type of training:
initial course:
refresher:
re-assessment:
Descriptionof training:
authorised person (MGPS):
competent person (MGPS):
specificequipment:
Instructor/training courseprovider:
Assessor:
Competencelevel
Current level of competence Level aftertraining
Trainee 0 Trainee0
Level 1 Level 1
Level 2 Level 2
Level 3 Level 3
Instructor's comments/assessments
Line manager's comments/feedback
Signed by
Line manager/position
Date
55
10.0 Maintenance
Form2: Skills matrix
Assessment date Issue no Reference
Engineer: Current status:

project manager
senior service engineer
serviceengineer
competent person (MGI'S)
trainee
Classification:
Trainee0: Only to carryout work under the direct supervisionof a competent

engineer
Level 1: Qualified to carry out routineservice, unsupervised,working to set

procedures
Level 2: Qualified to carryout unsupervisedservices to set proceduresand

act on own initiative
Level 3: Qualified to carry out unsupervisedmaintenance and majorrepairs

and modifications workingto set proceduresand on own initiative.
The contractor should identify the skill level associatedwith each task in the
method statement, and allocate staff with appropriate skill levels to carry out
the work.
10.37 Ideally, the contractor should only employ his own staff to carry out the
maintenanceservices.
10.38 Where the use of sub-contract staff is unavoidable,the contractor

should obtainprior permission from the trust to use such staff.
10.39 The contractor should ensurethat any sub-contract staffare at least as

competent as his own staffand have received appropriate trainingand
experience.
10.40 The contractor should not allowany staff to work unsupervised on a

site unless they have received the appropriate trainingas detailed in this
section and in accordancewith HTM 2022.
10.41 Where the contractor's staffare not familiar with the MGPS at the site,
the authorisedperson (MGPS) should initially familiarise the contractor's staff
with the site, priorto carrying out any PPM work.
Test equipment
10.42 The contractor should provide all appropriate test equipment. The test
equipment should be in accordancewith HTM 2022 'Design considerations'.
10.43 The test equipment should be calibrated in accordancewith the

manufacturer's recommendations,but in any case against NAMAS standards.
56
10.0 Maintenance
10.44 Calibration certificatesshould be availableif requested.
10.45 When carryingout tests on terminal units, it is not sufficient to use

only blank test probes. Such blank test probes should only be used for leak
tests; a calibratedflowmeterand pressure gauge, together with appropriate
calibratedjet, should be used to carryout flow and pressure droptests.
10.46 The contractor should identify the test equipment appropriate to each
task in the method statement — see paragraphs 10.59—10.62.
Services
10.47 The contractor should carry out the services specified in the contract
on the dates or at the intervalsspecified in the contract.
10.48 A scheduleof minimum tasksto be carried out, together with the

minimum recommendedfrequency, is given in paragraphs 10.117—10.126.
This may be modified by individual trustsas appropriate for their particular
requirements.
10.49 Exceptwhere specificallyprovided for in the contract, and excluding

emergencycall-outs, all visits should be scheduledto takeplace on week days,
between 08:30and 17:00 hours.
10.50 It should be the responsibilityof the trust to ensure that access to the
plant and systems are availableto the contractor.
Itmaynot be practical for access 10.51 The contractor should liaise with the authorised person (MGPS) to
to operating departmentsand arrange for such access at leastone week before the due date of the visit.
otherhighdependencyareas to be
available duringnormalworking 10.52 In additionto the tasks set out in this chapter, the contractor should
hours; in this case the Contractor replace wearing parts on a routine basis, but excludingthe regular inspections
shouldliaise with the authorised of the vacuum insulated evaporator (VIE) andequipment operated from the
person (MGPS) to ensure that the pipeline system in accordancewith paragraph 10.94 of this volume.
workis carried out with due
regard for the clinical 10.53 In addition to the regular maintenanceprogramme set out in
requirements. Where access to paragraphs 10.117-10.125, the contractor should provide service engineers to
such departments is routinely carry out additional tasks as requestedby the authorised person (MGPS).
unavailableduringnormalworking These tasksmaybe routine, non-urgent maintenancetasks, or may be
hours, this shouldbe specified in emergencycall-out tasks.
the contract.
10.54 For non-urgent tasks, the extent, cost and time, and approximate
duration of the work should be agreed between the contractor and the
authorised person (MGPS) and confirmed in writing.
10.55 For emergencycall-outs see paragraphs 10.71 to 10.78.
10.56 Prior to leaving site, on completion of the tasks, the contractor should
reportto the authorised person (MGPS) to sign off the permit-to-work and to
provide any other information regarding additional work required, remedial
work, faults found etc.
10.57 The authorised person (MGPS) should sign to the effect that the work
has been carried out satisfactorily priorto the contractor leaving site.
10.58 It is the authorised person (MGPS)'s responsibilityto satisfy himself/

herself that the work has been carried out in accordancewith the contract.
57
100 Maintenance
Method statement
10.59 A list of recommendedtasksto be carried out at specified frequencies
is given in paragraphs 10.117-10.125.
10.60 The tasksare listed as generic tasks. The contractor should preparea
method statement for each of the tasks identified.
10.61 The method statement will be applicable to the actual plant and
equipment which is installed on a particular site.
10.62 The method statement should include the followinginformation:

• sequenceof tasksto be performed;
• proceduresto be followed, for example permit-to-work, obtaining
permissionfrom ward staff, safety proceduresetc;
• the grade, competency and number of staff to carry out the tasks;
• the test equipment to be used;
• the approximatetimeto complete the tasks;
• the documentation/report to be completed.
Records
10.63 The followingrecordsare to be completed followingeach and every

visit to the premises, and afterany work is carried out:
10.64 A signed and dated report form which includesthe followingdetails:

• company;
• timeand date of arrival on site;
• trust ordernumber;
• location, number and typeof plant/equipment;
• details of work carried out, ie planned maintenance, breakdown,
emergencycall-out, etc — details of break down as reported, causeof
breakdown, action taken;
• detailsof spares used;
• details of any furtherwork required, urgency and implications;
• details of defects notedand remedial work required;
• timeof leaving site;
• name of contractor's staff and grades;
• signatures: — contractor's engineerson site, authorised person (MPGS)
for the trust on arrival andprior to departure, clinician/nursingofficerfor
department visited.
10.65 For each area visited, the work record should be signed by the
departmental manager, nursing officer or clinician as appropriate, with the
time and date of the visit. This is to provide a written record that the particular
department has been visited; it in no way implies any responsibilityby the
clinicalor nursing staffwith regard to the scope and effectivenessof the work
58
10.0 Maintenance
carried out. Variations in signature protocols should be agreed with the

authorised person (MGPS).
10.66 A maintenance log is to be maintained for each plant itemandis to be

updated followingeach planned maintenancevisit or any work carried out.
The format of the maintenance log is to be specified by the authorised person
(MGPS) and the log should be kept by the authorised person (MGPS). A copy
will be made availableto the contractor for his records if so requested.
10.67 Following the completion of the service, the contractor should affix a
label to each plant item providing the following information:
• contractor's name, address and telephone number;
• the date the work was carried out;
• name and signature of serviceengineer;
• date of next planned service.
10.68 In addition, a barcode may also be affixed which is coded with the
details of the service record.
10.69 It would not be practical to affix such a label to each terminal unit
followingplanned maintenance.Therefore, a label giving the above
information and the location of the terminal unitsshould be affixed adjacent
to the area valve service unit (AVSU) servingthe area.
10.70 A scheduleof the actual tests resultsfor each terminal unit should be
maintained and retained in the maintenance log.
Emergency call-out procedures

