What is the minimum height requirement for the medical air intake above ground level?

The minimum height requirement for medical air intake above ground level is established to ensure that the air being drawn into the medical air system is free from contaminants that can compromise patient safety and system performance. A height of 20 feet is designed to reduce the risk of contamination from ground-level pollutants, including vehicle emissions, dust, and other airborne debris that could negatively impact the quality of the medical air being supplied.

By mandating this height, facilities can maintain compliance with safety and health regulations and standards, which are critical in healthcare environments where air quality is essential for patient care. This requirement also accounts for factors such as airflow patterns and the potential for obstruction from nearby structures or equipment, thereby ensuring the medical gas installation operates effectively and safely.