Veterinary clinics play a central role in keeping pets healthy. In addition to typical medical tools like stethoscopes and scales, veterinarians use a range of medical-grade gases to perform procedures and manage pet emergencies. Gases can relax animals during treatments or help them breathe more easily. Understanding the gases used in veterinary care and procedures helps vets provide the best quality care to their animal patients.

What Gases Do Vets Use?

Veterinarians use oxygen, nitrous oxide and anesthesia gases. Animals are often stressed or scared when they’re ill and in unfamiliar places, like the vet clinic. Veterinarians will use gases to make diagnosing and surgical procedures easier and more comfortable.

Each gas has a specific purpose. For example, the role of helium in medical procedures is cryogenic, and it’s used as a support gas. Helium traditionally cools down equipment like MRI machines, which detect abnormalities in animals’ bodies. Anesthesia agents, like isoflurane, keep pets unconscious during a procedure.

Oxygen Administration in Animal Hospitals and Their Services

Oxygen is a common gas used in veterinary medicine. When stressed or dealing with medical emergencies, animals can struggle to breathe properly. They might even enter respiratory failure. Oxygen therapy in medical treatment is common. Vets employ different tools to deliver oxygen into the pet’s body and help their organs work properly.

Veterinarians administer oxygen using different methods depending on the patient’s condition. Oxygen cannulas, masks, oxygen cages and ventilators are all effective. If an animal is suffering from shock or heart failure, it’s critical to get oxygen into its system to avoid complications.

Vet practices need a constant oxygen supply in clinics and hospitals. Cylinders or bulk storage tanks hold compressed oxygen. Every facility must regulate oxygen storage and flow to ensure safe use during medical procedures. If there is an emergency or a system failure, backup systems will help protect animals during care.

The Use of Nitrous Oxide in Veterinary Offices

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is another gas used in vet work. It acts as a mild anesthetic and analgesic. Nitrous oxide helps suppress pain, reduce anxiety and induce relaxation during minor procedures. When used with oxygen or anesthesia gases, it’s an effective sedative for animals undergoing dental work, imaging or surgical preparation.

While nitrous oxide helps relax patients during appointments, it must be handled carefully. Nitrous oxide can displace oxygen in the air, leading to health risks for people and animals. Vet clinics should support their nitrous oxide use with gas removal and leak detection systems.

Anesthesia Gases for Veterinary Procedures

Anesthesia gases are a category of gases used to induce and keep animals unconscious during vet procedures. They also help manage pain and keep patients’ airways open during surgery. When patients inhale anesthesia, it enters their bloodstream from the lungs and travels to the brain, affecting neurotransmitters and nerves.

Common anesthesia gases include:

Isoflurane
Sevoflurane
Nitrous oxide
Halothane

Technicians administer gases through a mask, chamber or endotracheal tube, depending on the animal and their condition. Each patient receives their dose based on health, size and species.

Helium is a common supporting gas in anesthesia. Vets can use a helium-oxygen mixture called heliox to help with respiratory issues. Heliox is used in respiratory therapy to assist animals with airway obstructions or severe respiratory distress. Because helium is less dense than air, heliox can flow more easily through narrowed airways, requiring less effort from the patient.

Ensuring Safety: Gas Storage and Management

While gases are integral to supporting veterinary procedures, they need proper handling. Offices must invest in safe gas storage and management to keep their practices safe.

Anesthesia machines, vaporizers and scavenging systems administer and control gas levels without harming staff. This equipment uses pressure gauges, alarms and flowmeters to maintain delivery levels. If there is a malfunction, sensors should detect it and trigger alarms and safety measures. Investing in the right equipment will help protect your team as they work.

Maintenance is also critical for gas safety. Gas delivery and anesthesia machines must be maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Make sure your team is performing:

Routine inspections.
Leak testing.
Manufacturer-approved use protocols.
Cleanings as needed.
Calibration.

Contact a Meritus Gas team expert to learn more about proper gas storage and management.

Best Practices for Storing Medical Gases

Use industry-approved medical gas storage, such as tanks and cylinders with secure valve caps. Source your gases from vendors with traceable gas products to avoid impure mixes. Cylinders should always be stored securely and upright to prevent tipping. Make sure all your gases are organized by type to prevent safety hazards or gas mix-ups.

Additionally, your storage areas need clear labeling. To protect workers, post signage indicating the presence of pressurized medical gases. Double-check your storage and signage with local fire codes and safety regulations. 

