This regulation establishes a three-tier risk classification system for piped medical gas, medical air, surgical vacuum, WAGD, and air supply systems based on the potential consequences of system failure, ranging from likely major injury or death (Category 1) to minor injury (Category 2) to discomfort only (Category 3). Facility operators must designate each system under the appropriate category. This is a physical plant/life safety standard applicable to facilities that use piped medical gas and vacuum systems.
View official sourceK903 Gas and Vacuum Piped Systems – Categories Medical gas, medical air, surgical vacuum, WAGD, and air supply systems are designated: ☐ Category 1. Systems in which failure is likely to cause major injury or death. ☐ Category 2. Systems in which failure is likely to cause minor injury. ☐ Category 3. Systems in which failure is not likely to cause injury, but can cause discomfort.