CPC · California Plumbing Code
When does Chapter 13 (Health Care Facilities and Medical Gas/ Vacuum) apply?
If you install or alter a piped medical gas or vacuum distribution in a health‑care setting (manifold/compressor through fixed piping to wall outlets), Chapter 13 applies; portable cylinders, electrical/motor work, and other listed items are excluded — and NFPA 99 supplements Chapter 13 where called out.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
Chapter 13 applies when you are installing, testing, or verifying piped medical gas or medical vacuum systems (Categories 1, 2, and 3) or working on the special fixtures and systems used in health care facilities — from the central supply out to the station outlets or inlets in hospitals, clinics, and other health care facilities. This is the rule in § 1301.1.
If you are installing or altering piped medical gas/vacuum that serves a health‑care setting (from the source to the user outlet/inlet), Chapter 13 applies unless a specific exclusion in the chapter says it does not. (See § 1301.1 and § 1301.2.)
Requirements in detail
Scope (what the chapter covers)
- Chapter 13 covers:
- Special fixtures and systems in health care facilities. § 1301.1.
- Installation, testing, and verification of Categories 1, 2 and 3 medical gas and medical vacuum piping systems, from the central supply system to station outlets or inlets in hospitals, clinics and other health care facilities. § 1301.1.
- For Category 3 piped systems, only oxygen and nitrous oxide are permitted per § 1301.1.
Key decision dimensions (quick reference table)
| Decision question | What triggers Chapter 13? | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Is the work in a health‑care facility (hospital, clinic, etc.)? | Yes → Chapter 13 applies to special fixtures/systems. § 1301.1. | § 1301.1 |
| Is the work piped medical gas or vacuum from central supply to station outlets/inlets? | Yes → Chapter 13 applies for Categories 1, 2, 3. § 1301.1. | § 1301.1 |
| Is the system Category 3? | Allowed, but only oxygen and nitrous oxide for Category 3. § 1301.1. | § 1301.1 |
| Is the item listed in the exclusions (portable cylinders, WAGD, bulk systems, etc.)? | If listed in § 1301.2, Chapter 13 does not apply to that item (unless addressed elsewhere in the chapter). | § 1301.2 |
| Do NFPA 99 requirements conflict? | Chapter 13 must not be interpreted to conflict with NFPA 99; refer to NFPA 99 for items not addressed or beyond chapter scope. § 1301.3. | § 1301.3 |
What “from the central supply to the station outlet/inlet” means
- Chapter 13 explicitly covers the distribution piping between the central supply (manifold, compressor, cryogenic source) and the user terminal (station outlet or inlet) located in clinical spaces. § 1301.1.
- If a system or component is outside that scope (for example, portable cylinders used at each room instead of a piped distribution), the exclusion list in § 1301.2 must be checked.
Exceptions & special cases
The chapter does not apply to the following (selected list — see the full list in § 1301.2):
- Cylinder and container management, storage, and reserve requirements. § 1301.2(1).
- Bulk supply systems. § 1301.2(2).
- Electrical connections and requirements; motor requirements and controls. § 1301.2(3–4).
- Waste anesthetic gas disposal (WAGD) systems and scavenging systems. § 1301.2(6), (12).
- Surface‑mounted medical gas rail systems; portable compressed gas systems; breathing air replenishment (BAR) systems; medical support gas systems; gas‑powered device supply systems. § 1301.2(7–11).
Where NFPA 99 covers a matter or a portion of medical gas/vacuum systems not addressed in Chapter 13, the code directs the user to NFPA 99. § 1301.3.
Construction/equipment requirements in Chapter 13 generally apply only to new construction and new equipment unless an individual section modifies that application. § 1301.4.
For health‑care facilities regulated by OSHPD, additional NFPA 99/OSHPD provisions are cross‑referenced (see § 1304.1.1 in Chapter 13).
Common mistakes
- Treating every oxygen cylinder in a clinic as Chapter 13 work. Portable or single‑cylinder setups may be excluded under § 1301.2 — verify whether the system is a piped distribution from a central source (Chapter 13 applies) or a portable/compressed‑gas device (may be excluded). § 1301.1 and § 1301.2.
- Assuming Category 3 systems can provide any gas — Category 3 piped systems may only use oxygen and nitrous oxide (direct quote from § 1301.1).