10.71 In addition to the planned maintenancetasks as specified in the
contract and as recommended in paragraphs10.117-10.125, the contractor
should provide an efficientcall-out servicein the eventof any breakdown or
other incident occurring between planned maintenance visits.
10.72 This serviceshould be available 24 hours per day, 365 daysper year,
including all bank holidays.
10.73 The exact procedure for initiating a call-out will vary with each trust.
Each trust should, however, prepare appropriate procedureswhich should be
set out in the operational policy and which should be agreed with the
contractor and included in the contract documentation.
10.74 Typically, the trust should identifythe person(s)responsiblefor

contacting the Contractor (ie the authorised person (MGPS), shift engineer,
dutyengineer etc), the procedure for generating and authorising an official
orderfor the work, and the proceduresfor obtaining access to the site at all
times.
10.75 The contractor should, normally within a maximum of one hourof

receiving an emergencycall, contact the designated person. He should
ascertain the nature and extent of the problem, and provide an estimate of
the arrival timeof a serviceengineer on site.
10.76 For emergencieswhich have or are likely to result in interruption to the

supply or affectpatient safety, the contractor should attend site within a
59
10.0 Maintenance
maximumtime from receipt of theinitial call as specified in the

maintenancecontract by the trust. The geographic location of the trust,
number of trusts authorised and competent persons(MGPS), and availabilityof
technical guidance are all considerationswhen defining the emergency
response time. For normal circumstances a responsetime of two hours is
recommended.
10.77 The contractor should be responsiblefor maintaining a reasonable

stock of spares to facilitate emergencycall-outs. The contractor should be
familiar with each site and should therefore be able to reasonable anticipate
the most likely spares which will commonly be required.
10.78 The contractor should submitwith his tender a general statement on

his capability to support the requirementsof the trust.This should include
details on the various resources availableto him, number of staffemployed,
levels of competence, emergencysupport provision, and should define the
level of technical adviseand support that the contractor can provide. The
contractor should also identifyothersimilar contracts being undertaken.
Responsibilitiesof the trust to monitor the service

10.79 In orderto ensure that the maintenance service is being carried out in
accordancewith the contract, the trust should monitor the work and the
performanceof the contractor.
10.80 The authorised person (MGPS) should have responsibilityfor the

satisfactoryimplementation of the maintenance service.
10.81 The authorised person (MGPS) should ensure that the contractor's staff
and performance are checked on a random basis. On a large site, it may be
desirableto carry out a maintenance audit at least everysix months.
10.82 The authorised person (MGPS) should ensure that the serviceengineer
has adequatelyreported any defects or remedialwork required priorto leaving
site.
10.83 The authorised person (MGPS) should arrange site meetings when
necessary with the Contractor's representatives to discuss progress. Meetings
will normally be arranged if the trust is not satisfied with the level or standard
of service, or if changes in contract details are required.
10.84 The contractor's project manager should be present at such meetings,

together with the serviceengineersas appropriate.
10.85 The contractor's agreed attendance at progressmeetings should form

part of the contract.
Preparation of a PPM schedule
General
10.86 This section gives recommendationsfor the minimum tasks at the

minimum recommendedfrequency in order to ensure that the appropriate
PPM proceduresare applied to MGPS to securecontinuity of patient safety. It
is intended to be applicable to all MGPS, whether new or existing installations,
60
10.0 Maintenance
irrespective of whether or not the systems comply with the recommendations

in HTM 2022.
10.87 All work should be carried out in accordancewith HTM 2022 and
Clias appropriate.
10.88 Paragraphs 10.117-10.125 give specific recommended checks on the
MGPS, including particular details of daily and weekly test recommendations.
These tasksare usuallycarried out by the trust, however the trust may wish
the contractor to carry out these tasksas an additional contract.
10.89 Paragraphs 10.117-10.125 provide a recommended schedule of

services for the MGPS based on quarterly and, whereappropriate, annual
tasks.
10.90 In conjunction with the manufacturer's recommendations,the

guidance given in these sectionsshould enable a PPM scheduleto be
prepared; or enable management to scrutinisea contractor's proposalswith
ensure compliancewith these recommendations.
Preparation
10.91 The suppliers should be required to provide complete "as-fitted"

drawings, circuit diagrams, valve charts and maintenance instructions,which
should be used as the foundationfor the PPM programme. For new plant the
PPM programme supplied by the manufacturersshould be used. The terms
used in the PPM programme and their definition are as follows:
Examine To make a careful and critical scrutiny of an itemwithout

dismantling, by using the senses of sight, hearing, smell and touch,
to verify that the plantor equipment is in working order.
Test To operate the plant or equipment and/oruse the appropriate testing

instruments to ensure that plant or equipment is functioning
correctly.
Check To make a thorough inspection for damage, wear or deterioration.

Also to ascertain that the plant or equipment is correctly adjusted to
conform to the required standard.
10.92 The actual frequency of maintenance routines should be established

from the manuals for the equipment and plant. Practical experiencewith
equipment of differentmanufacturers,and information from plant history
logs, mightwell result in the need to vary some frequenciesand tasks in
particular installations.
Specific maintenance checks
Overhauls
10.93 In additionto the examination, tests and checksset out in the PPM
programme, arrangements should be made for a general overhaul of all
MGPS in conjunction with the manufacturer's recommendedfrequency. This
is likely to involve a temporary changeovertothe emergencystand-by
manifold (ESM) cylinder gases during the overhaul of the compressors.
61
10.0 Maintenance
Exdusions
10.94 The PPM programme does not cover the regular inspectionsconsidered
essential for the safe operation of bulk liquid oxygen installations.
Records and plant history logs
10.95 The results of each inspection,and any action taken to correct faults
found during the inspection, should be recorded. Arrangements should be
made so that action can be instituted to correct apparatusgiving constant
troublecausedbyfaulty design or by unsatisfactoryconditions of any nature.
Provision should be made for maintenancetasks and their frequency to be
modified when necessary.
10.96 Counters which record the hours of operation of each compressorand

vacuum pumphave been suggestedin Chapter 7 of 'Design considerations'.
The readingsof these counters can be used in conjunction with the
recommendationsof the manufacturersfor the modification of the
programme.
Equipmentchecklists
10.97 The installationsinclude a great number of AVSU5, pressure-regulating

valves, filters, indicating lights and audible alarms. Equipment checklistsshould
be preparedfor each of these groups of items. AVSUs and pressure-regulating
valves should be referred to by number in the checklist,and this number
should correspondwith that on the valve itself. It is usuallyconvenient to
arrangethese checklistsin such a manner that a record can be made against
each valve showing whetherit has been "examined", "tested" or "checked"
in accordancewith the PPM programme.
Maintenanceof filters
10.98 It is not possible to specify in advancethe frequency with which the Plug-in type terminal filter
variousfilters on the MGPS should be cleaned or changed. Inspectionshould assemblies used in associationwith
be in accordancewith the manufacturer's recommendations and take breathing systems do not formpart
account of local conditions. of the MGPS. AGSS are prone to
collecting lint which blocks filters
and affects performance.
Maintenanceof blenders
10.99 Maintenance should be carried out in accordancewith the