Preventive Safety Measures

Veterinary offices should have written protocols for all gas-related measures. Outline protocols for cylinder transport, gas handling, leak detection and emergency response. Your staff needs thorough training in identifying hazards, wearing protective equipment and connecting regulators. If procedures are not followed, implement follow-up training. The better your staff training, the more prepared they’ll be to handle hazardous situations.

Vet practices must have emergency preparedness plans in place for unexpected events. Equipment failure and power outages can happen suddenly, risking everyone’s safety. Make sure your office:

Has backup cylinders.
Properly labels gas reserves.
Trains staff on manual operations. 
Has emergency support for its gas supply.

A reliable gas partner can provide you with support. Work with your gas supplier to outline emergency plans and create tailored backup stock. They’ll help you plan contingencies and assess risks so you have an uninterrupted gas supply — even during emergencies.

The Importance of Gas Supply and Management in Veterinary Care

Veterinarians depend on a reliable gas supply and management to provide patients with the necessary care. Oxygen, anesthesia and other medical-grade gases must be available on demand. A disruption in gas availability or quality can compromise an animal’s care. Vet offices must work with trusted sources for high-quality, reliable gas supplies. Choose a provider with traceable gases and a reputation for fast delivery. You need a partner that can support you in providing uninterrupted, high-quality care.

Choose Meritus Gas Partners for Reliable Medical Gas Solutions

Veterinary clinics must have access to a constant supply of quality gases. With Meritus Gas Partners, medical centers can access essential gases and specialty mixtures. We offer a range of high-purity medical gases backed by years of expertise and fast service. Our medical gases meet United States Pharmacopeia and National Formulary standards for safety and quality.

With Meritus Gas Partners’ nationwide network, you can easily find the supply you need. We offer personalized support, on-time deliveries and a deep knowledge of the industry’s gas requirements. Contact us to explore our gas options and get services tailored to your veterinary practice.

Medical gases are vital for various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, from powering medical devices to providing anesthesia and breathing support. Storing and handling these gases properly is crucial for minimizing the risks of accidents, injuries and property damage.

Medical gases are stored under high pressure, making them at risk for fire or explosions if not handled appropriately. Some medical gases are toxic, and most canisters are extremely heavy, adding extra risk to incorrect storage and handling.

Due to these potential hazards, healthcare and medical facilities must follow strict medical gas storage standards and safety recommendations. Learn more about gas storage and accessibility considerations in health care facilities below.

Common Hazards of Medical Gas Cylinder Storage

Storing and handling medical gases correctly is key to creating a safer environment. Appropriate processes minimize the risks and hazards that can occur from improper actions. Common but dangerous hazards include: 

Fire hazards: Many medical gases are nonflammable, but other gases are, like ethylene oxide, which is used for sterilization. Oxygen, a common and necessary gas in medicine, is nonflammable but supports combustion. Should oxygen leak, it contributes to a fire hazard.
Physical risks: Gas cylinders are under high pressure, and storing or handling them incorrectly can cause them to rupture or explode. Cylinders are also extremely heavy. If a cylinder ruptures or falls over, it can create serious safety issues.
Asphyxiation and health hazards: Inert gases can displace oxygen if they leak, which can lead to asphyxia. Other medical gases are toxic. Exposure to carbon monoxide, a gas used as an anti-inflammatory agent, can cause death. 

Regulations and Compliance in Medical Gas Storage

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) both publish regulations for compliance in medical gas storage.

OSHA Requirements for Medical Gases

The OSHA requirements for storing, using and handling compressed medical gases include the following:

1910.101(a): Cylinders must be inspected visually to determine they are in a safe condition. 
1910.101(b): Compressed gases must be handled, stored and used in accordance with Compressed Gas Association requirements.
1910.101(c): Compressed gas cylinders must have pressure relief devices installed. These devices must be installed and maintained in accordance with guidelines published by the Compressed Gas Association (29 CFR 1910.101(b) and Pamphlet P-1-1965).

Additionally, in regard to surgical suite compressed gases, OSHA states that all cylinders must be in an upright position — whether empty or full — and cylinders must be secured so they do not drop or strike any objects with force. When transporting medical gases, the cylinders must be secured with protective caps and should never be rolled or dragged.  

