Risk Assessment of Medical Gas System and Its Maintenance: A Scoping Review

This scoping review systematically examines the existing body of knowledge regarding medical gas systems (MGS) and their maintenance, with a focus on risk assessment and regulatory standards. The review explores how different countries have adopted various standards and the importance of continuous education for maintenance personnel on emerging technologies used in healthcare facilities. As new medical technologies are integrated into these facilities, the maintenance of MGS becomes increasingly complex, necessitating ongoing upgrades and optimization to ensure reliability and safety. Additionally, the review assesses the risk classification of medical gases in relation to different classes of medical devices and provides insights into the costs associated with the registration of MGS across various countries. The findings reveal significant differences in both registration costs and risk categorizations, largely influenced by the prevailing regulatory systems. Furthermore, the review highlights the involvement of multiple stakeholders in formulating and implementing MGS requirements, which complicates the monitoring and enforcement of these regulations. By organizing the literature according to specific criteria, such as MGS components and geographic coverage, this review enhances our understanding of the current research landscape and identifies areas where further investigation may be needed. The results demonstrate the critical need for design improvements and continuous maintenance in response to growing healthcare demands and technological advancements. This scoping study provides a valuable foundation for those involved in the regulation, maintenance, and establishment of medical gas systems, ultimately contributing to improved safety and efficacy in healthcare delivery.