manufacturer's instructions.
Maintenanceof compressed air dryers and pressureswing

adsorber(PSA) columns
10.100 It is not possible to specify the frequency with which air dryer
desiccantcharges or PSA columns should be replaced.The desiccantshould be
checked at intervals and by methods recommended by the supplier. The
charge should be replacedwith the appropriate material in accordance with
the recommendationsof the supplier. A record of the type, batch number of
desiccantand date of change should be kept.
10.101 The quality of gas from PSA and medical air compressorsshould be
tested quarterly, in accordancewith the proceduresin 'Design considerations'.
62
10.0 Maintenance
Maintenanceof medical gas manifolds
10.102 The engineer should examinethe effectivenessof the various

pressure regulatorseach day by observationof the supply pressure gauges
and, simultaneously,ensure that any indicating lightsshowthe actual
condition at the timeof this routineinspection. If any manifold is observedto
be in operation on its "reserve" bank, he/sheshould ensure that replacements
for the empty cylinders will be available in goodtime.
Maintenanceof equipment for use with gas cylinders
RelevantSHHD circular — 10.103 Equipmentfor use with medicalgas cylinders,including piped

1977(GEN)68 and 1979(GEN)40. medicalgas distribution systems, should be subject to routine inspection and
Not adopted in Scotland. maintenancein accordancewith the manufacturer's recommendationsand,
where appropriate, it should be subject to PPM (adviceis given in HEI 98).
Maintenance work must be carried out only by competent and qualified staff.
Maintenanceof bulk liquid oxygen (VIE) systems
10.104 VIE maintenance is the responsibilityof the gas supplier, but there
are customer checkswhich should be carried out daily and weekly. In
addition, it may be necessary to testthe warning and alarm system.
The highline pressurealarm requires 10.105 In this caseeach alarm condition is initiated by the operation of a
specialisttest equipment— contact pressure switch. The control panel is supplied with three-way ball valves on
the gas supplier, the oxygen supply lines to each pressure switch. Rotation of these valve
handlesthrough 1800 allows oxygen pressure to the pressure switches to be
reduced. This action operatesthe pressure switches and the hospital alarms.
10.106 Weekly customer checksshould be carried out by the hospital as

follows:
a. check mechanicaljointsfor obvious signs of leaks;
b. check for mechanicaldamage;
c. check that the pressure setting of the VIE inlet is set at 10.5 bar g;
d. check that the pressure setting of the distribution pipeline is set at

4.2 bar g;
e. wherecylinder back-up is used, check that the pressure of the cylinders
on the reserve manifold is above 68 bar g;
f. whereliquidback-up is used, check (a) and (b) above and that the
back-up vessel is set at 8.5 bar g;
g. ensure that there is no build up of rubbish/flammable materialwithin

the vessel compound.
10.107 The VIE reserve manifold needs to be checked weekly. This is

particularly important, sincethe emergencymanifold is veryrarely used and a
small leak can lead to the loss of a cylinder bank. In particular, the pressure of
the reserve manifold cylinders should be checked weekly, as described in the
above list.
10.108 In the event of an emergency,the authorised person (MGPS)

should be aware of how to shut down the VIE system and the consequences
of such action.
63
10.0 Maintenance
Medical vacuum systems: bacteria filters — standard

operational procedure for filter changing
General
10.109 Before carrying out any work on bacteria filters, the user is to advise
on any toxic or infectious materials which may have been used and on
appropriate precautions to be observed.
10.110 All staff, including contractors, should observesafety proceduresas

set out in the trust's safety policy.
Permit-to-work
10.111 A valid permit-to-work form for safety purposes(this is not the same
as the medicalgasespermit-to-work form) must be authorised by the trust's
staff(usually the authorised person (MGPS)) before a filter is changed.
10.112 Where appropriate, a contractor's permit-to-work must be issued and

appropriatelyannotated.
Medical vacuum — bacteria filter change

10.113 It is safe to change the filter provided the proceduresin this standard
operational procedure are observed.
Protectiveclothing
10.114 All staffshould wear the followingprotective clothing when

carrying out a filter change:
a. disposable mask incorporating a filter; Itisassumed that the occupational
exposurelimit forall toxic
b. disposableoveralls; If
substanceswill notbe exceeded.
c. disposablegloves made of strong latex; this is not the case, the safely
officershould be advisedand an
e. disposableovershoes;
appropriate air-fedrespirator
f. safety goggles. should be used.
10.115 All disposableprotective clothing, that is, mask, overalls, gloves and
overshoes, are to be placed in the outer bag for disposal.
Fitterdisposal
10.116 The followingproceduresshould be observed:
a. the used filter is to be placed directly into a heavy-duty polythene bag;

b. this bag is to be placed inside a second bag, which is also sealed and
labelled "hazardous waste — to be incinerated";
c. the staff carrying out the filter change are to notifythe waste disposal
department and/or the authorised person (MGPS), as appropriate, so
that the bags can be collected and disposed of.
64
10.0 Maintenance
Schedule of maintenance services
General
10.117 This generic scheduleof services is based on quarterly servicevisits.
10.118 The tasks listed under each itemare to be carried out during every
quarterly visit.
10.119 In addition to the quarterly tasks, additional tasksshould be carried

out annually, and these are listed separately.
10.120 For terminal units, the tasks listed should be carried out at a
frequency specified by the trust,taking into account the amount of daily use
the terminal unit undergoes,and also the age and design of the terminal
units. As a minimum the work should ideally be scheduledsuch that one
quarter of the terminal unitsare serviced during each servicevisit.
10.121 For each of the tasks listed here, whereadjustments or other

remedial actions are required this should be carried out at the time; where
such action is not possible, for examplewhereadditional parts are required,
this should be noted and reported to the authorised person (MGPS).
10.122 There are also statutory requirements with regard to pressure

vessels and inspections; these tasks are not included here.
10.123 It is not recommendedthat safety valves are lifted; everysafety

valve should have a test certificate in accordancewith HIM 2022. The safety
valve should be replacedevery five years under a planned replacement
procedure.
10.124 Statutory obligations under the Pressure Systems and Transportable

Gas Containers Regulationsrequire the periodic testing of pressure safety
devices. It is not appropriate to test a medical gas pipeline system by either
raising the line pressure regulator setting or manually unseatingthe relief
valve. Such action could resultin failureof anaestheticequipment, and in the
event of failure of the safety valveto re-seat, considerablegas loss and further
hazard. Medical gas pipeline line distribution systems should be provided with
a pressure relief devicedownstream of the line pressure regulator connected
by meansof a three-way cock so that the safety device can be exchangedfor
a "certificated" replacementin accordancewith the frequency required by the
Regulations.
10.125 The followingservices are covered in this schedule:
a. general safety requirements;

b. medical compressed air and surgical air plant;
c. medical gas manifolds;
d. emergency reserve manifold;
e. medicalvacuum plant;
f. pipeline distribution system;
g. warning and alarm systems;

h. anaestheticgas scavengingsystems (AGSS);
j. yearly tasks— in addition to quarterly tasks.
65
11.0 Risk assessment — control of exposure to
anaesthetic agents
General
11.1 Anaesthetic gases are consideredto be substances hazardousto health