NFPA Standards

NFPA 99, also referred to as the “Health Care Facilities Code,” is a detailed outline of standards created by the NFPA to minimize the risk of fires, explosions and other related hazards in medical settings. Part of the guidelines and standards focuses specifically on carefully storing and using medical gases.

Some of the basic recommendations outlined in NFPA 99 for health care facilities include:

Clearly labeling and color coding piping systems. 
Storing gases in designated, well-ventilated areas. 
Separating gases accordingly to prevent cross-contamination or other potential hazards. 
Ensuring regular inspections, maintenance and staff training and education.

The NFPA also has requirements to ensure health care facilities adhere to fire codes.

Contact An Expert

Best Practices for the Safe Handling and Storage of Medical Gases

These practices can help medical professionals avoid common mistakes when handling and storing medical gas cylinders.

1. Label Gas Cylinders for Identification

Gas canisters, valves, station inlets and outlets, distribution piping, alarm panels, and source equipment should be color-coded and labeled appropriately. There should be a wraparound label on all canisters that identify the gas and other key properties.

The name of the gas must be written in lettering that is at least 2 inches high and be either in white against the proper designated color or written in the correct designated color. The label should clearly indicate the gas is “for medical use.” Other components, like valves, should also be clearly labeled. 

The color codes for medical gases are as follows:

Medical air: Yellow
Carbon dioxide: Gray
Helium: Brown
Nitrogen: Black
Nitrous oxide: Blue
Oxygen: Green
Mixture or blend: Corresponding colors for each gas component in the mixture

2. Store Gas Cylinders Safely and Accessibly

Following medical gas storage standards are crucial for creating a safer environment. Some of the best practices to follow for storing medical gases include: 

Implementing fire-resistant enclosures for cylinder storage and supply systems.
Separating oxidizing gases — storing inert (nonflammable) gases in the enclosures is permissible. 
Ensuring enclosures have the correct vents. 
Installing proper gas monitoring systems and smoke detectors. 

Keep in mind that although they should be enclosed, gases must still be accessible, especially in emergency situations. 

3. Train Staff on Safety Requirements for Gas Cylinders

Training for risk management in health care facilities typically includes education on proper gas cylinder labeling and storage. All medical personnel working with or around gases should receive training and regular refresher courses in handling medical equipment and supply systems correctly.

Staff should also be trained on how to use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and eye protection, and how to properly inspect and maintain cylinders. Personnel must also be trained in emergency protocol in the event of a gas leak, fire or other hazard.

Get in touch with a Meritus Gas team expert to learn more about finding the right PPE and safety equipment for your team.

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4. Implement Gas Monitoring

One of the most vital elements of storing gases is having reliable and well-maintained gas monitoring and leak detection systems, as well as smoke alarms. There are various types of gas sensors and systems available. Multigas sensors are an effective choice as they can detect a range of gases, including combustible gases and other common medical gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Explore Medical Gas Solutions With Meritus Gas Partners

Following approved methods and safety regulations for storing and handling medical gas is essential for all medical facilities. Regulations and protocols for handling medical gas are in place to help keep staff, patients, visitors and property more secure. 

At Meritus Gas, our partners are reliable and trusted distributors in the industry you can turn to for your medical gas supplies and solutions. Our partners provide quality gas that helps you streamline operations and maintain compliance with government regulations. Our partners also provide PPE and other safety equipment that equips staff to handle and store gas.

To get started, visit one of our branches or contact us for any additional information.

Essential Gases for Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy refers to the therapeutic application of extreme cold, and it has gained widespread recognition for its effectiveness in treating various medical conditions and promoting overall well-being. The key to successful cryotherapy lies in using the appropriate cryogenic gas.

Understanding Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy involves using sub-zero temperatures to freeze and eliminate damaged or diseased tissues. It is widely used in medical treatments such as cryosurgery for cancer, including cervical, prostate and liver cancer, and in therapeutic settings for skin conditions like warts or skin tags. The versatility of cryotherapy makes it a preferred solution for healthcare providers treating both external and internal conditions.

Gases Used in Cryotherapy

The choice of gas for cryotherapy depends on the specific application and desired temperature. Here are some of the most frequently used gases. 

Nitrogen

Liquid nitrogen is one of the most commonly used gases in cryotherapy, thanks to its ability to reach extremely low temperatures. It is ideal for treating external skin issues and internal tumors through cryoablation. Nitrogen gas is inert, non-flammable and odorless, making it safe for various applications.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is vital in cryosurgery, especially in treating warts, skin cancers and cervical conditions. It creates a freezing effect by expanding through a cryosurgical probe, effectively destroying abnormal cells with minimal impact on surrounding tissue.

