CPC · California Plumbing Code

Required operating pressures and standard designation colors for medical gases and vacuum

Q: What do I do if my system needs a pressure outside the ranges in Table 1305.1?

You must still install the system but include the nonstandard operating pressure on outlet and valve identifications; provide separate pressure-regulating equipment, relief valves, and source shutoffs for that pressure as applicable. § 1305.1 , Table 1305.1 and labeling rules require identification of nonstandard pressures.

Q: Can I paint medical gas piping to match the color code?

No. Medical gas piping shall not be painted. Identification must be by stenciling or adhesive markers using the Table 1305.1 color code.

Q: If a gas mixture is used, which color do I use?

Use the major gas color for the background and the minor gas color for the text (as indicated for “other mixtures” in Table 1305.1).

Q: Is vacuum expressed in psi in Table 1305.1?

No. Medical–surgical vacuum standard is given in inch HgV (e.g., 15 inch to 30 inch HgV ). Table 1305.1 includes SI conversion notes.

Q: Where must nonstandard pressure be shown?

Nonstandard operating pressure must be included in the station outlet identification and on valve labeling when systems operate outside the standard ranges in Table 1305.1.

The California Plumbing Code requires medical gas and vacuum systems to deliver the exact pressures shown in Table 1305.1 and use the table’s specified colors for identification. Outlets and valves must be labeled with the gas name and color; if a system runs at a nonstandard pressure, that pressure must also appear on the label.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires

Medical gas and vacuum systems must be capable of delivering service at the standard operating pressures listed in Table 1305.1 and must use the standard designation colors shown there. The controlling rule is § 1305.1 and Table 1305.1 of the California Plumbing Code. § 1305.1 requires systems to be capable of delivering service in the pressure ranges listed in Table 1305.1.

The single most important rule: design and install medical gas and vacuum systems to deliver the pressures and use the colors exactly as set out in Table 1305.1 (and identify any nonstandard pressures on outlets/valves).

Requirements in detail

Defined terms (first use)

Medical gas — the pipeline gases used for patient care (oxygen, medical air, nitrous oxide, etc.). § 1307.1 defines the scope of medical gas terms.
Medical–surgical vacuum — the vacuum system used for patient care (listed in Table 1305.1).
Standard gauge pressure — the range of gauge pressures associated with each gas service in Table 1305.1. § 1305.1 requires systems to meet these values.

Key pressure and color requirements (decision table)

The table below extracts the decision-relevant columns from Table 1305.1. The Code Reference column points to the CPC table or section that requires each value.

Gas service (short)	Abbrev.	Standard designation color (background / text)	Standard gauge pressure (code value)	Code Reference
Medical air	Med Air	Yellow / black	50–55 psi	Table 1305.1; § 1305.1
Carbon dioxide	CO2	Gray / black or gray / white	50–55 psi	Table 1305.1; § 1305.1
Helium	He	Brown / white	50–55 psi	Table 1305.1; § 1305.1
Nitrogen	N2	Black / white	55–185 psi	Table 1305.1; § 1305.1
Nitrous oxide	N2O	Blue / white	50–55 psi	Table 1305.1; § 1305.1
Oxygen	O2	Green / white or white / green	50–55 psi	Table 1305.1; § 1305.1
O2/CO2 mixtures	O2/CO2 n%	Green / white (major gas color)	50–55 psi	Table 1305.1; § 1305.1
Medical–surgical vacuum	Med Vac	White / black	15 inch to 30 inch HgV	Table 1305.1; § 1305.1
WAGD (waste anesthetic gas disposal)	WAGD	Violet / white	Varies with system type (see Table)	Table 1305.1; § 1305.1
Instrument air	(instrument air)	Red / white	50–185 psi	Table 1305.1; § 1305.1
Nonmedical/dental air & vacuum, laboratory air & vacuum, other mixtures	–	Distinct stripe/checkerboard patterns as listed	None (no standard pressure)	Table 1305.1; § 1305.1

Notes:

Pressure units: Table 1305.1 gives pressures in psi and vacuum in inch HgV; SI conversions are provided in the table.
Instrument air / nitrogen: nitrogen and instrument air may operate at higher ranges (up to 185 psi) where permitted by system design — Table 1305.1 lists 55–185 psi and 50–185 psi respectively.

Labeling and identification tied to pressures and colors

Station outlets, inlets, piping, and valves must be identified by the name/chemical symbol and the color code from Table 1305.1.
Where a positive-pressure gas system operates at a pressure different from the standard gauge pressure shown in Table 1305.1, the outlet or valve identification must also include the nonstandard operating pressure. (See the CPC requirements for outlet labeling.)

