In the construction industry, particularly in the field of medical gas systems, certifications play a crucial role in advancing careers and ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality. The National Inspection Testing and Certification Corporation (NITC) offers two essential certifications for professionals in this field: Medical Gas Inspector 6020 and Medical Gas Verifier 6030. In this article, we will explore the requirements, benefits, and importance of these certifications in detail.
Medical Gas Inspector 6020 Certification
A Medical Gas Inspector is responsible for inspecting the installation of medical gas and vacuum distribution systems. This certification is essential to ensure that these systems meet the required standards for safety and functionality. To qualify for the Medical Gas Inspector 6020 certification, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Experience: Candidates must have a minimum of two years of documented practical experience in the inspection of medical gas systems. This experience can be gained through work as a plumbing or mechanical inspector, or in a related field where the individual is regularly involved in the design, inspection, or verification of medical gas systems.
- Training: Candidates must complete a minimum 24-hour training course conducted by an instructor certified to ASSE 6050. This training covers all facets of ASSE Standard 6000, NFPA 99-2015, and NFPA 50 or NFPA 55, providing candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their duties effectively.
- Examination: Candidates must pass a written examination that tests their knowledge of medical gas systems and related standards. The examination fee is $200, and a passing score of 80% is required to achieve certification. The application can be downloaded at https://nationalitc.com/6020-Medical-Gas-Inspector-Certification-Examination-Form
Benefits of Medical Gas Inspector Certification
- Demonstrates expertise: Certification demonstrates to employers and clients that you have the knowledge and skills required to inspect medical gas systems effectively.
- Career advancement: Certification opens up new career opportunities and can lead to higher salaries and greater job security.
- Professional recognition: Certification is a mark of professionalism and dedication to maintaining high standards in the field.
Recertification: Certification is valid for three years, after which recertification is required. Recertification ensures that certified professionals stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field and maintain their knowledge and skills.
Medical Gas Verifier 6030 Certification
A Medical Gas Verifier is responsible for testing and verifying medical gas and vacuum systems. This certification is essential to ensure that these systems are installed correctly and are functioning as intended. To qualify for the Medical Gas Verifier 6030 certification, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Experience: Candidates must have a minimum of two years of documented practical experience in the verification of medical gas piping systems. This experience must be substantiated by records or testimonial letters from employers.
- Training: Candidates must complete a minimum 32-hour training course conducted by a Medical Gas Systems Instructor certified to ASSE Standard 6050. This training covers the testing and verification process for medical gas systems.
- Examination: Candidates must pass a written examination that tests their knowledge of medical gas verification procedures and related standards. The examination fee is $400, and a passing score of 80% is required to achieve certification. The examination process and request form can be found at https://nationalitc.com/6030-Medical-Gas-Verifier-Certification-Examination-Form
Benefits of Medical Gas Verifier Certification
- Ensures compliance: Certification ensures that medical gas systems are installed and verified according to the required standards, ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Improves safety: Properly installed and verified medical gas systems are essential for ensuring the safety of patients and healthcare professionals.
- Career advancement: Certification opens up new career opportunities in the field of medical gas systems and can lead to higher salaries and greater job security.
Recertification: Certification is valid for three years, after which recertification is required. Recertification ensures that certified professionals stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field and maintain their knowledge and skills. The recertification application is available for download at https://nationalitc.com/files/galleries/Form-720-57-Rev-Registration-Form-for-Proctored-Medical-Gas-Recertification-Examination.pdf
Scope of ASSE 6060 Certification
ASSE 6060 standard applies to any individual who designs medical gas systems, new or existing, including the layout, sizing and selection of equipment and piping, location of medical gas outlet/vacuum inlets and assessment of existing systems for resizing or replacement. Medical gas systems and equipment covered in this standard include those in health care facilities within the scope of NFPA 99, Health Care Facilities Code. Medical gas systems encompass those distributing USP gases, medical vacuum, WAGD and support gas piping systems.
Blueprint objectives based on ASSE 6060 (and Annex K) content areas
- General Knowledge and Concepts
- Specific Knowledge Required for the Medical Gas Systems Designer
- Product Performance Knowledge
- Product Installation Knowledge
- System, Component, and Testing Knowledge
- Terminology
Candidate requirements for certification
The candidates for the ASSE 6060 certification shall have two (2) years documented experience in the mechanical and plumbing systems industry and require practical knowledge of the design of medical gas and vacuum systems.
Certification shall include the successful completion of a minimum 32-hour training course covering ASSE 6060, the essential requirements of NFPA 99, NFPA 55, FGI Guidelines and elements of design.
Course instruction shall be conducted by a Medical Gas Systems Instructor certified to ASSE 6050 and/or by any person with a minimum of 10 years documented experience in the mechanical and plumbing industry and a minimum of 5 years documented design experience in medical gas and vacuum systems.
Examination requirements for 6060 certifications
Certification shall include successful completion of a written exam demonstrating understanding of ASSE 6060 and elements from the applicable sections of NFPA 99, NFPA 55 and FGI Guidelines. The written exam shall be a minimum of 100 questions with a minimum passing score of 70%.
A minimum of 50% of the questions shall include practical design exercises requiring the use of the design principles and application of the rules in NFPA 99, NFPA 55 and FGI Guidelines.
The written exam shall demonstrate core competencies in:
a) Designing category space requirements
b) Placement of medical gas outlet/vacuum inlets, valves and alarms all gas and vacuum systems as required by the FGI Guidelines and NFPA 99.
c) Use of design principles and application of the rules for piping layout complete with sizing for medical gas systems.
d) Calculations for sizing of piping, intakes, exhausts, and source equipment.
NITC is currently looking for pilot test-takers for this exam. Any interested individuals should contact DJ Berger at: DJ@nationalitc.com.
The NITC Medical Gas Inspector and Verifier certifications are essential for professionals working in the field of medical gas systems. These certifications demonstrate expertise, ensure compliance with regulations, and open up new career opportunities. If you are considering a career in this field or are already working in it, obtaining these certifications can help you advance your career and make a positive impact in the industry.
For more details on The National Inspection Testing and Certification Corporation (NITC) testing programs, and examination procedures visit https://nationalitc.com/.