Liquid CO2

Liquid carbon dioxide is also used in cryotherapy, particularly when a less hazardous option is preferred over nitrous oxide. It offers increased safety in medical environments, although its lower cooling capacity may require longer treatment times.

Benefits of Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy promotes faster healing by destroying damaged cells and stimulating new, healthy tissue growth. It is often used for cosmetic reasons, such as removing skin lesions, in addition to treating medical conditions. Athletes also frequently turn to cryotherapy for muscle recovery. Cold temperatures reduce inflammation, ease muscle soreness and promote faster recovery times.

Cryotherapy Side Effects

While it is generally safe, cryotherapy can cause mild side effects like redness, blistering and soreness in the treated areas. These effects are usually short-lived, but patients should consult their healthcare providers if discomfort persists or signs of an infection, such as pus, are present.

Where to Purchase Cryotherapy Gases

When purchasing cryotherapy gases, it is essential to choose a reliable supplier with expertise in handling these specialized gases. Meritus Gas Partners is a trusted provider of cryotherapy gases, including nitrogen, nitrous oxide and liquid CO2. 

Choose Meritus Gas Partners for the Right Cryotherapy Gases

Selecting the appropriate cryogenic gas is vital for ensuring the effectiveness and safety of cryotherapy treatments. Meritus Gas Partners offers high-purity and quality cryotherapy gases to meet the stringent requirements of medical and therapeutic applications. 

We offer reliable and timely delivery to your location, and our team provides valuable advice on selecting the gas that best suits your specific needs. Contact one of our trusted partners today to find the best solution for your cryotherapy practice.

Medical gases are indispensable in healthcare. There are numerous uses for medical gases, especially for respiratory support, anesthesia and diagnostic procedures. Healthcare professionals and facility owners must understand the properties of these medical gases, their administration methods and safety considerations to help protect patients, providers and hospitals.

What are the different types of gases used in hospitals and other healthcare facilities? This article will be your comprehensive guide on the fundamental concepts of medical gases. From the life-sustaining properties of oxygen to the analgesic effects of nitrous oxide, each gas contributes to patient care — in one way, shape or form.

7 Common Medical Gases and Their Uses

Let’s explore the seven commonly used gases in healthcare, their unique applications and safety considerations.

1. Oxygen

Oxygen has numerous life-saving applications in healthcare. It’s crucial in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, emergency rooms and ambulances.

Oxygen is a vital medical gas for patients with respiratory insufficiency or hypoxia. Air and oxygen in medical gas systems also help keep patients alive during surgeries and after major traumas. Additionally, oxygen therapy is used to help improve oxygen levels in the blood and alleviate breathing difficulties.

Medical oxygen can be delivered through a nasal cannula, face masks or ventilators. The delivery method depends on the patient’s condition and the required oxygen concentration. For example, nasal cannulas are commonly used for low-flow oxygen, while masks are suitable for higher concentrations.

While oxygen is essential for life, it should be handled with care. Measures should be taken to prevent combustion, as oxygen supports combustion and can enhance the intensity of fires. Facilities must follow strict safety protocols for storing, handling and administering medical oxygen.

Moreover, the key to medical-grade oxygen is high purity. If it’s contaminated with other gases, it may pose risks to patients. Healthcare facilities must partner with a supplier that can provide high-purity oxygen for their patient’s well-being.

2. Nitrogen 

Nitrogen, a colorless and odorless gas, has various applications in healthcare settings. While it is not typically used on patients, it has multiple uses for medical equipment and support processes.

For instance, nitrogen is commonly used to power pneumatic systems in medical devices. Think of surgical tools and equipment used in diagnostic procedures. Additionally, cryogenic nitrogen can preserve blood samples and other cells for lab examination.

The inert nature of nitrogen makes it suitable for applications where non-reactive gas is needed to avoid chemical reactions. Nitrogen is also used to preserve and pressurize medical gas systems. It can help maintain pressure in storage cylinders to prevent the ingress of contaminants. As a result, it can help stabilize other medical gases, such as oxygen and nitrous oxide.

While nitrogen is inert and non-reactive, it is crucial to handle it with care to prevent asphyxiation in confined spaces. Healthcare facilities must adhere to safety protocols to store, handle and transport nitrogen cylinders.

