We want to bring everyone up to speed on system inspections as required in NFPA 99 (2018 Edition) – specifically Section 5.1.12.3.1, which states:
“System inspections shall be performed prior to concealing piping distribution systems in walls, ceilings, chases, trenches, underground, or otherwise hidden from view.”
There’s been some confusion around this requirement, so let’s take a moment to clear things up.
Who Can Perform a System Inspection?
Per NFPA 99 (2018) 5.1.12.3.1.3:
“Inspections shall be conducted by a party technically competent and experienced in the field of medical gas and vacuum pipeline inspections and testing and meeting the requirements of ASSE 6020 or ASSE 6030.”
Only inspectors or verifiers meeting these ASSE qualifications are authorized to perform System Inspections.
What Must Be Witnessed?
Refer to NFPA 99 (2018) 5.1.12.2.3 – Initial Pressure Test for full details.
5.1.12.2.3.4
The test pressure for pressure gases and vacuum systems shall be 1.5 times the system operating pressure but not less than a gauge pressure of 1035 kPa (150 psi).
Pay particular attention to 5.1.12.2.3.5:
“The test pressure shall be maintained until each joint has been examined for leakage by means of a leak detectant that is safe for use with oxygen and does not contain ammonia.”
The inspector must witness this test.
Don’t Forget Labeling and Tagging!
Also required under NFPA 99 (2018) 5.1.12.3.2.2:
“The presence and correctness of labeling and valve tagging required by this code for all concealed components and piping distribution shall be inspected.”
Additional Guidance:
This inspection should be viewed as a “rough” inspection, similar to those conducted for other plumbing systems in hospital projects.
For larger projects, multiple inspections may be required if the concealing of piping and/or components occurs in phases. In these cases, each phase must be inspected as required before being covered.
Ensuring these inspections are performed correctly keeps our systems compliant, properly documented, and most importantly, safe for patient care environments.
Need Help?
Contact us today if you have any questions or need clarification on performing or documenting System Inspections, Contact us today!