for the purposesof the Control of Substances Hazardousto Health Regulations
1988 (COSHH), except wheretheyare administered to a patient in the course
of medicaltreatment.
11.2 The COSHH regulations set out very specific duties that apply to the
handling ofanaestheticgases, and employers have a legal obligation to ensure
that these duties are discharged. It is therefore the responsibilityof the general
manager or chiefexecutiveto implement the requirementsof the COSHH
regulationswith respectto anaestheticgases.
11.3 The anaestheticgases which are of primary concern are nitrous oxide
and halogenated agents such as halothane and isoflurane. These agents are
usually administered in low concentrations compared to nitrous oxide.
Therefore,for practical purposes, it is only necessary to considerthe effects of
nitrous oxide pollution.
11.4 The COSHH regulations require that, for everyexposureto substances

hazardousto health, the followingshould be carried out:
a. assessment of the risk;
b. methods of achievingcontrol of the risk;

c. means of monitoring that the methods of control are maintained in an
effective condition.
Risk assessment
11.5 The risk assessment will be based on the exposure limits that came into
effecton 1 January 1996, published by the Health and Safety Executive, for
nitrous oxide and the halogenated anaestheticagents.
11.6 Detailedguidance on compliance with COSHH is given in EL(96)33,

covering publication; 'Advice on the Implementation of the Health & Safety
Commission'sOccupational Exposure Standardsfor AnaestheticAgents,
published by the Department of Health 1996'. Further guidance is given in
'Anaestheticagents: Controlling exposure under COSHH', prepared by the
Health Services Advisory Committee, ISBN 0-7176-1043-8.
Employers — in this caseexecutive managers have a statutory

11.7 —
obligation to ensure thattheselevelsare complied with in accordancewith the

COSHH regulations.
11.8 The published exposure limits have been shown to be achievablein

areas where the maximum exposureto anaestheticgases is likelyto occur, that
is, operating theatres and anaestheticrooms.
11.9 Assessment of the risk will involve the following:
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11.0 Riskassessment —control ofexposureto anaesthetic agents
a. identifying areas whereexposureto anaestheticgasescan takeplace.

and listing them in rank order, taking into account the likely exposure
and duration — the worstareas are, therefore, the operating room and
the anaestheticroom;
b. examination of the methods of control currently installed— for example
if a scavengingsystem is installed, its effectivenesswill need to be
established.It will probably be necessary to carry out monitoring of
both the environment and exposed personnel in orderto establisha
base level.Where there is any doubt as to the effectivenessof an
installedscavengingsystem, sampling of the environment togetherwith
personalsamplesof the anaesthetistand otherstaff who may be
exposedto high concentrations,should be carried out. Where no
scavengingsystem is installed in high risk areas, sampling of the
environment should be carried out in orderto assessthe need.
Methods of control
11.10 Effective control of exposureto anaesthetic gases will involvea
combination of the followingmeasures:
a. the use ofan effective scavengingsystem to removethe pollution at

source;
b. good room ventilation to dilute pollution from leaks, patients' expired
air etc;
c. good housekeepingto minimise leakage, such as from poorly-fitted
face masks, flowmeters inadvertentlyleft on, poorly-maintained
anaestheticor scavengingequipment.
11.11 A scavengingsystemwhich complies with BS 6834:1987 should be

installed in all newoperating rooms and anaesthetic rooms. Where a
scavengingsystem is already installed which does not comply with
BS 6834:1987, its effectivenessshould be assessed initially by monitoring the
environment and by personal sampling. If the exposureexceeds a 1WA of
100 ppm for nitrous oxide, consideration should be given to installing a
system which complieswith BS 6834. It should be emphasised, however, that
the actual exposureis likely to be the resultof pollution from several sources,
such as leakage, and therefore the ventilation systemand the maintenanceof
equipment should also be included in the assessment.
Scavenging systems which conform 11.12 Anaestheticgasesare also administered in otherareas such as
to 85 6834:1987 are only maternity departmentsand dental clinics. In these areas there is currently no
appropriate for installation in effective scavengingsystem available,and therefore a combination of good
operating rooms and anaesthetic ventilation and good housekeepingwill be required to minimise the exposure
rooms andshouldnotbe installed to anaestheticgases. This also applies to recoveryareas,wherethe
in otherareas. concentrationsexpired by the patients are relatively low and no satisfactory
scavengingsystem is available.Guidanceon ventilation systems is given in
HTM 2025. An air change rate of 15 air changes/hris recommendedfor
recoveryareas.
Monitoring
11.13 Goodhousekeepingwill be required in orderto minimise leaks from
equipment, poorly-fitting facemasks,flowmeters left on unnecessarily, etc.
The co-operation of all staff will be required to maintain a consistent
67
11.0 Riskassessment —conbol ofexposuretoanaestheticagents
minimum exposure;this will require periodic monitoring and training for all
staff.
11.14 The scavengingsystem should be tested in accordancewith Chapter 15

of 'Designconsiderations'.
11.15 The co-operation of all staff— clinicians,nurses,theatre technicians,

estatesstaff— will be required in orderto achievecompliance with these
requirements.
11.16 It is therefore recommendedthat one person should be nominated by

the generalmanager/chiefexecutiveto have responsibilityfor implementing
these recommendationsand co-ordinating a monitoringand trainingpolicy.
11.17 A monitoring programme should include the following:

a. initial assessment of staff exposure;
b. routine measurementof staffexposure;
c. testing of scavengingsystems;
d. testing of ventilation systems.
11.18 An initialassessment of the actual staff exposurelevelsshould be

carried out either by monitoring the environment or by personal sampling of
staff. This sampling should include staff in all areas whereanaestheticgases
and agents are used,including areas where it is not possibleto install a
scavengingsystem,for exampledelivery rooms.
11.19 If the initial assessment shows higher exposure levels than wouldbe
expected,real-time monitoring of the environment may be required in orderto
establish the source ofthe pollution.
11.20 Personal sampling may be required routinely.

Methods ofpersona!sampling are
currently beinginvestigated.
68
12.0 Definitions
Definitions
Anaestheticgas scavengingsystem (AGSS): A complete systemwhich
conveys expired and/orexcess anaestheticgases from the breathing system to
the exterior ofthe building(s) or to a place where theycan be discharged
safely, for exampleto a non-recirculating exhaust ventilation system.
Area valve service unit (AVSU): A valveassemblywithin an enclosure

provided for maintenance or for connecting a temporary supply or, in
emergency,for shuttingoff the gas flow to a spedfic area or for the purging
and testing of gas supplies afterengineering work.
Authorised person (MGPS): A person who has sufficient technical

knowledge, training and experiencein orderto understand fullythe dangers
involved and who is appointed in writing by the executivemanager on the
recommendationof a chartered engineer with specialistknowledge of MGPS.
The certificate of appointment should state the class of work which the
person is authorised to initiate and the extent of his/her authority to issueand
cancelpermits-to-work.
The authorised person (MGPS) should have read, have understood and be
able to apply the guidance in HTM 2022,especially in relation to validation
and verification, and should also be completelyfamiliar with the medical gases
pipe routes, their meansof isolation and the central plant. He/sheshould
ensurethat the work describedin any permit-to-work is carried out to the
necessary standards.
Batch number: A distinctive combination of numbersand/orletters which

specifically identifies a batch or lot and permits its history to be traced.
Client's representative:The person, or that person'srepresentative,as

