§ 23.25.1309.8. Vacuum systems for dental offices.

Amend Part II - Medical Gas and Vacuum Systems by adding a new section 1309.8 as follows:

1309.8 Vacuum systems for dental offices. The purpose of this amendment is to point out and clarify the requirements for wet vacuum systems in dental offices. Refer to NFPA 99C (most current edition) [NFPA 99 5.3.10] for full text of these requirements.

A.

Level 3 wet vacuum systems (in dental offices) may be installed using schedule 40 PVC with pressure fittings [NFPA 99 5.3.10.2 and 5.3.10.3]. Piping and fittings installed in plenums shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke developed rating of not more than 50.

B.

The wet vacuum system (in dental offices) is considered a Level 3 system if:

1.

The system is entirely separate from other Level 1 systems.

2.

The occupancy to be served and the function of the occupancy is distinct from other occupancies in the building.

3.

The patient population, during or subsequent to treatment, are not dependent for life on the vacuum system, and the treatment the facility performs may be completed without detrimental effect on patient outcomes in the event of sudden loss of vacuum systems [NFPA 99 Chapter 18].

C.

The wet vacuum system (in dental offices) shall be verified by a third party technically competent and experienced in the field of Level 3 vacuum systems and testing, and meeting the requirements of ANSI/ASSE Standard 6030 [NFPA 5.3.12.3].

( AO No. 2015-127, § 1, 4-1-16 )