Attention: Hospital, Surgery Center, and Other Healthcare Facilities Managers!

If your facility is planning a renovation that will breach the piped medical gas system, pre-verifying that zone is essential to ensure compliance, safety, and efficiency.

Why is a Pre-Verification So Important?

• NFPA 99 Compliance: NFPA 99, Healthcare Facilities, includes requirements for medical gas systems nationwide. It not only mandates verifications of any zone where the medical gas system has been breached for renovations that disrupt the medical gas system. It also requires the correction of any notes and a follow-up verification to document those corrections before the medical gas system in that zone can be used for patient care.
• By proactively identifying and addressing existing deficiencies, their correction can be included in the original project scope. This will avoid costly delays and rework, minimize disruptions, and help keep the project on time and budget. 
• Clear Project Scope and Responsibilities: A pre-verification helps establish a clear project scope and outlines the responsibilities of the facility and the contractor. This can prevent misunderstandings and disputes later in the project, ensuring a smooth and efficient project.

How to Implement a Pre-Verification:

• Include in RFP: When soliciting bids from contractors, include a requirement for a pre-verification report in the request for proposal (RFP). This ensures that all potential contractors know the requirements and can provide appropriate pricing and timelines.
• Address Identified Issues: If the pre-verification shows any deficiencies, please ensure they are addressed in the construction documents and project plans. This will help prevent costly rework and ensure the final system meets all safety and regulatory requirements.
• Document the Process: Maintain detailed records of the pre-verification report, any identified issues, and all subsequent verification reports.

Benefits of a Pre-Verification:

• Reduced Delays: Pre-verification can help prevent costly delays and ensure the project is completed on time by identifying potential issues early.
• Improved Safety: A pre-verification helps ensure the medical gas system meets all safety standards, protecting patients and staff from potential hazards.
• Cost Savings: By avoiding unexpected problems and rework, a pre-verification can save your facility money.
• Enhanced Compliance: A pre-verification helps ensure your facility complies with NFPA 99 and other relevant regulations.

Call your MTA facility advisor today for more information on pre-verifications and how they benefit your facility. A pre-verification, will help protect your facility, ensure patient safety, and avoid costly delays and disruptions.