Who must clean fittings for positive pressure medical gas systems for oxygen service?

In the context of positive pressure medical gas systems, the responsibility for cleaning fittings for oxygen service primarily lies with the manufacturer or supplier. This requirement stems from safety and performance standards given the critical role that cleanliness plays in preventing contamination that could compromise the purity of medical gases like oxygen.

Oxygen is highly reactive, and any contaminants, such as oils or particulates, can create a significant risk of combustion or degradation of the gas quality. Manufacturers and suppliers are expected to adhere to strict cleaning and handling protocols to ensure that all components are appropriately prepared for medical use before they reach healthcare facilities. This is often part of their quality assurance processes, aligning with industry standards set by bodies like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Compressed Gas Association (CGA).

While healthcare facility staff and end-users play crucial roles in maintaining the overall safety and functionality of the medical gas systems once they are installed, the initial cleaning and preparation of fittings are specifically the responsibility of the manufacturer or supplier. Regulatory agencies monitor compliance but do not typically perform cleaning operations themselves.