3. Medical Air

Medical air is a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen, with the oxygen content adjusted to meet therapeutic needs. It is used for various medical purposes, such as providing respiratory support to patients with breathing difficulties.

Medical air is often employed in mechanical ventilation to assist patients with respiratory failure. It can be blended with other gases to reach specific oxygen concentrations. The controlled delivery of medical air helps maintain adequate oxygen levels in the patient’s bloodstream.

Furthermore, medical air is commonly humidified before its administration. This is to prevent the drying of the respiratory mucosa. Humidification is crucial for patients receiving prolonged respiratory support to enhance comfort and minimize potential complications.

4. Carbon Dioxide

Carbon dioxide can be used for insufflation in medical procedures but is especially crucial in respiratory care. End-tidal carbon dioxide monitoring is a non-invasive method used to assess a patient’s ventilatory status. It measures the concentration of carbon dioxide at the end of expiration. This measurement provides valuable information about ventilation and perfusion.

In addition to monitoring, carbon dioxide is used in respiratory therapies. For example, administering a controlled mixture of oxygen and carbon dioxide (carbogen) has been explored for specific medical conditions. Carbon dioxide levels are carefully regulated to gain therapeutic effects without adverse consequences.

While carbon dioxide itself is not typically administered as a therapeutic gas, monitoring its levels is crucial for patient safety. Proper calibration and maintenance of monitoring equipment and adherence to safety guidelines will help provide practitioners with accurate and reliable readings.

5. Helium

Helium is a noble gas known for its low density, making it useful in respiratory therapy. The combination of helium and oxygen (heliox) reduces the density of the gas mixture. This reduction in density makes airflow more efficient in cases of upper airway obstruction or severe respiratory conditions.

Heliox mixtures are especially useful to help treat conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and certain upper airway obstructions.

The use of helium gas in healthcare is generally considered safe. However, facilities using heliox mixtures must adhere to safety guidelines. Proper equipment calibration and staff training are essential to ensure the accurate delivery of heliox therapy.

6. Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is a colorless and odorless gas with anesthetic properties. Medical nitrous oxide is commonly used in dental procedures and minor surgical interventions. It induces a state of relaxation and reduces pain perception in patients.

The gas is administered through a mask or nasal hood. This administration methods help with precise concentration control.

While nitrous oxide is generally considered safe, proper ventilation is essential to prevent excessive exposure. Facilities using nitrous oxide must have scavenging systems to capture and remove excess gas. Healthcare facilities must continuously monitor and adhere to the recommended exposure limits to create a safe clinical environment.

7. Nitric Oxide

Nitric oxide is a gas with vasodilatory properties, particularly in the pulmonary circulation. It is used to treat conditions such as persistent pulmonary hypertension in newborns and acute respiratory distress syndrome by improving blood flow in the lungs.

Nitric oxide therapy requires careful monitoring of gas concentrations to prevent toxicity in the body. Facilities must have monitoring systems in place and healthcare providers should be trained to recognize and manage potential adverse effects.

Medical Gas Regulations and Standards

Gas storage and distribution are just as important as understanding the different types of medical gases — they’re a critical aspect of healthcare infrastructure.

For instance, gas cylinders are commonly used for storage and their handling must adhere to specific safety protocols. Facilities often use pipelines for a continuous and efficient medical gas supply to various points of use within healthcare settings.

Ensure your facility adheres to the regulations outlined in 29 CFR 1910.101(b) and Compressed Gas Association’s Pamphlet P-1-1965. For comprehensive safety measures regarding medical gas storage and distribution, familiarize yourself with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) standards:

29 CFR 1910.101 for compressed gases. 
29 CFR 1910.103 for hydrogen. 
29 CFR 1910.104 for oxygen. 
29 CFR 1910.105 for nitrous oxide. 

Additional resources include OSHA’s Compressed Gas and Equipment page and the NFPA 99 Health Care Facilities Code.

Meritus Gas Partners Is Your Trusted Medical Gas Solution Provider

Healthcare professionals can rely on Meritus Gas Partners for high-quality medical gases from our trusted suppliers. Our network features reputable partners like Atlas Welding and Ozarc Gas, so you’ll know you’ll receive a seamless supply of medical gases that meet the highest industry standards.

Contact us to learn more about how we can help your healthcare facility’s medical gas needs.