- Ignoring NFPA 99: when Chapter 13 is silent or when system elements fall outside the chapter’s scope, NFPA 99 controls per § 1301.3.
- Applying Chapter 13 requirements to non‑piped equipment items that are explicitly excluded (e.g., electrical work, motors) — those are outside Chapter 13 and typically fall to the Mechanical, Electrical, or Fire codes (see § 1301.2).
Worked example
Scenario: A small clinic plans to install a central oxygen cylinder manifold in a mechanical room and run hard copper tubing to three treatment rooms, each ending at a wall station outlet. The clinic will use the piped oxygen for inhalation therapy and occasional minimal‑sedation procedures.
Step 1 — Is this a health‑care facility special plumbing system? Yes — it’s a clinic and the work is for medical gas outlets. Chapter 13 applies. § 1301.1.
Step 2 — Is the piping portion covered? Yes — the work is the piped distribution from the central supply (manifold) to the station outlets, which Chapter 13 explicitly regulates for Categories 1–3. § 1301.1.
Step 3 — Determine category: If the clinic’s risk assessment establishes the spaces as Category 3 (minimal or no sedation) and the piped system is intended for that use, Chapter 13 allows Category 3 piped systems but limits the gases to oxygen and nitrous oxide — so oxygen is permitted. § 1301.1 and (for Category 3 criteria) see Section 1326.1.
Step 4 — Exceptions check: Because this is a central manifold with piped distribution (not portable cylinders at each room), the § 1301.2 exclusions for portable compressed gas systems do not remove Chapter 13 coverage. § 1301.2.
Conclusion: The clinic must design, install, test, and certify the piped oxygen distribution per Chapter 13 requirements (and follow NFPA 99 where Chapter 13 refers to it). § 1301.1, § 1301.3, and construction document and certification sections apply.
Related provisions (useful to consult)
- § 1301.1 — Applicability of Chapter 13 (installation/testing/verification scope).
- § 1301.2 — Where the chapter is not applicable (exclusions list).
- § 1301.3 — Conflict of requirements with NFPA 99; directs to NFPA 99 for items not covered.
- § 1301.4 — Application to new construction and new equipment (where required).
- § 1304.1 — General requirements for medical gas and medical vacuum piping systems (design/installation).
- § 1304.3 — Construction documents required before installation/alteration.
- § 1326.1 — Criteria and limitations for Category 3 piped gas and vacuum systems (when permitted).
(If you need the exact NFPA 99 cross‑references or the full § 1301.2 exclusion list reproduced verbatim, I can extract the exact lines from the code text and show them — the snippets above summarize the chapter scope and exclusions as written in the CPC.)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Plumbing Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CPC § 1.1 High relevance — show source text
1.1_
1304.1.2||||||||||X|X|X|X|X|X||||||||||This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 273
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274 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
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CHAPTER 13
HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL VACUUM SYSTEMS
Part I – General Requirements.
1301.0 General Requirements.
1301.1 Applicability. This chapter applies to the special fixtures and systems in health care facilities; the special plumbing requirements for such facilities; and the installation, testing, and verification of Categories 1, 2, and 3 medical gas and medical vacuum piping systems, except as otherwise indicated in this chapter, from the central supply system to the station outlets or inlets in hospitals, clinics, and other health care facilities. Other plumbing in such facilities shall comply with other applicable sections of this code. For Category 3 medical gas systems, only oxygen and nitrous oxide shall be used.
1301.2 Where Not Applicable. This chapter does not apply to the following except as otherwise addressed in this chapter:
(1) Cylinder and container management, storage, and reserve requirements
(2) Bulk supply systems
(3) Electrical connections and requirements
(4) Motor requirements and controls
(5) Systems having nonstandard operating pressures
(6) Waste anesthetic gas disposal (WAGD) systems
(7) Surface-mounted medical gas rail systems
(8) Breathing air replenishment (BAR) systems
(9) Portable compressed gas systems
(10)Medical support gas systems
(11)Gas-powered device supply systems
(12)Scavenging systems 1301.3 Conflict of Requirements. The requirements of this chapter shall not be interpreted to conflict with the requirements of NFPA 99. For requirements of portions of medical gas and vacuum systems not addressed in this chapter or medical gas and vacuum systems beyond the scope of this chapter refer to NFPA 99.
