What must be outside each vital life support and anesthetizing location for emergencies?

In medical facilities, particularly in areas where vital life support and anesthetizing equipment is used, it is essential to ensure a safe and immediately accessible means of controlling gas supply in emergencies. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of having a zone valve for each medical gas and vacuum system positioned outside these critical locations.

Zone valves allow for the isolation of specific medical gas systems without shutting down the entire facility's supply. This capability is crucial during emergencies that may require rapid response to a leak, malfunction, or other hazardous situations. By having these valves accessible, medical personnel can quickly cut off the gas supply to an affected area, thereby preventing potential accidents or injuries while maintaining gas supply to other parts of the facility.

Understanding the role of zone valves highlights their importance in compliance with safety standards and codes that govern the use of medical gases in healthcare settings. The presence of these valves enhances the overall safety of the environment, ensuring that life-saving equipment can function reliably while also allowing for quick intervention when necessary.