defined under the designated Standard Form of Building Contract issued by
the JointContracts Tribunal 1980 (JCT 80).
Competent person (MGPS): A person having sufficient technical knowledge,

trainingand experienceto carry out his/her duties in a competent manner and
understandfullythe dangers involved, and whose name is on the register of
competent persons.The registershould be maintained by eithera specialist
contractor or by the authorised person (MGPS) as appropriate. See also the
definition of a contractor and paragraphs 5.33—5.35.
He/she should be familiarwith and able to read the record drawings and
should have received specific trainingon MGPS.
He/sheshould be ableto identifyall types of medicalgases terminal unitsand

should be familiar with all testing and commissioningproceduresreferred to
in HTM 2022. The person maintaining the register should assessa person's
competence,taking account of his/her training and experience.
Competentperson (Pressure Systems) as defined by the Pressure Systems

and TransportableGas Containers Regulations 1989. In the regulationsthree
69
12.0 Definitions
categories of system are defined and for each category differentattributes are
required for competent persons:
a. minor systems: pressureless than 20 bar (2.0 MPa.) and the pressure
o
volume product for the largest vessel should be less than 2 x 1 bar-
litres (20 MPa. m3);
b. intermediate systems: these include systems that do not fall into either
of the othertwo categories;
c. major systems: steam-generatingsystems exceeding 10 MW, pressure
storagesystems in excess of 106 bar-litres (1 OOMPa. m3);
Most MGPS will fall into the minorsystems category.
Afull list of the attributes required is given in the Regulations, but in summary,
minor systems require at least incorporated engineer status while intermediate
and major systems require chartered engineer status.
Contract The agreementconcluded between the trust and the contractor,

including all specifications, contractor's samples, plans, drawings and other
documentation which are incorporated or referred to therein.
Contractsupervisingofficer: The person authorised by the hospital authority

to witness tests andchecks under the terms of contract. He/she should have
specialistknowledge, trainingand experienceof MGPS and HTM 2022.
Contractor The contractor commissionedtypically as a sub-contractor for the

installation of the MGPS under the Standard Form of Building Contract issued
by the Joint Contracts Tribunal 1980 (JCT 80). All contractors workingon
MGPS should be registeredto BS EN ISO 9000 with scopeof registration
defined as appropriate.
Decanting:The act of transferring oxygen under pressure, normally from a

large cylinder to a smaller, usually transportable one. This procedure should
only be carried out under controlled and documented conditions with the
sanction ofthe quality controller (QC).
Designatedmedicaland nursing officer The medical or nursing officer

designatedby the chief executive to act as a focal point for communications
related to MGPS in a specified department or departments. There would ideally
be a designated medical officerand a designated nursing officer in each
department. The designatedofficer should give permission for any interruption
to the MGPS.
Designatedperson: A suitably trained person who has been given

responsibilityfor a particular operation involving medical gas cylinders,for
example responsibilityfor changing cylinders on the MGPS manifold.
Equipment A device, such as a pressure regulator and flow meter, which is

connected to a single cylinder for the administration of medical gas to an
individual patient or gas apparatus.
Flammable: Capableof burning with a flame.
HTM 22: Hospital Technical Memorandum 22 — 'Piped medical gases, medical

compressed air and medical vacuum installations' (first published by HMSOfor
the Department of Health and Social Securityas Hospital Technical
70
12.0 Definitions
Memorandum 22 in May 1972, and as amended by HN(76)175),and last

reprinted in 1978 with minor corrections.
Main cylinder storage area: The main area where all cylinders on a site are
stored, excluding only thosecylinders in use in manifold rooms or in ready-to-
use stores.
Manifold room: A purpose-built room designed to accommodatea cylinder

manifold installation and reserve cylindersas appropriate.
Medical gas pipeline systems(MGPS):The fixed medical gases pipeline and

the associated supply plant or pumping equipment and warningand alarm
systems. This definition includes medical compressed air and medical vacuum
installationsand anaestheticgas scavengingsystems.
Permit-to-work: A form of declarationor certificate in six parts, for signature

as appropriate. It states the degreeof hazard involved, definesall services to
be worked on and the points whereisolation of the affected sections are
carried out. It also givesan indication of the work to be carried out. It is not a
permit for the use of the installation for clinical purposesuntil all parts have
been completed. A pro-forma is given in the permit-to-work section of
Chapter 6 "Operational procedures".
Pipeline carcass: The pipeline installation with terminal unit base blocks and
area valve service units (excludingpressure switches, flexible assemblies, etc).
Pipeline manifold: A pipe to which cylindertail-pipes are connected,which

in turn is connected to the control equipment by means of which medical gas
is delivered to the MGPS.
Premises: The premises should be the hospital site, healthcarebuilding or

other establishmentwherethe MGI'S is installed and the services are to be
provided, as defined in the contract.
Pressure safetyvalve: A valve to limit pressure within the pipeline system.
Pressure swingadsorber (PSA): Medical oxygen concentrator. System

comprising compressor(s), nitrogen adsorber unit(s) and reservoir by meansof
which oxygen-enriched,clean, dry, oil-free air is generated from atmospheric
air.
Procedure:A written method which has been drawn up by a person familiar

with the systemand the requirementsof this HTM, and checked by the QC or
authorised person (MGI'S), as appropriate. It should be signed by both
persons and be dated, and include a review date.
Protectivecover: A tamper-evident means of protection of the cylinder valve

or valve gas-outlet which may be achieved by a viscose seal, plastic cap or
metal cover.
Qualitycontroller (QC):A person appointed in writing by the executive

manager on the recommendation of the chiefpharmacist. The QC should
normally be a pharmacistor othersuitably qualified person and should have
specialistknowledge, trainingand experienceof MGI'S and HTM 2022.The
QC is responsiblefor the quality of the medicalgases; his/herduties include
carrying out the quality tests in accordancewith the proceduresspecified in
"Validation and verification".
71
12.0 Definitions
Ready-to-use store: A local subsidiaryto the main storefor a limited number

of medical gas cylinders, usuallycylindersfor immediate use and oneday's
supplyfor reserve purposes.
Services: The services meansthe services and the goods which the contractor
is required to supply in accordancewith the contract.
Specialist fire safety advisers:This postis fully describedin Firecode: Policy

and principles'.
Tail-pipe:A flexible connecting pipewhich connectsa medical gas cylinder to

a medicalgas pipeline manifold via a gas-specificconnector.
Training (gas cylinders): Formal instruction in the safe handling and storage
of gas cylinders and associated equipment to ensure that all staff are aware of
the dangers involvedand will act accordingly.
Trust Trust meansthe NHStrust, Special Health Authority or other Health

Authority as appropriate.
Vacuum insulated evaporator. Cryogenic liquidsystem, sourceof supply

containing liquefied gas stored under cryogenic conditions.
72
Appendix I — General safety requirements
The followingshould be checked and any deficienciesor remedial action

required should be notified to the authorised person (MGPS):
a. safety notices — appropriate notices clearlydisplayed in all plantrooms
and cylinder stores;
b. "no smoking" notices— clearly displayed;

c. dischargepointslvents/vacuum/AGS— warning notices clearly displayed;
d. motor guards in position and in good repair;
e. notices warningof automatic start-up in position and legible;
f. plantrooms free from combustible material and with adequate access

for maintenance;
g. all cylinders properly stored/securedand all batch labels correct and in

date.
73
Appendix I — Generalsafety requirements
Medical compressed air and surgical air plant