1301.4 Where Required. Construction and equipment requirements shall be applied only to new construction and new equipment, except as modified in individual sections of this chapter. {NFPA 99:1.3.2} 1301.5 Existing Systems. Only the altered, renovated, or modernized portion of an existing system or individual component shall be required to meet the installation and equipment requirements stated in this code. If the alteration, renovation, or modernization adversely impacts the existing performance requirements of a system or component, additional upgrading shall be required. An existing system that is not in strict compliance with the provisions of this code shall be permitted to be continued in use, unless the Authority Having Jurisdiction has determined that such use constitutes a distinct hazard to life. [NFPA 99:1.3.2.1 – 1.3.2.3]
1302.0 Design Requirements. **1302.1 Risk Categories.
CPC § 1.1 High relevance — show source text
1.1_
1304.1.2|||X|||||||||||||X||||||||| |Adopting Agency
Adopt Entire Chapter
Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections
that are listed below
Chapter/Section
1304.1.1
1304.1.2||||||||||X|X|X|X|X|X|||||||||| |Adopting Agency
Adopt Entire Chapter
Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections
that are listed below
Chapter/Section
1304.1.1
1304.1.2||||||||||||||||||||||||| |Adopting Agency
Adopt Entire Chapter
Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections
that are listed below
Chapter/Section
1304.1.1
1304.1.2||||||||||||||||||||||||| |Adopting Agency
Adopt Entire Chapter
Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections
that are listed below
Chapter/Section
1304.1.1
1304.1.2||||||||||X|X|X|X|X|X|||||||||| |Adopting Agency
Adopt Entire Chapter
Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections
that are listed below
Chapter/Section
1304.1.1
1304.1.2||||||||||X|X|X|X|X|X||||||||||This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 273
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274 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
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CHAPTER 13
HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL VACUUM SYSTEMS
Part I – General Requirements.
1301.0 General Requirements.
1301.1 Applicability. This chapter applies to the special fixtures and systems in health care facilities; the special plumbing requirements for such facilities; and the installation, testing, and verification of Categories 1, 2, and 3 medical gas and medical vacuum piping systems, except as otherwise indicated in this chapter, from the central supply system to the station outlets or inlets in hospitals, clinics, and other health care facilities. Other plumbing in such facilities shall comply with other applicable sections of this code. For Category 3 medical gas systems, only oxygen and nitrous oxide shall be used.
CPC § 2025 High relevance — show source text
All methods used to determine volumes and peak flow use historical data. Drain location must be coordinated with the architectural design of the building. When selecting the type of roof drain to use, the roof construction and its thickness, along with the intended use of the roof, are required. Where the roof perimeter extends above the roof in such a manner that water is entrapped and causes ponding, or if any portion of the roof is designed so water can pond, secondary drainage is required. Where secondary drainage is required, scuppers, or a secondary system of roof drains and pipes, are installed to prevent the accumulation of excessive rainwater.
Chapter 12 Fuel Gas Piping.
Chapter 12 regulates the installation of gas piping in a building, structure or within the property lines of buildings up to 5 psi. Gas piping systems must supply the minimum volume of gas required by each gas appliance to perform their proper operation under working conditions without exceeding the maximum pressure specified by each manufacturer. Because of the hazards associated with fuel gas, it is important to ensure the gas system has been inspected and tested, and that it is safe to turn on the gas supply to the building.
Chapter 13 Health Care Facilities and Medical Gas and Medical Vacuum Systems.
Chapter 13 regulates the installation, inspection, testing, maintenance, performance, and safe practices for medical gas and vacuum systems located in health care facilities. This chapter addresses the installation and maintenance of health care fixtures, devices, and equipment. The purpose of medical gas and medical vacuum systems is to provide safe and sufficient flows at required pressures to the medical gas outlet or vacuum inlet terminals. System design and layout should allow convenient access by the medical staff to outlet and inlet terminals, valves, and equipment during patient care or emergencies, as safety is of primary concern.
Chapter 14 Firestop Protection.
Chapter 14 regulates piping penetrations of fire-resistance-rated walls, partitions, floors, floor and ceiling assemblies, roof and ceiling assemblies, or shaft enclosures through firestopping. To firestop is to create a physical barrier that impedes the spread of smoke, gases, and flames from one compartment in the building design to the next. The firestop is seen as a part that is essential to protecting the lives of people who live or work in the structure, increasing the chances of not succumbing to smoke or gases before they are able to evacuate the building. Fireproofing of this type helps to restore the fire-resistant properties of the building materials before the openings were created as part of the construction process.
