NFPA-99 Practice Exam

In what location must valves be secured according to the guidelines?

1. Near patient care areas

2. In an unlocked area for easy access

3. In a location approved by the authority having jurisdiction, latched or locked in operating position

4. In open areas to promote usage

The correct answer is: In a location approved by the authority having jurisdiction, latched or locked in operating position

The requirement for securing valves in a location approved by the authority having jurisdiction, and ensuring they are latched or locked in an operating position, is crucial for several reasons related to safety and compliance in healthcare facilities. These guidelines are established to ensure that gas supply systems, particularly those involving medical gases, are not inadvertently tampered with or turned off when care is needed. Securing valves in approved locations serves to limit access to authorized personnel only, thereby reducing the risk of accidental interruption of gas supply or misuse. This practice aligns with the overarching goals of NFPA 99, which emphasizes the safety and reliability of medical gas systems. By ensuring that valves cannot be easily altered or accessed by unauthorized individuals, facilities can maintain the integrity of critical medical services. The requirement for valves to be latched or locked in position further emphasizes the need for operational readiness and safety. This ensures that the valves remain in their designated open or closed states as required by the operational protocols, thus preventing potential hazards that could arise from an uncontrolled gas flow or supply interruption. In summary, the guidelines are designed to protect patients and staff by maintaining a secure environment around critical medical support systems.