Exceptions & special cases

Some services in Table 1305.1 are listed with “None” for a standard gauge pressure (for example, nonmedical/dental air, laboratory services, and “other mixtures”) — these have no CPC standard operating pressure and must be handled per the project design and authority having jurisdiction.
WAGD is shown with “Varies with system type”; the code does not fix a single gauge pressure for WAGD in Table 1305.1. Designers must follow the appropriate WAGD system standards and label per Table 1305.1.
When multiple piping systems for the same gas at different operating pressures are provided, the code requires separate pressure-regulating equipment, relief valves, and source shutoff valves for each pressure. See the CPC requirements on pressure-regulating equipment.

Common mistakes

Relying on pipe paint instead of proper labeling: medical gas piping shall not be painted; identification must be by stenciling or adhesive markers per Table 1305.1 color code. Do not paint medical gas piping.
Omitting the nonstandard pressure on outlet/valve labels when a system operates outside the listed standard ranges (e.g., nitrogen at 160–185 psi): the code requires that the nonstandard pressure be included on the identification.
Mixing up colors: use the background and text colors as listed (major gas for background, minor for text when mixtures are named). Table 1305.1 prescribes exact background/text combinations.
Assuming every listed service has a standard pressure: several entries explicitly show None for pressure — those services are outside the fixed operating-pressure requirements of Table 1305.1.

Worked example

Scenario: A hospital sets up piped oxygen and a separate instrument air system for operating rooms.

From Table 1305.1, oxygen (O2) standard gauge pressure is 50–55 psi, color Green/white. The designer specifies a supply pressure of 50 psi nominal; outlets must deliver that pressure and be labeled O2 with the green/white color per the table. § 1305.1 and Table 1305.1 require this.
Instrument air per Table 1305.1 has a 50–185 psi range and Red/white color. The hospital needs instrument air at 125 psi for equipment. Because 125 psi is within the Table range, the system may be installed at that operating pressure; outlets must be color-identified Red/white. If instead instrument air was supplied at 200 psi (above Table range), the outlet and relevant valve identifications would need to include the nonstandard operating pressure (labeling requirement).

Related provisions (CPC sections to review)

§ 1305.1 — Required operating pressures; directs users to Table 1305.1.
Table 1305.1 — Standard designation colors and operating pressures for gas and vacuum systems.
§ 1323.13 — Labeling, identification, and operating pressure (pipe labeling requirements tied to Table 1305.1).
§ 1323.14 — Identification of shutoff valves (labeling and inclusion of color/pressure).
§ 1308.1 — Pressure-regulating equipment (separate regulators required when multiple pressures exist).
§ 1324.5.10 — Operational flow pressure-drop tests at station outlets (tests reference the standard operating pressures).
§ 1327.7 — Standing pressure tests and test pressure requirements relative to normal operating pressure.

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Plumbing Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

CPC § 1304.3.1 High relevance — show source text

Approval of the plans shall be obtained before issuance of a permit by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. 1304.3.1 Requirements. Construction documents shall show the following: (1) Plot plan of the site, drawn to scale, indicating the location of existing or new cylinder storage areas, property lines, driveways, and existing or proposed buildings. (2) Piping layout of the proposed piping system or alteration, including alarms, valves, the origin of gases, user outlets, and user inlets. The demand and loading of piping, existing or future, shall also be indicated. (3) Complete specification of materials.

1304.4 Extent of Work. Construction documents submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall clearly indicate the nature and extent of the work proposed and shall show in detail that such work will be in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. 1304.5 Record. A record of as-built plans and valve identification records shall remain on the site.

1305.0 System Performance. 1305.1 Required Operating Pressures. Medical gas and vacuum systems shall be capable of delivering service in the pressure ranges listed in Table 1305.1.

276 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL VACUUM SYSTEMS

TABLE 1305.1

STANDARD DESIGNATION COLORS AND OPERATING PRESSURES FOR GAS AND VACUUM SYSTEMS

[NFPA 99: TABLE 5.1.11]

