MONTHLY INSPECTION

Routine chamber inspections are conducted to clarify proper chamber maintenance procedures and affect safe operation of all equipment utilized during HBO therapy and to ensure the safety of the environment in the hyperbaric medicine facility. 

All equipment utilized by the hyperbaric medicine facility is maintained through a program of regular preventative maintenance. The manufacturer during the regularly scheduled service contract maintains the hyperbaric chambers. Biomedical and other life sensitive equipment is serviced and maintained by the Hospital's Biomedical Engineering Department and are cleaned in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer.

All new equipment is examined and approved by the Hyperbaric Medicine Service Program Director or Nurse Manager and evaluated in accordance with the  institutional Biomedical Engineering policy before being placed into service. 

Each month inspections should be conducted.  Specifically, the Monthly Preventive Maintenance and the Monthly Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus - SCBA (Respirator) Maintenance inspections.

Chamber

1. Inspect the chamber door seals. If deterioration is seen, remove and inspect further for any signs of cracks, defect or degradation. 
2. To preserve door seals apply a light coating of either corn starch or an oxygen compatible lubricant (christo-lube) at the start of each month or as needed.  
3. Prior to replacing the door seals, the door seals groove should be cleaned with a damp cloth.  Particular care should be taken when replacing the door seals, as not to cause damage to the seal. Clean out the seal groove and clean the seal with a damp cloth. Be careful not to stretch the seal by pulling.  Follow manufacturer recommendations for maintaining chamber door seals.
4. Clean the chamber rails with a damp cloth or with manufactured approved cleaner. 
5. Examine the internal and external acrylic for scratches, crazing or any defects.  Clean and polish the internal and external acrylic using appropriate grades of Novus polish. 
6. Confirm proper function of the Emergency vent system
7. Perform ground continuity verification with multimeter 
8. Perform and document the Rate Verification tests according to manufacturer recommendations.
9. Record cycle count for the chamber and document the corresponding Monthly Preventative Maintenance form.

Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus - SCBA (Respirator)

1. Check the H-cylinder pressure is greater than 1500 psig, the regulator is set at 70–90 psig, the cylinder is chained to the wall, hose connections do not leak, and the stem valve is closed.
2. Check  the 10-minute cylinder pressure is greater than 2000 psig, the cylinder condition is good, the hydrostatic test date is checked, hose connections are tight, and the carry harness is intact.
3. Confirm the regulator connects to masks, functions correctly, the bypass function operates properly, and the regulator is stored in the harness.
4. Check the harness for wear and verify the buckle functions properly.
5. Verify the facepiece lens is not cracked or loose, the facemask is not distorted, there is no cracking, tears, or holes, the mask is clean and sanitary, the inlet valve functions, the outlet valve functions, the straps are in good condition, the buckles are in working condition, and the mask is stored neatly in a labeled bag.
6. Record the name of the person completing the Monthly Respirator (SCBA) Inspection.