Medical air filters must be rated for what minimum efficiency at 1 micron or greater?

Medical air filters must be rated for a minimum efficiency of 98% at 1 micron or greater to ensure the highest level of air quality and safety in healthcare environments. This high efficiency is critical because even small particulate matter can pose significant risks, particularly in settings that require sterile conditions, such as operating rooms and critical care units.

A filter that meets this standard is capable of removing a vast majority of airborne contaminants, including bacteria, dust, and other particulates that could compromise patient care or lead to infections. The stringent requirement for a 98% efficiency ensures that the air supplied to patients through medical gas systems is clean and safe, aligning with regulatory and safety standards set for healthcare practices.

Filters with lower efficiency ratings, such as 80%, 90%, or 95%, would not provide the same level of protection, thereby increasing the risk of harmful particles remaining in the air supply. This highlights the importance of maintaining rigorous standards in medical environments, where air quality is directly linked to patient health outcomes.