GAS SERVICE	ABBREVIATED NAME	COLORS (BACKGROUND/ TEXT)	STANDARD GAUGE PRESSURE
Medical air	Med Air	Yellow/black	50–55 psi
Carbon dioxide	CO2	Gray/black or gray/white	50–55 psi
Helium	He	Brown/white	50–55 psi
Nitrogen	N2	Black/white	55–185 psi
Nitrous oxide	N2O	Blue/white	50–55 psi
Oxygen	O2	Green/white or white/green	50–55 psi
Oxygen/carbon dioxide mixtures	O2/CO2 n% (_n _= % of CO2)	Green/white	50–55 psi
Medical–surgical vacuum	Med Vac	White/black	15 inch to 30 inch HgV
Waste anesthetic gas disposal	WAGD	Violet/white	Varies with system type
Medical-surgical vacuum/ WAGD combination	Med-surg/WAGD	White/black and violet/white	15 inch to 30 inch HgV
Other mixtures	Gas A% / Gas B%	Colors as above; major gas for back- ground/minor gas for text	None
Nonmedical air and dental air	––	Yellow and white diagonal stripe/black	None
Nonmedical vacuum and dental vacuum	––	White and black diagonal stripe/black boxed	None
Laboratory air	––	Yellow and white checkerboard/black	None
Laboratory vacuum	––	White and black checkerboard/black boxed	None
Instrument air	––	Red/white	50–185 psi

For SI units: 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa, 1 inch of mercury vacuum (HgV) = 3.386 kPa

CPC § 1304.1 High relevance — show source text
1304.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276

1304.2 Certification of Systems . . . . . . . .276

1304.3 Construction Documents . . . . . . .276

1304.4 Extent of Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276

1304.5 Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276

1305.0 System Performance . . . . . . . . . .276

1305.1 Required Operating Pressures . . .276

Table 1305.1 Standard Designation Colors and Operating Pressures for Gas and Vacuum Systems . . . . . .277

1305.2 Minimum Flow Rates . . . . . . . . . .277

1305.3 Minimum Station Outlets

and Inlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .277

1306.0 System Certification . . . . . . . . . . .277

1306.1 Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .277

1306.2 Certification Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . .277

1306.3 Report Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .277

1306.4 Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .277

Table 1305.2 Minimum Flow Rates . . . . . . . . . .277

Table 1305.3 Minimum Outlets and Inlets

Per Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .278

PART II Category 1 Piped Gas and Vacuum Systems . . . . . . . . . . . .278

1307.0 Central Supply Systems . . . . . . . .278

1307.1 Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .278

1307.2 Nature of Hazards of Gas

and Vacuum Systems . . . . . . . . .278

1307.3 Permitted Locations for

Medical Gases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .278

1307.4 Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .278

1308.0 Pressure-Regulating Equipment . .278

1308.1 Where Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . .278

1308.2 Pressure Relief Valves . . . . . . . . .278

1308.3 Pressure-Relief Valve

Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .279

1309.0 Oxygen Concentrator Supply Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .279

1309.1 Oxygen Requirements . . . . . . . . .279

1309.2 Particulate Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .279

1309.3 Suitability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .279

1309.4 Compatible Materials . . . . . . . . . .279

1309.5 Oxygen Concentrator Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .279
CPC § 1301.5 High relevance — show source text
TABLE OF CONTENTS

1301.5 Existing Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . .275

1302.0 Design Requirements . . . . . . . . . .275

1302.1 Risk Categories . . . . . . . . . . . . . .275

1302.2 Patient Care Spaces . . . . . . . . . .275

1302.3 Anesthesia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .275

1302.4 Wet Procedure Locations . . . . . . .275

1303.0 Health Care Facilities . . . . . . . . . .275

1303.1 Drinking Fountain Control Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .275

1303.2 Psychiatric Patient Rooms . . . . . .275

1303.3 Locations for Ice Storage . . . . . . .276

1303.4 Sterilizers and Bedpan Steamers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276

1303.5 Aspirators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276

1303.6 Drains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276

1303.7 Clinical Sinks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276

1303.8 Water Supply for Hospitals . . . . . .276

1303.9 Work Performed in Occupied Healthcare Facilities . . . . . . . . . . .276

1304.0 Medical Gas and Medical Vacuum Piping Systems . . . . . . .276

1304.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276

1304.2 Certification of Systems . . . . . . . .276

1304.3 Construction Documents . . . . . . .276

1304.4 Extent of Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276

1304.5 Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276

1305.0 System Performance . . . . . . . . . .276

1305.1 Required Operating Pressures . . .276

Table 1305.1 Standard Designation Colors and Operating Pressures for Gas and Vacuum Systems . . . . . .277

1305.2 Minimum Flow Rates . . . . . . . . . .277

1305.3 Minimum Station Outlets

and Inlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .277

1306.0 System Certification . . . . . . . . . . .277

1306.1 Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .277

1306.2 Certification Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . .277

1306.3 Report Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .277

1306.4 Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .277

Table 1305.2 Minimum Flow Rates . . . . . . . . . .277

Table 1305.3 Minimum Outlets and Inlets

Per Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .278
CPC § 5.1.11.2.2 High relevance — show source text
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2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 295