Chapter 15 Alternate Water Sources for Nonpotable Applications.
Chapter 15 regulates gray water sources, reclaimed (recycled) water sources and on-site treated nonpotable water systems. Water sources include subsurface irrigation, subsoil irrigation, and mulch basin systems. Subsoil water irrigation provides a means to disperse shallow drip irrigation lines and mulch basins that collect and spread water in various applications. The
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FORMAT OF THE UNIFORM PLUMBING CODE
reclaimed water provisions to on-site nonpotable water systems include gray water and other nonpotable water sources that are used for on-site applications. Water reuse is integral to sustainable water management because it allows water to remain in the environment and be preserved for future use while meeting the water requirements of the present. Water reuse reduces energy use by removing added potable water treatment, offsetting water demands, and providing water for energy production.
CPC § 2025 High relevance — show source text
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FORMAT OF THE UNIFORM PLUMBING CODE
Chapter 10 Traps and Interceptors.
Chapter 10 regulates the material, design, and installation of traps, interceptors, and separators. Traps are required on drainage type plumbing fixtures and must be self-scouring without interior partitions. Interceptors, on the other hand, are designed to control what goes down a drain. Interceptors are used to keep harmful substances from entering the sanitary drainage system, such as grease, sand, oil and other materials. The retained materials need periodic removal to maintain efficiency and function of the separating device. The capacity of an interceptor is based on retention and flow rate. There are many types of interceptors that are used at beauty salons, hospitals, meat, fish or foul packaging, refineries, repair garages, gas stations, car washing facilities, various plants, factories, and processing sites. The designer of the building is responsible for locating interceptors with the expectation for the frequency of maintenance, ease of cleaning and floor space for equipment.
Chapter 11 Storm Drainage.
Chapter 11 regulates the removal of stormwater from roofs, yards, paved areas, and similar areas. The objective of storm drainage systems is to provide a conduit or channel through which runoff will be carried from a point of collection to a point of disposal; this protects the property and the public from the uncontrolled flow of runoff and ensures that drains and inlets are adequately sized to receive the volume of runoff that flows to the drains. For the purpose of system design, it’s necessary to specify the duration of a selected storm. All methods used to determine volumes and peak flow use historical data. Drain location must be coordinated with the architectural design of the building. When selecting the type of roof drain to use, the roof construction and its thickness, along with the intended use of the roof, are required. Where the roof perimeter extends above the roof in such a manner that water is entrapped and causes ponding, or if any portion of the roof is designed so water can pond, secondary drainage is required. Where secondary drainage is required, scuppers, or a secondary system of roof drains and pipes, are installed to prevent the accumulation of excessive rainwater.
Chapter 12 Fuel Gas Piping.
Chapter 12 regulates the installation of gas piping in a building, structure or within the property lines of buildings up to 5 psi. Gas piping systems must supply the minimum volume of gas required by each gas appliance to perform their proper operation under working conditions without exceeding the maximum pressure specified by each manufacturer. Because of the hazards associated with fuel gas, it is important to ensure the gas system has been inspected and tested, and that it is safe to turn on the gas supply to the building.
Chapter 13 Health Care Facilities and Medical Gas and Medical Vacuum Systems.
Chapter 13 regulates the installation, inspection, testing, maintenance, performance, and safe practices for medical gas and vacuum systems located in health care facilities. This chapter addresses the installation and maintenance of health care fixtures, devices, and equipment. The purpose of medical gas and medical vacuum systems is to provide safe and sufficient flows at required pressures to the medical gas outlet or vacuum inlet terminals. System design and layout should allow convenient access by the medical staff to outlet and inlet terminals, valves, and equipment during patient care or emergencies, as safety is of primary concern.
Chapter 14 Firestop Protection.
CPC § 1215.2 High relevance — show source text
Table 1215.2(30) Semi-Rigid Copper Tubing . . . . . .265
Table 1215.2(31) Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .266
Table 1215.2(32) Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .267
Table 1215.2(33) Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .268
Table 1215.2(34) Polyethylene Plastic Pipe . . . . . . .269
Table 1215.2(35) Polyethylene Plastic Pipe . . . . . . .270
Table 1215.2(36) Polyethylene Plastic Tubing . . . . .271
CHAPTER 13 HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND
MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL
VACUUM SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . .273
PART I General Requirements . . . . . . . .275
1301.0 General Requirements . . . . . . . . .275
1301.1 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .275
1301.2 Where Not Applicable . . . . . . . . . .275
1301.3 Conflict of Requirements . . . . . . .275
1301.4 Where Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . .275
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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
CPC § 1326.0 High relevance — show source text
(1) Warning systems shall be permitted to be a single alarm panel.
