Shutdowns & back-feeding medical gas systems can provide functionality to a zone during construction. The ASSE 6000 series recommends a well-planned and documented procedure.
Healthcare Facility Responsibilities:
- Determine the gases needed and the location (s) of the shutdown.
- Assign a coordinator on staff. The coordinator will work with hospital staff and the installer.
- Plan the date and time for the shutdown. Coordinate with installer/vendor.
- This should be done with your clinical staff (physicians, nursing, and Respiratory Therapy dept).
- What is the current patient load and demand for the supply needed?
- Please inform the installer about the number of cylinders needed for the shutdown.
- Coordinate with the installer regarding the number of regulators, hoses, and carts/stands required for the shutdown based on patient load and demand.
- Advance order supplies (+50% is a recommendation).
- Prior to the shutdown, the coordinator and installer verify the locations of the backfeed and confirm that they support the areas being shutdown.
Installer/Vendor Responsibilities:
- Notify the Health Facility Coordinator when ready to begin the shutdown.
- Work with the Shutdown coordinator to leak-test the system.
- Notify the Health Facility Coordinator when the work is completed.
After The Shutdown & Backfeed:
- Run a blow-down test to ensure no visible particulate is noted at the outlets.
- Return patients from stand-by alternate supply to the operational pipeline system.
Don’t hesitate to contact us today to learn how our medical gas shutdown and backfeeding services can benefit your healthcare facility. Let us help you achieve compliance, performance, and peace of mind!