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL VACUUM SYSTEMS

psi (1103 kPa) to 185 psi (1276 kPa) for nitrogen or instrument air, the valve identification shall also include the nonstandard operating pressure. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.2]

1323.14.2 Source Valves. Source valves shall be

labeled in substance as follows:

SOURCE VALVE

FOR THE (SOURCE NAME)

[NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.4]

1323.14.3 Main Line Valves. Main line valves shall be

labeled in substance as follows:

MAIN LINE VALVE FOR THE

(GAS/VACUUM NAME)

SERVING (NAME OF THE BUILDING)

[NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.5]

1323.14.4 Riser Valves. The riser valve(s) shall be labeled in substance as follows:

RISER FOR THE (GAS/VACUUM NAME)

SERVING (NAME OF THE AREA/BUILDING

SERVED BY THE PARTICULAR RISER)

[NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.6]

1323.14.5 Service Valves. The service valve(s) shall be labeled in substance as follows:

SERVICE VALVE FOR THE

(GAS/VACUUM NAME) SERVING

(NAME OF THE AREA/BUILDING

SERVED BY THE PARTICULAR VALVE)

[NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.7]

1323.14.6 Zone Valve Box. Zone valve box assemblies shall be labeled with the rooms, areas, or spaces that they control as follows:

ZONE VALVES FOR THE

(GAS/VACUUM NAME)

SERVING (NAME OF ROOMS OR SPACES

SERVED BY THE PARTICULAR VALVE)

Labeling shall either be visible from outside the zone valve box assembly through the cover or be replicated on the outside, but not affixed to the removable cover. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.8]

1323.15 Identification. Station outlets and inlets shall be identified as to the name or chemical symbol for the specific medical gas or vacuum provided and shall include the following:

(1) Name of the gas or vacuum system or the chemical symbol in accordance with Table 1305.1

(2) Gas or vacuum system color code in accordance with Table 1305.1

In sleep labs, where the outlet is downstream of a flow control device, the station outlet identification shall include a warning not to use the outlet for ventilating patients.

Where medical gas systems operate at pressures other than the standard gauge pressure of 50 psi to 55 psi (345 kPa to 380 kPa) or a gauge pressure of 160 psi to 185 psi (1103 kPa to 1275 kPa) for nitrogen, the station outlet identification shall include the nonstandard operating pressure in addition to the name of the gas. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.3.1 – 5.1.11.3.2]
CPC § 1304.1.2 High relevance — show source text
1304.1.2 [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 3, 4 & 5] A medical gas source system serving an OSHPD 1, 2, 3 or 5 building shall not be located in an OSHPD 1R or OSHPD 3 build- ing. OSHPD 1R buildings may be served by an individ- ual main supply line from other OSHPD buildings, with a main line valve as per NFPA 99. [NFPA 99:5.1.4.2.1, 5.1.4.2.2, 5.1.4.3.1, 5.1.4.3.2] Valves shall be accessible and clearly labeled. Exception: A medical gas source system serving only an OSHPD 1R or 3 building may be located within it. 1304.2 Certification of Systems. Certification of medical gas and vacuum systems shall comply with the requirements of Section 1306.0.

1304.3 Construction Documents. Before a medical gas or medical vacuum system is installed or altered in a hospital, medical facility, or clinic, duplicate construction documents shall be filed with the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Approval of the plans shall be obtained before issuance of a permit by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. 1304.3.1 Requirements. Construction documents shall show the following: (1) Plot plan of the site, drawn to scale, indicating the location of existing or new cylinder storage areas, property lines, driveways, and existing or proposed buildings. (2) Piping layout of the proposed piping system or alteration, including alarms, valves, the origin of gases, user outlets, and user inlets. The demand and loading of piping, existing or future, shall also be indicated. (3) Complete specification of materials.

1304.4 Extent of Work. Construction documents submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall clearly indicate the nature and extent of the work proposed and shall show in detail that such work will be in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. 1304.5 Record. A record of as-built plans and valve identification records shall remain on the site.

1305.0 System Performance. 1305.1 Required Operating Pressures. Medical gas and vacuum systems shall be capable of delivering service in the pressure ranges listed in Table 1305.1.

