Installation and Maintenance:
- Supervise the installation and regular maintenance of medical gas pipelines and related systems.
- Ensure the safe operation of medical gas equipment, including regulators, manifolds, cylinders, and alarms.
- Oversee routine checks and repairs to ensure that all systems meet performance standards.
System Testing and Compliance:
- Conduct regular testing of medical gas systems to ensure they meet safety and operational standards.
- Monitor gas pressure levels, leak testing, and alarm functionality to ensure that systems are reliable.
- Ensure that medical gas systems comply with relevant industry codes and standards, such as the NFPA 99 (Health Care Facilities Code), ANSI, OSHA, and other local regulations.
Safety and Training:
- Implement safety protocols and provide guidance on the proper handling, storage, and use of medical gases.
- Train healthcare staff on the proper use of medical gas equipment, emergency response procedures, and safety measures.
- Ensure that the facility is prepared for emergency situations involving medical gas systems, such as gas supply failures or leaks.
Inventory and Supply Management:
- Monitor and manage the inventory of medical gas cylinders, regulators, and other related supplies.
- Coordinate with suppliers to ensure that the facility has an adequate and timely supply of medical gases.
- Ensure that all medical gas equipment is properly labeled, tracked, and stored according to regulatory guidelines.
Troubleshooting and Problem Solving:
- Respond to issues or breakdowns with medical gas systems, such as low pressure, leaks, or equipment failures.
- Perform diagnostic tests and repairs to minimize downtime and ensure the continuous operation of the system.
- Coordinate with engineers, technicians, and external contractors for complex repairs or upgrades.
Regulatory Compliance and Documentation:
- Maintain up-to-date records of medical gas system installations, inspections, repairs, and testing.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable codes and standards related to medical gas systems.
- Prepare and submit reports as required for inspections, audits, and compliance reviews.
Collaboration and Coordination:
- Work with facility management, engineers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure seamless operation of medical gas systems.
- Participate in the planning and design of new installations or system upgrades.
- Provide input on the layout and design of medical gas systems in new healthcare facilities or renovation projects.
Skills
Technical Expertise:
- In-depth knowledge of medical gas systems, including pipelines, cylinders, regulators, valves, and alarms.
- Familiarity with various types of medical gases (e.g., oxygen, nitrogen, nitrous oxide, medical air, and vacuum).
- Understanding of the principles behind medical gas systems, including flow rates, pressure, and safety protocols.
Regulatory Knowledge:
- Familiarity with healthcare codes and standards such as NFPA 99 (National Fire Protection Association), FDA regulations, OSHA, and CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services).
- Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations governing the installation, operation, and maintenance of medical gas systems.
Safety Awareness:
- Strong focus on safety, including proper handling and storage of medical gases, personal protective equipment (PPE), and emergency response protocols.
- Awareness of potential hazards such as oxygen enrichment, fire risks, and pressure vessel safety.
Problem-Solving and Troubleshooting:
- Ability to diagnose and resolve problems with medical gas systems, minimizing system downtime and ensuring the safety of patients and staff.
- Quick response to medical gas failures or emergencies, with an understanding of how to restore normal operations.
Project Management:
- Ability to coordinate and supervise the work of technicians and contractors for installations, upgrades, and maintenance projects.
- Organizational skills to manage inventory, schedule maintenance, and ensure compliance with deadlines.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills:
- Effective communication with staff and management to ensure understanding of medical gas system procedures, safety, and issues.
- Ability to train and educate staff on the use of medical gas systems and associated safety protocols.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Strong record-keeping skills to maintain detailed logs of inspections, tests, repairs, and compliance audits.
- Ability to prepare accurate reports for inspections, audits, and regulatory reviews.