Gas Compliance Audit: What Inspectors Look For
When it comes to medical gas pipeline systems, gas compliance audit isn’t just paperwork—it’s a matter of patient care and safety. Regular gas safety audit checklists are essential to ensure systems are functioning as intended, meet strict HTM 02-01 standards, and comply with the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. These inspections also help confirm whether systems are maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions and legally required practices. Inspectors visit healthcare facilities to assess whether gas piping, gas appliances, and infrastructure are correctly installed, maintained, and documented.
These reviews play a crucial role in identifying risks like carbon monoxide leaks or outdated gas equipment before they become serious issues.
For estate teams and clinical engineers, a gas safety audit checklist can feel daunting—but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation and knowledge of what gas inspectors are looking for, the process can run smoothly and reinforce confidence in your infrastructure. Understanding the key focus areas can also help avoid delays, disruptions or the dreaded non-compliance notice.
What Do Inspectors Look For Conducting Gas Safety Audit Checklist?
Medical gas compliance audits are thorough and structured, and inspectors will review both the physical system and the associated gas safety records. All medical gas systems must comply with the legal standards outlined in the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, which govern safe installation and operation. Here are some of the key areas they focus on:
System Integrity and Condition
Inspectors will check the physical state of your gas piping and infrastructure, looking for signs of corrosion, poor insulation, unsecured pipework or outdated components that may affect safety and performance.
Alarm and Monitoring Systems
Functional alarms must be in place and properly tested. Systems should be calibrated and linked to relevant departments, such as ICU or plant rooms, to ensure the safety of medical staff and patients.
Up-to-Date Documentation
Inspection teams expect to see gas safety certificates, maintenance records, system validation reports, testing logs, permits to work, and clear schematics of your medical gas pipeline systems.
Labelling and Identification
All pipework, terminal units and valves must be clearly labelled according to HTM 02-01. Inspectors will also check if all appliances and flues are identified and traceable in the documentation.
Compliance with HTM 02-01 Standards
The installation, modification and maintenance of systems must follow HTM 02-01 and broader gas safety installation rules. Auditors will cross-check that all work complies with regulations 1998 and relevant safety codes.
Staff Training and Authorised Persons
The competence of your team matters. Inspectors may review training records and ensure that Gas Safe registered engineers, Authorised Persons, and Competent Persons have the right credentials and are listed on the Gas Safe Register.
How to Prepare and Avoid Common Pitfalls during a Medical Gas Inspection
Proactive preparation can make all the difference. Start with an internal gas safety check to identify gaps and correct them before the official medical gas inspection. Keeping your maintenance schedule up to date and your records easily accessible will save time and reduce stress on the day. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Incomplete or outdated records: Ensure gas safety records are current, signed, and include all required test results and certifications, such as a valid gas safety certificate and, where applicable, an energy performance certificate.
- Neglected alarm testing: Alarms should be tested regularly, with results logged and any faults immediately addressed to ensure the safety of all system users.
- Poor labelling: Replacing missing or unclear labels is a quick fix that can prevent an easy fail and helps ensure all gas appliances are identifiable.
- Lack of trained personnel on-site: Make sure your AP or CP is available to answer inspector questions and that any gas-safe registered engineer involved in system servicing is documented.
- No evidence of system validation: Any changes to your medical gas pipelines must be validated with documented test results in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.
At Midland Medical Services, we help healthcare providers prepare for gas compliance audits with confidence. From full system checks and gas safety check documentation reviews to providing ongoing support for maintenance and staff training, our expert team ensures you’re always ready to meet inspection standards with high quality and peace of mind.