276 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL VACUUM SYSTEMS

TABLE 1305.1

STANDARD DESIGNATION COLORS AND OPERATING PRESSURES FOR GAS AND VACUUM SYSTEMS

[NFPA 99: TABLE 5.1.11]
CPC § 5.1.10.11.11.6 High relevance — show source text
(2) The new employer obtains a copy of the record of brazer performance qualification tests from the previous employer and signs and dates these records, thereby accepting responsibility for the qualifications performed by the previous employer. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.11.6]

1323.11.6 Qualifications. Performance qualifications of brazers shall remain in effect indefinitely, unless the brazer does not braze with the qualified procedure for a period exceeding 6 months or there is a specific reason to question the ability of the brazer. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.11.7]

1323.12 Breaching or Penetrating Medical Gas Pip- ing. Positive pressure patient medical gas piping and medical support gas piping shall not be breached or penetrated by any means or process that will result in residual copper particles or other debris remaining in the piping or affect the oxygen-clean interior of the piping. The breaching or penetrating process shall ensure that any debris created by the process remains contained within the work area. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.12.1, 5.1.10.11.12.2]

1323.13 Labeling, Identification and Operating Pres- sure. Color and pressure requirements shall be in accordance with Table 1305.1. [NFPA 99:5.1.11]

1323.13.1 Pipe Labeling. Piping shall be labeled by stenciling or adhesive markers that identify the patient medical gas, the medical support gas, or the vacuum system and include the following:

(1) Name of the gas or vacuum system or the chemical symbol per Table 1305.1.

(2) Gas or vacuum system color code per Table 1305.1.

[NFPA 99:5.1.11.1.1]

1323.13.2 Pipe Pressure Labeling. Where positive pressure gas piping systems operate at pressures other than the standard gauge pressure in Table 1305.1, the operating pressure in addition to the name of the gas shall be labeled. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.1.2]

1323.13.3 Location of Pipe Labeling. Pipe labels shall be located as follows:

(1) At intervals of not more than 20 feet (6096 mm).

(2) At least once in or above every room.

(3) On both sides of walls or partitions penetrated by the piping.

(4) At least once in every story height traversed by risers. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.1.4]

1323.13.4 Paint. Medical gas piping shall not be painted. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.1.5]

1323.14 Identification of Shutoff Valves. Shutoff valves shall be identified with the following:

(1) Name or chemical symbol for the specific medical gas or vacuum system

(2) Gas or vacuum system color code in accordance with Table 1305.1

(3) Room or areas served

(4) Caution to not close or open the valve except in emergency [NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.1]

1323.14.1 Nonstandard Operating Pressures. Where positive pressure gas piping systems operate at pressures other than the standard gauge pressure of 50 psi (345 kPa) to 55 psi (379 kPa) or a gauge pressure of 160

«
CPC § 5.1.11.1.1 High relevance — show source text
[NFPA 99:5.1.11.1.1]

1323.13.2 Pipe Pressure Labeling. Where positive pressure gas piping systems operate at pressures other than the standard gauge pressure in Table 1305.1, the operating pressure in addition to the name of the gas shall be labeled. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.1.2]

1323.13.3 Location of Pipe Labeling. Pipe labels shall be located as follows:

(1) At intervals of not more than 20 feet (6096 mm).

(2) At least once in or above every room.

(3) On both sides of walls or partitions penetrated by the piping.

(4) At least once in every story height traversed by risers. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.1.4]

1323.13.4 Paint. Medical gas piping shall not be painted. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.1.5]

1323.14 Identification of Shutoff Valves. Shutoff valves shall be identified with the following:

(1) Name or chemical symbol for the specific medical gas or vacuum system

(2) Gas or vacuum system color code in accordance with Table 1305.1

(3) Room or areas served

(4) Caution to not close or open the valve except in emergency [NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.1]

1323.14.1 Nonstandard Operating Pressures. Where positive pressure gas piping systems operate at pressures other than the standard gauge pressure of 50 psi (345 kPa) to 55 psi (379 kPa) or a gauge pressure of 160

«

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2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 295

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL VACUUM SYSTEMS

psi (1103 kPa) to 185 psi (1276 kPa) for nitrogen or instrument air, the valve identification shall also include the nonstandard operating pressure. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.2]

1323.14.2 Source Valves. Source valves shall be

labeled in substance as follows:

SOURCE VALVE

FOR THE (SOURCE NAME)

[NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.4]

1323.14.3 Main Line Valves. Main line valves shall be

labeled in substance as follows:

MAIN LINE VALVE FOR THE

(GAS/VACUUM NAME)

SERVING (NAME OF THE BUILDING)

[NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.5]

1323.14.4 Riser Valves. The riser valve(s) shall be labeled in substance as follows:

RISER FOR THE (GAS/VACUUM NAME)

SERVING (NAME OF THE AREA/BUILDING

SERVED BY THE PARTICULAR RISER)

[NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.6]

1323.14.5 Service Valves. The service valve(s) shall be labeled in substance as follows:

SERVICE VALVE FOR THE

(GAS/VACUUM NAME) SERVING

(NAME OF THE AREA/BUILDING
CPC § 1307.0 High relevance — show source text
Notes: 1 Includes pediatric nursery. 2 Includes obstetric recovery. 3 Emergency trauma rooms used for surgical procedures shall be classified as general operating rooms. 4 Vacuum inlets required are in addition to inlets used as part of a scavenging system for removal of anesthetizing gases.

