Academy of Architecture for Health

The Health Care Facilities Code (NFPA 99) includes multiple requirements for the locations of zone valve boxes.  There should be some kind of intervening wall between the valve box and the outlets it serves, they should be readily operable from the standing position, and installed where they are visible and accessible at all times. Additionally, they should not be installed behind doors (either open or closed) which would prevent them from being seen or located in closed or locked rooms, closets or areas. The intent is for someone to quickly disconnect the medical gas between the supply and the outlet in an emergency situation.  The difficulty with their placement is typically a result of the various needs for each space and the remaining wall space, specifically for surgical suites.  The combination of the need for immediate access to scrub sinks, stretcher alcoves and large doors for operating rooms leaves little wall space for the zone valve boxes.  Careful consideration and planning should be taken into account when locating the zone valve boxes in all locations.

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