What is the minimum requirement for in-building emergency reserves of medical gases?

The minimum requirement for in-building emergency reserves of medical gases is based on the expectation that a facility should be prepared for any potential interruptions in the supply of medical gases. The average day's supply is a key metric because it provides a baseline for the amount of gas typically consumed in a day under normal operating conditions. This ensures that there is sufficient reserve to meet patient needs during emergencies or unexpected supply chain disruptions.

The reasons the average day’s supply is critical include ensuring that hospitals and medical facilities can deliver uninterrupted patient care. In cases of emergencies, relying solely on peak usage or longer-term reserves may not be practical because a peak usage supply could lead to overstocking and wastage, while longer durations like a week’s supply might not be feasible due to space and equipment constraints.

In summary, the average day's supply establishes a reasonable balance between preparedness and practicality, ensuring a facility is equipped to handle typical day-to-day needs while maintaining readiness for unforeseen circumstances.