Part II – Category 1 Piped Gas and Vacuum Systems.

1307.0 Central Supply Systems.

1307.1 Terms. Where the terms medical gas or medical support gas occur, the provisions shall apply to all piped systems for oxygen, nitrous oxide, medical air, carbon dioxide, helium, nitrogen, instrument air, and mixtures thereof. Wherever the name of a specific gas service occurs, the provision shall apply only to that gas. [NFPA 99:5.1.1.3] 1307.2 Nature of Hazards of Gas and Vacuum Sys- tems. Potential fire and explosion hazards associated with positive pressure gas central piping systems and medical–surgical vacuum systems shall be considered in the design, installation, testing, operation, and maintenance of these systems. [NFPA 99:5.1.2]

1307.3 Permitted Locations for Medical Gases. Central supply systems for oxygen, medical air, nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide, and all other patient medical gases shall be piped only to medical gas outlets complying with Section 1315.0, into areas where the gases will be used under the direction of licensed medical professionals for purposes congruent with the following:

(1) Direct respiration by patients.

(2) Clinical application of the gas to a patient, such as the use of an insufflator to inject carbon dioxide into patient body cavities during laparoscopic surgery and carbon dioxide used to purge heart-lung machine blood flow

ways.

(3) Medical device applications directly related to respiration.

(4) Power for medical devices used directly on patients.

(5) Calibration of medical devices intended for Section 1307.3(1) through Section 1307.3(4).

(6) Simulation centers for the education, training, and assessment of health care professionals. [NFPA 99:5.1.3.5.2]

1307.4 Materials. Materials used in central supply systems shall meet the following requirements:

(1) In those portions of systems intended to handle oxygen at gauge pressures greater than 350 pounds-force per square inch (psi) (2413 kPa), interconnecting hose shall contain no polymeric materials.

(2) In those portions of systems intended to handle oxygen or nitrous oxide material, construction shall be compatible with oxygen under the temperatures and pressures to which the components can be exposed in the containment and use of oxygen, nitrous oxide, mixtures of these gases, or mixtures containing more than 23.5 percent oxygen.

(3) If potentially exposed to cryogenic temperatures, materials shall be designed for low temperature service.

(4) If intended for outdoor installation, materials shall be installed per the manufacturer’s requirements. [NFPA 99:5.1.3.5.4]

1308.0 Pressure-Regulating Equipment.

1308.1 Where Required. Pressure-regulating equipment shall be installed in the supply main upstream of the final linepressure valve. Where multiple piping systems for the same gas at different operating pressures are required, separate pressure-regulating equipment, relief valves, and source shutoff valves shall be provided for each pressure.

1308.2 Pressure Relief Valves. All pressure relief valves shall meet the following requirements:
CPC § 0.228 High relevance — show source text
657|0.228|0.096|0.025| |19.77|2.750|0.699|0.243|0.102|0.026| |20.48|2.925|0.744|0.258|0.109|0.028| |21.19|3.106|0.790|0.274|0.115|0.030| |24.72|4.074|1.034|0.358|0.151|0.039| |28.25|–|1.307|0.452|0.190|0.049| |31.78|–|1.608|0.556|0.234|0.060| |35.31|–|1.936|0.669|0.281|0.072| |38.84|–|2.291|0.791|0.332|0.085| |42.37|–|2.672|0.922|0.387|0.099| |45.90|–|3.078|1.062|0.446|0.113| |49.43|–|3.510|1.211|0.508|0.129| |52.97|–|3.969|1.368|0.574|0.146| |56.50|–|4.450|1.534|0.643|0.163| |63.56|–|–|1.890|0.792|0.201| |70.62|–|–|2.278|0.954|0.242| |77.68|–|–|2.699|1.130|0.286| |84.74|–|–|3.151|1.318|0.334| |91.81|–|–|3.634|1.520|0.385| |98.87|–|–|4.148|1.734|0.439| |105.93|–|–|4.691|1.961|0.496| |112.99|–|–|–|2.200|0.556|

For SI units: 1 standard cubic foot per minute = 28.32 SLPM, 1 inch = 25 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 inch of mercury = 3.386 kPa Notes: 1 Based on the pressure of 14.7 psig (101 kPa) at 68°F (20°C). 2 Based on the pressure of 19 inches of mercury gauge vacuum (64 kPa) at 68°F (20°C).

