NFPA-99 Practice Exam

What is one of the significant risks associated with radiant heaters in medical gas systems?

1. Overheating of liquids.

2. Flammability of nearby materials.

3. Disruption of gas flow.

4. Condensation buildup.

The correct answer is: Flammability of nearby materials.

One of the significant risks associated with radiant heaters in medical gas systems is the flammability of nearby materials. Radiant heaters generate focused heat, which can raise the temperature of surrounding objects. In a medical setting where various materials are present, some may be combustible or have low ignition points. This creates a potential fire hazard if these materials are situated too close to the heater. Awareness and management of this risk are critical in ensuring safety within medical gas systems. Other factors, while relevant in specific contexts, do not represent the primary concern related to radiant heaters in the context of medical gases. For example, while overheating of liquids can occur, it is less directly associated with the operation of radiant heaters when compared to fire risks. Similarly, disruption of gas flow and condensation buildup are more related to system design and maintenance rather than the operation of heaters per se. Thus, the flammability of nearby materials stands out as a key risk that must be managed to maintain a safe environment in medical settings.