What is the primary risk associated with using PVC piping for medical gas distribution?

The primary risk associated with using PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) piping for medical gas distribution is its incompatibility with oxygen-enriched environments, creating a significant fire hazard. PVC is a combustible material and can ignite and burn readily in the presence of high concentrations of oxygen. Medical gases, such as oxygen and nitrous oxide, are often stored and distributed at elevated pressures and concentrations. If a leak or rupture occurs in a PVC medical gas pipeline, the released gas can create an oxygen-enriched atmosphere. Any ignition source, such as a spark or static electricity, can then easily ignite the PVC pipe, leading to a rapid and intense fire. For this reason, codes and standards such as NFPA 99, Health Care Facilities Code, explicitly prohibit the use of PVC piping for medical gas distribution systems. Approved materials for medical gas piping include copper, stainless steel, and certain other non-combustible materials that are specifically designed and tested for use with medical gases.