1323.3 Location of Piping. Piping risers shall be permitted to be installed in pipe shafts if protected from physical damage, effects of excessive heat, corrosion, or contact with oil. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.3.1] 1323.3.1 Prohibited Locations. Piping shall not be installed in kitchens, stairwells, elevator shafts, elevator machine rooms, areas with open flames, electrical service equipment over 600 volts, and areas prohibited Cal- ifornia Electrical Code except for the following locations:

(1) Room locations for medical air compressor supply systems and medical-surgical vacuum pump supply systems

(2) Room locations for secondary distribution circuit panels and breakers having a maximum voltage rating of 600 volts [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.3.2] **1323.3.2 Approved Locations.
CPC § 15.4.7.4.6.2 High relevance — show source text
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL VACUUM SYSTEMS

faceplates, and other distribution system components (e.g., pressure alarm devices, pressure indicators, line pressure relief valves, manufactured assemblies, and hoses). [NFPA 99:15.4.7.4.6.2]

1327.7.2 Source Valve. The source valve shall be closed during this test. [NFPA 99:15.4.7.4.6.3] 1327.7.3 Piping Systems. The piping systems shall be subjected to 24-hour standing pressure tests using oilfree, dry nitrogen NF. [NFPA 99:15.4.7.4.6.4] 1327.7.4 Test Pressure. Test pressures shall be 20 percent above the normal system operating line pressure.

[NFPA 99:15.4.7.4.6.5] 1327.7.5 Change in Test Pressure. At the conclusion of the tests, there shall be no change in the test pressure except that attributed to specific changes in ambient temperature. [NFPA 99:15.4.7.4.6.6] 1327.7.6 Leaks. Any leaks shall be located, repaired (if permitted), or replaced (if required) by the installer, and retested. [NFPA 99:15.4.7.4.6.7] 1327.8 Verifier Operational Pressure Test. Operational pressure tests shall be performed at each station outlet or terminal where the user makes connections and disconnections.

[NFPA 99:15.4.7.5.8.1] 1327.8.1 Test Gas. Tests shall be performed with the gas of system designation. [NFPA 99:15.4.7.5.8.2] 1327.8.2 Medical Gas Outlets. All medical gas outlets with a gauge pressure of 50 psi (345 kPa), including oxygen and nitrous oxide, shall deliver 1.8 standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM) (50 SLPM) with a pressure drop of not more than 5 psi (34 kPa) and static pressure of 50 psi (345 kPa) to 55 psi (379 kPa). [NFPA 99:15.4.7.5.8.3]

302 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

CHAPTER 14 - FIRESTOP PROTECTION

(Matrix Adoption Tables are non-regulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

|Adopting Agency
Adopt Entire Chapter
Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections
that are listed
CPC § 10.9 Medium relevance — show source text
[10.9] Underwriters Laboratory, Inc., 2013, UL Standard No. 913, “Standard for Intrinsically Safe Apparatus and Associated Appa- ratus for Use in Class I, II, III, Division 1, Hazardous (Classified) Locations,” 8th ed., Northbrook, IL.

[10.10] Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 47, Part 15 – Radio Frequency Devices (47 CFR 15)

[10.11] Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 33, Section 154.500 – Hose Assemblies (33 CFR 154.500)

[10.12] American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), 2013, ASME B16.5-2013 (ASME B16.5), “Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings,” 13th ed., New York.

[10.13] American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 2010, ASTM F1122-04(2010) (ASTM F1122), “Standard Specification for Quick Disconnect Couplings (6 in. NPS and Smaller),” 4th ed., West Conshohocken, PA.

[10.14] American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), 2010, ASME B30.4-2010 (ASME B30.4), “Portal Tower and Pedestal Cranes,” 10th ed., New York.

[10.15] American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), 2011, ASME B30.7-2011 (ASME B30.7), “Winches,” 11th ed., New York.

[10.16] American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) 1999, ASME HST-1999 (R2010) (ASME HST-4), “Performance Standard for Overhead Electric Wire Rope Hoists,” New York.

[10.17] Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 29, Section 1917.46 – Load Indicating Devices (29 CFR 1917.46)

[10.18] Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 29, Section 1918.22 – Gangways (29 CFR 1918.22)

[10.19] US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), 2008 (05 Jul 11), EM 385-1-1, “Safety and Health Requirements Manual, Sections 19.B and 21.E, Washington, D.C.

[10.20] International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF), International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), 2010, “International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals (ISGOTT),” 5th ed., Witherby, London.