»
Part IV – Category 3 Piped Gas and Vacuum Systems.
1326.0 Category 3 Piped Gas and Vacuum Systems. 1326.1 General. Category 3 piped gas and vacuum systems shall be permitted when all of the following criteria are met:
(1) Only minimal sedation, as defined in Chapter 2; or no sedation is performed. Deep sedation, moderate sedation, and general anesthesia are not performed.
(2) The loss of the piped gas and vacuum systems is not likely to cause injury to patients, staff, or visitors, but can cause discomfort.
(3) The facility piped gas and vacuum systems are intended for Category 3 patient care rooms as defined in Chapter 2. [NFPA 99:5.3.1.2]
1326.2 Nature of Hazards of Gas and Vacuum Sys- tems. The requirement of Section 1307.2 shall apply to the nature of hazards of gas and vacuum systems. [NFPA 99:5.3.2]
1326.3 Medical Air Supply Systems. Category 3 central supply systems shall be permitted to consist of the following:
(1) Gas cylinder or cryogenic liquid container headers in accordance with NFPA 99.
(2) Oxygen concentrator supply units in accordance with NFPA 99.
(3) Cylinder manifolds for gas cylinders in accordance with NFPA 99.
(4) Manifolds for cryogenic liquid containers in accordance with NFPA 99.
(5) Cryogenic fluid central supply systems in accordance with NFPA 99.
(6) Medical air compressor systems in accordance with NFPA 99.
(7) Proportioning air systems in accordance with NFPA 99.
(8) Medical-surgical vacuum systems in accordance with of NFPA 99.
(9) Waste anesthetic gas disposal systems (WAGDs) in accordance with NFPA 99.
(10)Instrument air compressor systems in accordance with NFPA 99. {NFPA 99:5.3.3.5} 1326.4 Medical–Surgical Vacuum Systems. Category 3 systems shall comply with Section 1307.3 through Section 1309.13 and Section 1312.0 through Section 1313.5, except as follows:
(1) Medical–surgical vacuum systems shall be permitted to be simplex.
(2) The facility staff shall develop an emergency plan to deal with the loss of medical–surgical vacuum.
(3) Emergency electrical service shall conform to the requirements of Section 6.6 of NFPA 99 and NFPA 70.
[NFPA 99:5.3.3.7]
1326.5 Valves. Category 3 systems shall comply with Section 1314.0. [NFPA 99:5.3.4]
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HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL VACUUM SYSTEMS
(2) The alarm panel shall be located in an area of continuous surveillance while the facility is in operation.
(3) Pressure and vacuum switches/sensors shall be mounted at the source equipment with a pressure indicator at the master alarm panel.
CPC § 1101.4.6 High relevance — show source text
Subsoil drain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1101.4.6
Sumps or receiving tanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .710.8 Traps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1003.1 Vents (DWV) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Table 701.2, 903.0 MAY, DEFINITION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215.0
MEAT AND POULTRY
PROCESSING PLANTS . . . . . . . . . . . .601.5, 724.0, 1010.2
MEAT PACKING AND SLAUGHTERHOUSES . . . . .1010.0
MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL
VACUUM SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chapter 13
Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1324.4
Aspirators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1303.5 Category 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205.0 Category 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205.0 Category 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205.0 Category 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205.0 Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1318.2
Construction documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1304.3
Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215.0
Health Care Facilities (OSHPD) . . . . . . . . . . . .1304.1.1 Installation requirements . . . . . . . . . . . .1304.0, 1323.0
Joints and connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1320.0
Labeling and identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1323.13
Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1318.0
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 § 1215.2 High relevance — show source text
Table 1215.2(15) Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .251
Table 1215.2(16) Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .252
Table 1215.2(17) Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .253
Table 1215.2(18) Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .254
Table 1215.2(19) Polyethylene Plastic Pipe . . . . . . .255
Table 1215.2(20) Polyethylene Plastic Pipe . . . . . . .256
Table 1215.2(21) Polyethylene Plastic Pipe . . . . . . .257
Table 1215.2(22) Polyethylene Plastic Tubing . . . . .258
Table 1215.2(23) Polyethylene Plastic Tubing . . . . .258
Table 1215.2(24) Schedule 40 Metallic Pipe . . . . . .259
Table 1215.2(25) Schedule 40 Metallic Pipe . . . . . .260
Table 1215.2(26) Schedule 40 Metallic Pipe . . . . . .261
Table 1215.2(27) Schedule 40 Metallic Pipe . . . . . .262
