NFPA-99 Practice Exam

Which hazard is associated with level 1 support gases?

1. Asphyxiation.

2. Higher pressures.

3. More highly explosive.

4. Hazards are no different than with any other piped medical gases.

The correct answer is: More highly explosive.

Level 1 support gases primarily include oxygen and nitrous oxide, which are commonly used in medical settings. The correct choice, indicating that these gases are "more highly explosive," speaks to the inherent risks associated with specific gases under certain conditions. Oxygen, while essential for life, can significantly increase the flammability of materials. When mixed with flammable substances, the presence of high concentrations of oxygen can lead to increased risks of fire and explosion, particularly if there are any ignition sources present. Similarly, nitrous oxide can contribute to the explosive potential under the right conditions, especially in the presence of other combustible materials. Understanding the risks of these gases is crucial for ensuring safe handling and usage within healthcare facilities. Recognizing that these gases can potentially create a hazardous environment is essential in developing appropriate safety protocols and training for staff. In contrast, while asphyxiation can be a real hazard when dealing with gases like nitrogen or helium, it is not the primary risk associated with level 1 support gases, making the choice of asphyxiation less relevant in this context. Higher pressures can be a concern for storage and delivery systems; however, they do not uniquely define level 1 support gases compared to others. Lastly, suggesting that hazards are no