Note: this applies to surgical air systems except that these may be simplex
systems.
Compressor units
Examine: generalcondition of unit

silencers
—
alignment of compressorand motor adjust as necessary
safety valves (do not lift) and dischargevents
drainage traps
level of lubricants — replenish/completelyreplace as necessary
condition and running of cooling fans — replace as necessary.
location of air intakes — report as necessary
Check: air intakes andair filters— clean and replace as necessary

security ofall holding-down bolts
condition of anti-vibration mounts — replace as necessary
compressor(s) and motors are secure
belts, pulleysand drive couplings — adjust/replaceas necessary
flexible connectionsthermostatic control — replace as necessary
oil filters
Test: operation of plant

operation of pressure gauges— replace as necessary
for any unusual noise
record plant conditions including standby cut-in settings etc
operation of coolers
Receiver(s)
Examine: general condition

safety valves for leakage
securityof holding-down bolts
condition of isolating valves
condition of flexible connections
Check: pressure gauges

pressure switches— adjust as necessary
operation of non-return valve
operation of drainagetrap
safetyvalve dischargevent
operation of pressure gauges replace as necessary

—
Test:
Separatorsand filters
Examine: condition of separator

condition of drainage trap
Check: isolating valves

filters
74
-
Appendix I Generalsafety requirements
Dryers

heating elements or air-dried columns as appropriate
Check: operation of heating elements/thermostatsas applicable

automatic releaseof air priorto drying process
automatic re-pressurisation followingdrying process
correct sequencingbetween columns on automaticimanual
desiccant
Test: operation of pressure sensing devices

operation of all automatic valves
operation of dew-pointsensor
Compressor control panel
Examine: condition of control cabinet

condition of electrical conduits
earthing/continuity arrangements
Check: securityof electrical connections

operation of pressure sensors
terminal connections
condition of cables
operation of high-and low-pressure switches
operation of starter and overloads
operation of lamps and warning devices
Test: operation of dutyselector switch

operation of auto/manual selector
operation of main isolation switches
Pressure regulators
Examine: condition of all pressure regulators
Check: safety valves

regulator mountings
locking deviceswhere fitted
operation of gauges
Test: operation of regulators— adjust as necessary

correct settings — adjust as necessary
Warning and alarmssystem
Test: operation of all alarms— adjust as necessary
Compressor system
Test: operation of plant by simulation of running and fault conditions

system pressure
quality of medical air to HTM 2022quality specification
Record details of all plant data, including hours run, start-up/run current, cut-
in and cut-out pressure switch settings etc.
75
Appendix I —Generalsafety requirements
Medicalgas manifolds
Cylinder racks
Check: damage, securityand general condition
Headers
Check: for damage

non-return valves for leakage and operation
Tail-pipes

threads on tail-pipeheader connection
Check: for leakage— replace tail-pipes and non-return valve seals as

necessary
Control panel
Note: the detailed tasks will depend on the typeof panel installed. The
manufacturer's recommendationsshould be followed in all cases.
The tasks listed here are generic, and the actual tasks should be
detailed in the method statement.

leakage
Check: electricalconnections
fuses
operation of isolating valves
safety valvefor leakage
safety valve dischargeventfor blockage
pressure regulator settings — adjust as necessary
lampsand warningdevices
Test: pressure gauges

operation of automatic changeoverdevice
operation of manual changeoverdevice
operation of pressure regulating devices
pressure regulators for creep
Emergencyreserve manifold
Examine: condition of cylinders
leakageat connections
condition of tail-pipes — replaceas necessary
76
AppendixI — General safety requirements
Check: securityof fixings

operation of isolating valves
operation of pressure regulator
safety valvefor leakage
safety valvedischargevent
cylinder valves openor closeddepending on automatic/manual
system
at least onecylinder valve is open
emergencystandby manifold (ESM) isolating valve is closed
Test: pressure gauges

pressure regulator within specified limits
pressure regulator for creep
Medical vacuum plant

Vacuum pumps

alignment of pumpand motor
lubricant levels —top up as required/totally replace
Check: security of holding-down bolts

condition of anti-vibration mounts — replaceas necessary
motor and pump are secure
belts, pulleys and drive couplings — adjust/replaceas necessary
Test: operation of pressure sensing devices

for unusual/excessive noise
Receiver(s)

security of holding-down bolts
condition of delivery isolationvalve
Check: pressuregauges
pressure switches
Test: operation of non-return valves
Drainagetraps and filters
Examine: condition of all filters— replace as necessary

provision of traps— adviseaccordingly
Check: operation of isolation valves

pressure differential across filters(where possible)
sight glass
77
AppendixI — General safety requirements
Control panel
Examine: condition of control panel

condition of electrical conduits
Check: electrical connections

operation of pressure devices
terminal connections
cable condition
operation of startersand overloads
lamps and warning devices
Test: operation of duty selectorswitch

operation of auto/manual operating switch
operation of main isolation switches
Exhausts
Examine: location — potential hazards

flexible connections
silencers
securityof bracketing
dischargepoint for blockage
drainagetrapsand flasks empty as required and rectify fault or

Check: —
report remedial action necessary
Vacuumplantsystem
Test: operation of plant

record plant settings eg standby pump cut-in pressure etc
operation of all warningand alarm systems
Pipeline distribution system

Pipewoik
Examine: labelling
bracketing
damage
proximity to other services
no modifications'other hazards since last examination
Valves— isolating
Check: valves are operational and are correctly orientated

valves are locked (where appropriate)
valves are labelled correctly
78
Appendix I—Generalsafety requirements
AVSUs
Examine: location
cleanliness — clean as required
Check: correct labelling — rectify as necessary

orientation of on/off valves
valves for ease of operation
Pressure reducing sets
Examine: condition of all pressure regulators
Check: safety valves

security of regulator mounting
locking devices— where fitted
Test: regulatorsfor creep

regulatorsfor correct settings
Terminal units
Check: no leakage occurs when blank probe is inserted or removed —

repair
as necessary
identification markings are secureand legible
security of mountings
Test: operation using test probes

gas specificityusing gas specific probes
pressure with no flow
pressure under design flow conditions using calibratedtest
equipment
flow rate
Pendants/booms
Note: the actual tasks required to test the performance of the pendants will
depend on the design of the system.In each case, the full range of
performance characteristics should be covered. For example, some
pneumaticallycontrolled pendants have rotational as well as vertical
movement, and this should be tested; the braking system (where applicable)
and the fail-safe devices(such as remote controllers) should also be covered.
The advice of the manufacturershould be followed.
Examine: security of fixings/mountings

freedom of movement as applicable
labelling and colourcoding of hose assemblies
Check: leakage
hose assemblies — securityof crimping/ferrules etc
condition of hoses — replace as necessary
Test: terminal unitsas above
79
Appendix I —Generalsafety requirements
Warning and alarm systems

