NFPA-99 Practice Exam

What minimum first gauge pressure must flexible hoses in medical gas systems be rated for?

1. 200 p.s.i.

2. 400 p.s.i.

3. 800 p.s.i.

4. 1000 p.s.i.

The correct answer is: 1000 p.s.i.

Flexible hoses used in medical gas systems must be rated for a minimum first gauge pressure of 1000 p.s.i. This requirement is in place to ensure the safety and reliability of medical gas delivery systems, as they are critical in healthcare settings where pressure must be maintained to prevent leaks and ensure the proper function of gas supply. Rating the hoses at such a high pressure provides a significant safety margin, accommodating any potential fluctuations in pressure during the system's operation. This ensures that even under stress, the hoses will not fail, which is essential given that medical gases are used in life-support systems and other critical medical applications. Hoses rated below this threshold may not withstand the demands placed on them, increasing the risks associated with gas delivery, which can lead to hazardous situations. Therefore, the standard of 1000 p.s.i. is a crucial aspect of the design and implementation of safe medical gas systems.