Table 1215.2(28) Semi-Rigid Copper Tubing . . . . . .263
Table 1215.2(29) Semi-Rigid Copper Tubing . . . . . .264
Table 1215.2(30) Semi-Rigid Copper Tubing . . . . . .265
Table 1215.2(31) Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .266
Table 1215.2(32) Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .267
Table 1215.2(33) Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .268
Table 1215.2(34) Polyethylene Plastic Pipe . . . . . . .269
Table 1215.2(35) Polyethylene Plastic Pipe . . . . . . .270
Table 1215.2(36) Polyethylene Plastic Tubing . . . . .271
CHAPTER 13 HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND
MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL
VACUUM SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . .273
PART I General Requirements . . . . . . . .275
1301.0 General Requirements . . . . . . . . .275
1301.1 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .275
1301.2 Where Not Applicable . . . . . . . . . .275
1301.3 Conflict of Requirements . . . . . . .275
1301.4 Where Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . .275
xl 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
CPC § 1318.0 Medium relevance — show source text
1318.0 Piping Materials for Field-Installed Positive Pressure Medical Gas Systems. 1318.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to field-installed piping for the distribution of medical gas systems. 1318.2 Cleaning. Tubes, valves, fittings, station outlets, and other piping components in medical gas systems shall have been cleaned for oxygen service by the manufacturer prior to installation in accordance with the mandatory requirements of CGA G-4.1, except that fittings shall be permitted to be cleaned by a supplier or agency other than the manufacturer.
[NFPA 99:5.1.10.1.1]
Where tube ends, fittings or other components become contaminated before installation they shall be recleaned in accordance with Section 1321.8.7 and Section 1321.8.8.
1318.3 Delivery. Each length of tube shall be delivered plugged or capped by the manufacturer and kept sealed until prepared for installation. Fittings, valves, and other components shall be delivered sealed and labeled and kept sealed until prepared for installation. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.1.2, 5.1.10.1.3] 1318.4 Tubes for Medical Gas Systems. Tubes shall be hard-drawn seamless copper in accordance with ASTM B819, medical gas tube, Type L, except Type K shall be used where operating pressures are above a gauge pressure of 185 psi (1276 kPa) and the pipe sizes are larger than DN80 [(NPS 3) (3 [1] / 8 inches O.D.)]. {NFPA 99:5.1.10.1.4} 1318.5 Manufacturer Markings. ASTM B819, medical gas tube shall be identified by the manufacturer’s markings “OXY,” “MED,” “OXY/MED,” “OXY/ACR,” or “ACR/MED” in blue (Type L) or green (Type K). [NFPA 99:5.1.10.1.7]
1318.6 Documentation. The installer shall furnish documentation certifying that all installed piping materials comply with the requirements of Section 1318.2. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.1.8]
1319.0 Piping Materials for Field-Installed Medical- Surgical Vacuum Systems. 1319.1 Tubes for Medical Vacuum Systems. Piping for vacuum systems shall be constructed of any of the following:
(1) Hard-drawn seamless copper tube in accordance with the following:
(a) ASTM B88, copper tube (Type K, Type L, or Type M)
(b) ASTM B280, copper ACR tube
(c) ASTM B819, copper medical gas tubing (Type K or Type L)
(2) Stainless steel tube in accordance with the following:
(a) ASTM A269 TP304L or 316L
(b) ASTM A312 TP304L or 316L
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 285
), 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
(c) ASTM A312 TP 304L/316L, Schedule 5S pipe, and ASTM A403 WP304L/316L, Schedule 5S fittings {NFPA 99:5.1.10.2.1}
CPC § 1323.7.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1323.7.1 Medical Gas and Medical Vacuum. Medical gas and vacuum systems with the same contents shall be permitted to be interconnected with an inline valve installed between the systems. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.7.2] 1323.7.2 Leak Testing. Leak testing shall be accomplished by separately charging and testing each individual piping system. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.7.3]
1323.8 Manufacturer’s Instructions. The installation of individual components shall be made in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer. Manufacturer’s instructions shall include directions and information deemed by the manufacturer to be adequate for attaining proper operation, testing, and maintenance of the medical gas and vacuum systems. Copies of the manufacturer’s instructions shall be left with the system owner. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.8.1 – 5.1.10.11.8.3] 1323.9 Changes in System Use. Where a positive-pressure medical gas piping distribution system originally used or constructed for use at one pressure and for one gas is converted for operation at another pressure or for another gas, all provisions of Section 1318.0 through Section 1323.12 shall apply as if the system were new. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.9.1] 1323.9.1 Medical Vacuum System. A vacuum system shall not be permitted to be converted for use as a gas system. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.9.2]
