Mechanical Reliability of Hospital Oxygen Supply Systems and Its Impact on Respiratory Therapy

Abstract

Hospital oxygen supply systems are critical components of healthcare infrastructure, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs), emergency departments, operating rooms, neonatal units, and respiratory therapy services. The reliability of these systems depends on the coordinated performance of oxygen sources, storage facilities, pressure regulation devices, pipeline networks, valves, alarms, terminal units, and backup systems. Mechanical failures at any point in the oxygen delivery chain may result in pressure instability, interruption of oxygen availability, compromised ventilator performance, delayed respiratory interventions, and potentially serious patient-safety consequences. Respiratory therapists (RTs) are among the healthcare professionals most directly affected by the reliability of hospital oxygen infrastructure because many respiratory interventions—including mechanical ventilation, high-flow nasal cannula therapy, non-invasive ventilation, oxygen therapy, and emergency resuscitation—depend on a stable medical gas supply. Mechanical and facilities engineering teams, meanwhile, are responsible for maintaining the infrastructure that supports these clinical activities. This paper examines the mechanical reliability of hospital oxygen supply systems and its impact on respiratory therapy practice. It discusses major system components, common failure mechanisms, preventive and predictive maintenance, pressure and flow requirements, alarm systems, emergency preparedness, and interdisciplinary collaboration between respiratory therapists and engineering personnel. A reliability-centered approach integrating preventive maintenance, real-time monitoring, staff training, risk assessment, and contingency planning is proposed to enhance oxygen system resilience and patient safety.