Centralalarm system— all panels

location
mains electrical supply
Check: operation and automatic reset of mutingdevices

electrical connections
markings and labelling legibility of fault conditions
—
fuses
Test: lamps/LEDs for function

operation of flasher unitwherefitted
condition of batteries
condition of low voltage transformer
operation of circuit fault alarm
functionof audible alarm
correct indication under fault conditions
Area alarms

location and areas served
mainselectrical supply
Check: as for central alarms
Test: as for central alarms

operation of line pressure sensors
Note: it may be necessary to simulate these fault conditions.
Anaesthetic gas scavenging systems(AGSS)
Pumpunits
Examine: generalcondition
location of discharge
securityof fixing devices
anti-vibration mountings
flexible connections
Check: lubricant levels— replenish/replaceas necessary

electrical connections
condensatedrain—emptyas necessary
balance valves are not obstructed and are operating correctly —
clean filter as necessary
correct rotation of pumps
exhaust is free from obstruction
starter and overload
lamps and warningdevices
80
Appendix I—Generalsafety requirements
Test: operation of plant from remote controllers

appropriate alarm condition is indicated— simulated flow failure
pressure sensing devices
operation of changeoverfrom dutyto stand-by on duplex systems
AGS terminal units

location
Check: labelling
function — clean and adjust bobbin assemblyor orifice as
appropriate
Test: correct flow and pressure using calibrated test equipment
AGS receiving system (where included in contract)

location
flexible connecting hoses — replace as necessary
Check: filter for fluffetc and clean as necessary

air inlets are not obstructed
correctly labelled
Test: operation of flow indicator
Yearly tasks — in addition to quarterly tasks
Distribution system
Pipework
Examine: examine the complete pipework distribution system for signsof

damage
Check: accuracy of as-fitted drawings

identification markings, labelling etc
Pressure reducing sets
Check: valves for pressure creep

—
safetyvalves see paragraph 10.124, this volume
Pendants/hose assemblies
Check: condition of hoses and hose connections

see also note under pendants — it may be necessary to dismantle
the pendantassemblyin order to fully check the hoses.
81
-
Appendix I General safety requirements
Manifoldsystems indudingemergencysupply systems
—
Tail-pipes replace
Control panel safetyvalves —see paragraph 10.124, this volume
Medical compressed air plant — including surgical air

plant
Compressor units
Examine: inter-cooler and/or after-cooler for cleanliness of fans— clean and/or

replace as necessary
Check: blow out and check motor windings and bearings
Dryers
Check: condition of desiccant— replace as required
Pressure regulators
Check: regulatorsfor pressure creep

safety valves — see paragraph 10.124, this volume
Electrical system
Test: carry out resistance testson electrical circuits
82
Appendix II — Procedure for breaking into an existing
system
4.1 Figure 3a indicates an assembly comprising a valve (in a box) and pipe
drops, with pipe joints brazed with copper fittings. It is fully tested and
purged with medical air in preparation for final connection into an existing
system. Final purging with the workinggas may be accomplishedafter
connection to the existing installation.
4.2 If furtherwork is to be undertaken downstream of the valve, the

physical break point incorporated in the AVSU should be used downstream of
this valve (see Figure 3b). The pipe tail upstream of the physical break point
should be capped with a plastic cap. This section downstream of the break
point will require a pressure-tightcapping, so that full pressure testing and
purging with medicalair of this section may be undertaken. A blank plug is
availablefor this purpose.
4.3 It is not always necessary to provide a valve for the isolation of a

section which has to be worked on. For example, where a simple extension is
required, as in Figure 3c, a physical break point is established,the upstream
side of the break is capped with a blank plug, and the remainder of the
system can be takenback into use.
4.4 Unless it is possible to use the physical break poiints in the AVSUs,
there will always be one joint which has to be brazed without an inert gas
shield. This should be purged fullywith the working gas before the system is
tested for quality and identity.
83
Appendix II—Procedure for breaking into anexisting system
Existing system
AVSU
assembly
L
1/
I __ -
II' —, '
S..
II'
,——
—
Figure3a
Physical
breakpoint
Pressure tight
capping here
Physical
breakpoint
Existing system Areavalve

resed use serviceunit
incorporating
aphysical
breakpoint
Figure 3b
—
___l
Physical breakpointhere
(pressure tightcapping
upstream of gap)
Proposed
extension
Existing
isolation
valve
Figure3c
84
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Other publications in this series
beloware details of all Health Technical

(Given 2070 Estates emergencyand contingency planning
Memoranda availablefrom HMSO. HTMsmarked (*) are 2075 Clinical waste disposal — alternative technologies
currently being revised, those marked (t) are out of print.
Some HTMs in preparation at the timeof publication of Component Data Base (HTMs 54 to 80)
this HTM are also listed.) 54.1 Usermanual, 1993.
55 Windows, 1989.
1 Anti static precautions: rubber, plasticsand fabricst 56 Partitions, 1989.
2 Anti static precautions:flooringin anaesthetising 57 Internal glazing. 1995.
areas (and data processing rooms), 1977. 58 Internal doorsets, 1989.
3—4 —
59 Ironmongeryt
2005 Building management systems, 1996. 60 Ceilings, 1989.
6 Protection of condensatesystems: filming aminest 61 Flooring, 1995.
2007 Electrical services: supply and distribution, 1993. 62 Demountable storagesystems, 1989.
8 —
63 Fitted storagesystems, 1989.
2009 Pneumaticair tube transport systems, 1995. 64 Sanitary assemblies, 1995.
2010 Sterilizers, 1994, 1995, 1997 65 Health signs*
2011 Emergencyelectrical services, 1993. 66 Cubiclecurtain track, 1989.
12to13 —
67 Laboratoryfitting-outsystem, 1993.
2014 Abatement of electrical interference, 1993. 68 Ducts and panel assemblies, 1993.
201 5 Bedhead services, 1994. 1995. 69 Protection, 1993.
16 — 70 Fixings, 1993.
17 Health building engineering installations: 71 Materials management modular system*
commissioningand associatedactivities, 1978. 72 to 80—
18 Facsimile telegraphy: possible applications in DGHst
19 Facsimile telegraphy: the transmissionof pathology
Firecode
reports within a hospital — a casestudyt
2020 Electrical safety code for low voltage systems, 1993.
81 Firecode: fire precautions in new hospitals, 1996.
2021 Electrical safety code for high voltage systems, 1993.
82 Firecode: alarm and detection systems, 1989.
1994.
83 Fire safety in healthcarepremises:generalfire
2023Access and accommodation for engineering precautions,1994.

85 Firecode: fire precautions in existing hospitals, 1994.
services, 1995.
86 Firecode: fire risk assessment in hospitals, 1994.
2024Lifts, 1995.
2025Ventilation in healthcarepremises, 1994. 87 Firecode: textiles and furniture, 1993.
26 Commissioningof oil, gas and dualfired boilers: 88 Fire safety in health care premises: guideto fire
with notes on design, operation and maintenancet precautions in NHShousing in the community for
2027 Hot and cold water supply, storage and mains mentally handicapped/illpeople, 1986.
services, 1995.
Health Technical Memoranda published by HMSOcan be
28 to 29—
2030 Washer-disinfectors,1995. purchasedfrom HMSO bookshops in London (post orders
32 to 34— to P0 Box 276, SW8 5DT), Edinburgh, Belfast, Cardiff,
36 to 39— Manchester, Birminghamand Bristol, or throughgood
2040 The control of legionellaein healthcarepremises— booksellers.HMSO provide a copy servicefor publications
which are out of print; and a standing orderservice.
a code of practice, 1993.
41—44 —
2045Acoustics, 1996. EnquiriesaboutHealth Technical Memoranda (but not
46—49 — orders) should be addressed to: NHS Estates, Department
2050 Risk management in the NHSestate, 1994. of Health, PublicationsUnit, 1 Trevelyan Square, Boar
51—54— Lane, Leeds LS1 6AE.
2055 Telecommunications(telephone exchanges), 1994.