1323.10 Qualifications of Installers. The installation of medical gas and vacuum systems shall be made by qualified, competent technicians who are experienced in performing such installations, including all personnel who actually install the piping system. Installers of medical gas and vacuum piped distribution systems, all appurtenant piping supporting pump and compressor source systems, and appurtenant piping supporting source gas manifold systems not including permanently installed bulk source systems, shall be certified in accordance with ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 6010. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.10.1, 5.1.10.11.10.2]
1323.10.1 Brazing. Brazing shall be performed by individuals who are qualified in accordance with Section 1323.11. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.10.5]
1323.10.2 Documentation. Prior to any installation work, the installer of medical gas and vacuum piping shall provide and maintain documentation on the job site
294 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
for the qualification of brazing procedures and individual brazers that is required under Section 1323.11. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.10.6]
1323.10.3 Health Care Organization Personnel. Health care organization personnel shall be permitted to install piping systems if all of the requirements of Section 1323.10 are met during the installation. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.11.10.7]
CPC § 10-3 Medium relevance — show source text
1003 Building Elements and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
1004 Fire Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
1005 Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
1006 Structural. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
1007 Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
1008 Mechanical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
1009 Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
1010 Other Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
1011 Change of Occupancy Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
CHAPTER 11 ADDITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-3
1101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
1102 Heights and Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
1103 Structural. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4
1104 Energy Conservation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4
CHAPTER 12 HISTORIC BUILDINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-1
xviii 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CHAPTER 13 PERFORMANCE COMPLIANCE METHODS. . 13-3
1301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3
1302 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3
1303 Acceptance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
Frequently asked questions
When does Chapter 13 apply to a small dental office that uses only cylinders at each chair?
If the office uses portable compressed cylinders or non‑piped arrangements that match the exclusions in § 1301.2, Chapter 13 generally does not apply to those cylinder management/portable systems; if a central piped distribution is installed (source to station outlets), Chapter 13 applies. § 1301.1, § 1301.2.
Does Chapter 13 cover electrical wiring for gas‑system compressors or motors?
No — electrical connections and motor requirements are listed as exclusions in § 1301.2 and are handled by the Electrical/Mechanical codes and NFPA where applicable. § 1301.2.
Are Category 4 systems covered by Chapter 13?
Chapter 13 explicitly addresses Categories 1–3 for piping from central supply to station outlets per § 1301.1. For Category 4 (higher risk) or portions beyond Chapter 13 scope, the code directs you to NFPA 99. § 1301.1, § 1301.3.
If a hospital is regulated by OSHPD, does Chapter 13 still apply?
Yes, but OSHPD‑regulated facilities have additional cross‑references and must comply with NFPA 99 as adopted/required by OSHPD; see § 1304.1.1 for OSHPD references.
What if Chapter 13 is silent about a specific component?
If Chapter 13 does not address a portion of the medical gas/vacuum system, the code instructs you to refer to NFPA 99. § 1301.3.
More in California Plumbing Code
- Administration
- Definitions
- General Regulations
- Plumbing Fixtures and Fixture Fittings
- Water Heaters
- Water Supply and Distribution
- Sanitary Drainage (Drain, Waste, and Vent)
- Indirect Wastes
- Vents
- Traps and Interceptors
- Storm Drainage
- Fuel Gas Piping
- Health Care Facilities — Medical Gas and Medical Vacuum Systems
- Alternate Water Sources and Nonpotable Rainwater Catchment Systems
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Required operating pressures and standard designation colors for medical gases and vacuum
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California Plumbing Code