“Grandfathering” is a term frequently utilized by facilities pertaining to items, or systems that do not meet current code requirements. The question is, who is responsible for determining this, and how does the facility come to this determination? The short answer is, the “Responsible Facility Authority (RFA)” through risk assessment. Below are the relevant code references that define and guide you through this process:

NFPA 99, 2024 Edition:

 5.1.1.3 states: “An existing system that is not in strict compliance with the provisions of this code shall be permitted to be continued in use, unless the authority having jurisdiction has determined that such use constitutes a distinct hazard to life”

5.1.14.1.2.2 (1) states: “Advising on section 1.3 and the risk assessment in accordance with Section 4.2, as these apply to piped medical gas and vacuum systems, and the interpretations of Sections 5.1 through 5.3, as they apply to the facility”

4.2 Addresses risk assessment

1.3.2.1 – 1.3.2.3 address application of code pertaining to altered, renovated, and or modernization of existing medical gas systems and their components in your facility