The initial pressure test for positive pressure gases and vacuum systems shall have a test pressure of 1.5 times the system working pressure, but not less than what PSI?

The correct answer is 150 PSI because it aligns with the industry standards for pressure testing of medical gas systems. When conducting the initial pressure test, regulations stipulate that the test pressure must be set at 1.5 times the system’s working pressure. However, this requirement is complemented by a minimum threshold which ensures safety and reliability in medical environments.

The specification that the test pressure should not be less than 150 PSI provides an additional safety margin, ensuring that the system can withstand higher pressures than those it is typically subjected to during normal operation. This minimum limit helps to account for potential weaknesses in the system, ensuring that integrity issues can be identified before the system is put into service.

Choosing a value lower than 150 PSI might compromise the effectiveness of the pressure testing process, which is critical in maintaining the safety of medical gas installations. Systems often require rigorous testing to prevent leaks and ensure that they operate safely under expected conditions.