2066 Supply and treatment of water
2065 Healthcarewaste management— segregationof
waste streams in clinical areas
87
About NHS Estates
NHS Estates is an Executive Agency of the Department of Health TechnicalMemoranda— guidance on the design,
Health and is involved with all aspects of health estate installation and running of specialised building service
management,development and maintenance.The Agency systems, and on specialised building components. SO
has a dynamic fund of knowledge which it has acquired
during over 30 years of working in the field. Usingthis Health FacilitiesNotes— debate current and topical
knowledge NHS Estates has developed products which are issues of concern across all areas of healthcareprovision.
unique in range and depth. Theseare describedbelow. SO
NHS Estates also makes its experienceavailable to the field
throughits consultancy services. Encode — shows how to plan and implement a policy of
energy efficiency in a building. SO
Enquiries aboutNHSEstates should be addressedto:
NHS Estates, PublicationsUnit, Department of Health, Firecode — for policy, technical guidance andspecialist
1 Trevelyan Square, Boar Lane, Leeds LS1 6AE. aspects of fire precautions.SO
Telephone 0113254 7000.
httpi/www.demon.co.uk/nhsestates/hpage.htmV Capital Investment Manual Database— software
support for managing the capital programme. Compatible
with Capital InvestmentManual. NHSEstates
Some NHS Estates products Model Engineering Specifications— comprehensive

advice used in briefingconsultants, contractors and
ActivityDataBase — a computerised briefing and design suppliers of healthcare engineering services to meet
systemfor use in health buildings, applicable to both new
Departmental policy and best practice guidance.
build and refurbishment schemes. NHSEstates
NHS Estates
Design Guides complementary to Health Building

—
Quarterly Briefing — gives a regular overview on the
Notes, Design Guides provide advice for planners and construction industry and an outlookon how this may
designers about subjects not appropriate to the Health affect building projects in the health sector, in particular
Building Notes series. SO the impact on business prices. Also providesinformation
on new and revised cost allowancesfor health buildings.
Estatecode — user manual for managing a health estate.
Publishedfourtimes a year; availableon subscription
Includesa recommended methodology for property
directfrom NHS Estates. NHS Estates
appraisal and providesa basisfor integration of the estate
into corporate business planning. SO
Items noted "SO" can be purchasedfrom The Stationery
Office Bookshops in London (post orders to P0 Box 276,
Concode— outlines proven methods of selecting contracts SW8 5DT), Edinburgh, Belfast, Manchester, Birmingham
and commissioningconsultants. Reflectsofficial policy on
and Bristol or throughgood booksellers.
contract procedures.SO
Works Information Management System —

a computerisedinformation system for estate NHS Estates consultancy service
managementtasks, enabling tangibleassets to be put into
the context of servicing requirements.NHSEstates Designedto meeta range of needs from advice on the
oversight of estates management functions to a much
Health Building Notes— advicefor project teams fuller collaboration for particularly innovative or exemplary
procuring new buildings and adapting or extending projects.
existing buildings. SO
Enquiries should be addressed to: NHS Estates Consultancy
Health Guidance Notes — an occasional series of Service (address as above).
publicationswhich respond to changes in Department of
Health policy or reflect changing NHS operational
management.Each deals with a specifictopic and is
complementaryto a related HIM. SO
PrintedintheUnited Kingdom forThe stationery Office C8 25748 9/97
88
11J1Estates
An Executive Agencyofthe Department of Health
Department of Health
1 Trevelyan Square
Boar Lane
Leeds
LS1 6AE
Fax 0113 254 7299
Telephone0113 254 7000
Dear Customer
FOLD
NHS Estates, we constantly striveto produce publications that are relevant to the demandsof the NHS
and our worldwide healthcare customers.
It would help us to provide you with a betterserviceif you could set aside a few minutes to complete the
questionnaire on the reverse, fold as shown and return in a window envelope.
Thank you for your comments.
Kate Priestley
Chief Executive
FOLD
KATE PRIESTLEY
CHtEF EXECUTIVE
NHS ESTATES
FREEPOST LS 5588
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September1997— HTM 2022Operational management

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London: The Stationery Office

Applications for reproduction should be made in writing to

First published 1997

A MGPS is installed to provide a safe, convenient and cost

Aboutthis publication 5.33 Contractors

2.0 Functionaloverview page5 7.0 Training and communications page32

11.0 Risk assessment — control of exposureto

12.0 Definitions page69

Appendix I — General safetyrequirements page73

Appendix II — Procedurefor breaking into an existing

Other publications in this series page87

AboutNHS Estates page88

1.1 This volume of Health TechnicalMemorandum (HTM) 2022covers the

c. nitrous oxide/oxygenmixture (50% vN),

d. nitricoxide (currently 1000 vpm in nitrogen),

h. waste anaestheticgas scavenging systems (AGSS).

1.4 An MGPS is intended to be a safe, convenient and cost-effective

1.6 It is not necessary to apply the guidance retrospectivelyunlesspatient

1.7 Existing installationsshould be assessed for compliancewith this

1.9 Whenever appropriate, British Standardsspecificationsshould be used.

1.11 This volume is intended for use by operational managers, engineers,

Basic description of an MGPS

2.3 A schematic diagram of a typical system is shown in Figure 1.

2.6 An oxygen concentrator (PSA) system may be used to supply an

2.7 Nitric oxide, nitrous oxide, nitrous oxide/oxygenmixture and

2.11 A non-user adjustablepressure control unit is required to maintain

2.12 Medical vacuum is provided by meansof a central vacuum plant.The

2.14 The pipeline distribution system also includesarea valve serviceunits

Pathology laboratory Accident& emergency

The followingare the most important statutory requirements relevantto

g. Pressure Systems and TransportableGas Containers Regulations 1989

h. Highly Flammable Liquid and Liquefied PetroleumGases Regulations(SI

j. Medicines Act 1968 (this applies in NI);

k. Manual Handling Operations Regulations1992 (SI 1992/2793); Manual

p. ElectromagneticCompatibility Regulations 1992 (SI 1992/2372).

Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974

Management of Health and Safety at Work

Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations

3.4 Most of these regulationsare to ensure a safe physicalworking

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations

Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous

3.6 The regulations (RIDDOR) impose duties to reportaccidents resulting in

Manual Handling Operation Regulations 1992

3.9 Management is responsiblefor assessing all the risks to avoid injury.

Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations

3.10 Managersshould assessthe risk associated with the operation of

3.12 Theseregulations apply to substancesthat have been classifiedas being

3.13 The specific responsibilitiesfor employersinclude assessment,

Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers

3.22 The regulationsgive specific requirementsfor the use and storage of

3.24 The quality controller (QC) is responsiblefor quality control of all

4.3 Some staffwill have other responsibilitiesunconnected with MGPS and

Previous editions of HTM 22 defined a

c. authorised person (MGPS);

d. competent person (MGPS);

4.10 The formal responsibilityfor the MGPS rests with an executive

4.11 The executive manager is responsiblefor the implementation of the

4.12 The executivemanager may delegate specific responsibilitiesto key

4.13 The estatesmanagement includes responsibilityfor the integrityof the