For more than 60 years, dentists and dental practices have relied on Atlas Welding Supply as a trusted supplier of medical gases, mixtures, and equipment. We take care of dentists’ gas and equipment needs so that taking care of their patients can be their top priority.

Dentists Can Rely on Atlas Welding Supply for …

High-Quality Medical Gas

Atlas supplies dentists with high-quality medical gas, specifically nitrous oxide, that they need to do their job. Nitrous oxide is a sedative and analgesic colorless, odorless gas that is primarily used for medical procedures, such as anesthesia and to alleviate anxiousness during dental procedures. Nitrous oxide is produced by the reaction of hydrochloric acid with ammonium salt, such as ammonium nitrate under controlled temperatures and pressures. While it is highly flammable in its purest form, in some cases, it is safely stored in canisters at room temperature and standard pressure. All of our medical gases are manufactured to the highest quality standards using the FDA’s Compressed Medical Gases Guidelines and in strict adherence to USP and NF specifications.

Reliable Gas Supply

In addition to providing the gas products required, we ensure dentists never run low or out of medical gas. After all, we don’t want customers to go a day, or even an hour, without an adequate supply! We simplified the process of ordering medical gas, which you can read more about in this blog post. We can also put dental customers on a weekly route check to ensure they always have an adequate supply of medical gas.

Excellent Customer Service

Last, but certainly not least, dentists can count on Atlas for customer service that borders on being seamless when it comes to medical gas supply, equipment and on-time delivery. Let us be your trusted partner!

Request a Solution from Atlas Welding Supply

Atlas provides medical gases and equipment services, such as breathing air, USP grade carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, NF grade nitrogen (compressed and liquid), for other medical providers, as well. Founded in 1944, Atlas Welding Supply provides you with the equipment and supplies to do your job better. With decades of experience in gas and welding applications, we are confident we can be your trusted partner for everything from supplying the appropriate gas, troubleshooting equipment, or providing customized solutions for your project for maximum efficiency. Contact us to request a solution!

Medical gases are crucial for healthcare facilities and services, as they offer life-sustaining support in surgeries and respiratory therapy.

At Meritus Gas Partners, we aim to provide solutions with seamless customer service so your patients remain your top priority. This means we don’t want you to go a day or even an hour without an adequate supply of medical gas!

When you’re placing a medical gas order, consider the following points to help streamline the process and ensure your facility always has a proper supply.

Basics of Medical Gases

Before placing an order, it’s vital to understand the basics of medical gases and safety and compliance in gas supply. This knowledge will help ensure gas supply safety and compliance within healthcare settings. There are various types of gases used in healthcare, each for different purposes.

For example, oxygen is crucial for respiratory therapy and life support, while nitrogen powers surgical tools. A consistent gas supply for laboratories and research centers is also crucial. For instance, helium is a carrier gas, and argon helps with research processes and instrumentation. These are just the tip of the iceberg, as the pharmaceuticals and biotechnology industry also relies on medical gases. Those looking to order medical gases must know which type best meets their needs.

Adhering to regulatory standards set by organizations like the Federal Drug Administration ensures the safe handling and storage of medical gases. These standards include everything from cylinder storage to shipping. Becoming familiar with these laws is essential for anyone responsible for buying medical gas. As such, partnering with certified suppliers who adhere to these critical standards is necessary.

Preparing to Order

Preparing to order medical gas requires careful consideration of the available suppliers and delivery options. Factors such as reliability, certification, pricing and service support are crucial when selecting a supplier. Furthermore, you must understand the different delivery options, such as cylinders, liquid containers or pipeline delivery. Each method is suitable based on the facility’s needs and usage patterns.

Consider Meritus Gas Partners as your reliable supplier. Meritus Gas Partners offers a network of distributors with access to industry-leading partners that can fulfill your medical gas needs.

The Process of Ordering Medical Gas

Ordering medical gas from Meritus Gas Partners is designed to be a straightforward process. Here’s how to order medical gas through us:

Identify your needs: Assess your current medical gas inventory to determine the types and quantities needed.
Find a local Meritus Partner: Next, locate a distributor near you.
Contact your selected supplier: Reach out via the supplier’s preferred contact method — email, phone or online form. 
Specify your order details: Clearly state the product(s), quantity and size of the required cylinders.
Confirm delivery schedule: Agree upon a delivery date or regular cycle that suits your operation’s needs.
Delivery and usage: Upon delivery, your supplier’s representative will place “Full” or “Empty” hang tags on the cylinders for easy use and inventory management.