[10.21] Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 33, Sections 154.2000 through 154.2250 – Vapor Control Systems (33 CFR 154.2000 et. seq.)

[10.22] American Petroleum Institute (API), 2005, API Standard 2610 (R2010), “Design, Construction, Operation, Maintenance, and Inspection of Terminal and Tank Facilities,” 2nd ed., Washington, D.C.

Authority: Sections 8750 through 8760, Public Resources Code.
CPC § 5.1.11.2.7 Medium relevance — show source text
(NAME OF THE AREA/BUILDING

SERVED BY THE PARTICULAR VALVE)

[NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.7]

1323.14.6 Zone Valve Box. Zone valve box assemblies shall be labeled with the rooms, areas, or spaces that they control as follows:

ZONE VALVES FOR THE

(GAS/VACUUM NAME)

SERVING (NAME OF ROOMS OR SPACES

SERVED BY THE PARTICULAR VALVE)

Labeling shall either be visible from outside the zone valve box assembly through the cover or be replicated on the outside, but not affixed to the removable cover. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.2.8]

1323.15 Identification. Station outlets and inlets shall be identified as to the name or chemical symbol for the specific medical gas or vacuum provided and shall include the following:

(1) Name of the gas or vacuum system or the chemical symbol in accordance with Table 1305.1

(2) Gas or vacuum system color code in accordance with Table 1305.1

In sleep labs, where the outlet is downstream of a flow control device, the station outlet identification shall include a warning not to use the outlet for ventilating patients.

Where medical gas systems operate at pressures other than the standard gauge pressure of 50 psi to 55 psi (345 kPa to 380 kPa) or a gauge pressure of 160 psi to 185 psi (1103 kPa to 1275 kPa) for nitrogen, the station outlet identification shall include the nonstandard operating pressure in addition to the name of the gas. [NFPA 99:5.1.11.3.1 – 5.1.11.3.2]

1324.0 Performance Criteria and Testing Category 1 (Gases, Medical Surgical Vacuum). 1324.1 Where Required. Inspection and testing shall be performed on components, or portions thereof, of new, piped medical gas or vacuum systems, additions, renovations, temporary installations, or repaired systems in accordance with Section 1324.2 through Section 1324.5.11, and certified in accordance with Section 1306.0.

1324.2 Breached Systems. All systems that are breached and components that are subject to additions, renovations, or replacement (e.g., new gas sources: bulk, manifolds, compressors, dryers, alarms) shall be inspected and tested. Systems shall be deemed breached at the point of pipeline intrusion by physical separation or by system component removal, replacement, or addition. Breached portions of the systems subject to inspection and testing shall be confined to only the specific altered zone and components in the immediate zone or area that is located upstream for vacuum systems and downstream for pressure gases at the point or area of intrusion. [NFPA 99:5.1.12.1.3 – 5.1.12.1.5]

1324.2.1 Reports. The inspection and testing reports shall be submitted directly to the party that contracted for the testing, who shall submit the report through channels to the responsible facility authority and any others that are required. Reports shall contain detailed listings of all findings and results. [NFPA 99:5.1.12.1.6, 5.1.12.1.7] 1324.3 Test Gas. The test gas shall be oil-free, dry nitrogen NF. [NFPA 99:5.1.12.2.1.2]

Frequently asked questions

What do I do if my system needs a pressure outside the ranges in Table 1305.1?

You must still install the system but include the nonstandard operating pressure on outlet and valve identifications; provide separate pressure-regulating equipment, relief valves, and source shutoffs for that pressure as applicable. § 1305.1, Table 1305.1 and labeling rules require identification of nonstandard pressures.

Can I paint medical gas piping to match the color code?

No. Medical gas piping shall not be painted. Identification must be by stenciling or adhesive markers using the Table 1305.1 color code.

If a gas mixture is used, which color do I use?

Use the major gas color for the background and the minor gas color for the text (as indicated for “other mixtures” in Table 1305.1).

Is vacuum expressed in psi in Table 1305.1?

No. Medical–surgical vacuum standard is given in inch HgV (e.g., 15 inch to 30 inch HgV). Table 1305.1 includes SI conversion notes.

Where must nonstandard pressure be shown?

Nonstandard operating pressure must be included in the station outlet identification and on valve labeling when systems operate outside the standard ranges in Table 1305.1.

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Related in the CPC

When does Chapter 13 (Health Care Facilities and Medical Gas/ Vacuum) apply?

Certification requirements and as-built / valve identification records

Risk categories and overarching design requirements

General applicability, certification, construction documents and records

California Plumbing Code