Check cylinders and regulators daily, ensuring the correct cylinder is in use and turning off gas cylinders nightly. Your supplier will return on the agreed date to swap out empty cylinders for full ones, maintaining a seamless medical gas supply and delivery flow.

Safety and Storage

When receiving medical gas deliveries, there are best practices and storage guidelines to follow. Once you’ve received a medical gas delivery, consider the following:

Ensure only trained personnel handle gas cylinders.
Verify that the type and quantity of gas delivered match your order.
Inspect cylinders for damage or leaks upon arrival.

Always follow basic medical gas storage guidelines to maintain a safe environment:

Store gases in well-ventilated areas — away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Use appropriate signage to identify medical gas storage areas.
Secure cylinders in upright positions to prevent tipping. Chains or stands designed for this purpose are used.
Organize gases by type and compatibility — oxygen and flammable gases should be stored separately with adequate spacing.

Inventory Management

Conduct regular inventory checks to ensure an adequate supply is always available. This may reduce the likelihood of shortages during critical times. Meticulous record-keeping is crucial for safety and regulatory compliance, as it provides a precise account of gas use and distribution.

This method helps improve operating efficiency while ensuring that healthcare facilities, laboratories and research centers can consistently satisfy their gas supply requirements and follow industry standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have other questions about ordering medical gases? Here are a few answers to frequently asked questions.

How Do You Know Which Grade of Medical Gas to Order?

Consult with your supplier to determine the appropriate grade based on your specific application and regulatory requirements.

What Sizes of Medical Gas Cylinders Are Available?

Medical gas cylinders come in various sizes, ranging from small portable cylinders to large bulk containers, catering to different usage needs.

How Do You Ensure the Safety of Medical Gas Storage?

Follow strict storage guidelines, including proper ventilation, secure anchoring and segregation of gases according to compatibility. You can refer to the Compressed Gas Association for standards. 

How Do You Dispose of or Return Empty Medical Gas Cylinders?

Contact your supplier for guidance on proper disposal or return procedures, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

Choose Meritus Gas Partners for Your Medical Gas Needs

Trust Meritus Gas Partners for unparalleled quality, safety and customer satisfaction. Our commitment to excellence ensures a reliable gas supply for various industries — including healthcare. With a network of trusted partners and a dedication to meeting regulatory standards, we prioritize the needs of our customers above all else.

Find a distributor near you or contact us today and let us support your mission of delivering exceptional care.

Located in the Vestavia Medical Plaza, Surgical Institute of Alabama is designed to deliver differentiated care in a high-tech, high touch and customer-service focused environment.

The center was established to not only save patients time and money but also treat them the way you expect healthcare to be delivered. The delivery system in one location also allows for providers to work together to provide seamless delivery of your healthcare.

Atlas Welding Supply is proud to supply the Surgical Institute with the medical gases it needs to serve its patients. We supply the center with medical oxygen, nitrous oxide, and medical air.

When the center contacted Atlas, we first helped their team determine how many cylinders to keep on hand to maintain a constant supply and avoid shortages and emergency deliveries. We set the Surgical Institute up on a weekly route schedule to ensure their gas needs are always taken care of. We also worked with the center’s team to determine how the gas room should be staged to ensure the cylinders were chained up properly to create a safe environment with easy access for delivery drivers and their employees.

“Let me give you some small background information. As a scrub nurse, I had never dealt with medical gases,” said Michelle Richardson, a Certified Surgical Technologist at the Surgical Institute of Alabama. “Patrick guided me through the process and gave me great delivery men like Mr. Willie and Scott Walker. They are a great and supportive company. I would not want to work with any other company!”  

Do you need a medical gas solution supported by seamless customer service? Contact Atlas Welding Supply to request a solution.

Atlas Medical Gases

We take care of your needs so taking care of your patients is your top priority. Atlas has been a quality supplier of Medical Gases, mixtures and equipment for more than 60 years. All of our gases supplied for medical purposes are manufactured to the highest quality standards using the FDA’s Compressed Medical Gases Guidelines and in strict adherence to USP and NF specifications.

Dentists, Veterinarians, Dermatologists, and Outpatient Surgical Centers believe in us to provide medical gases, such as nitrogen to preserve vital blood and tissue, helium for MRIs, and oxygen and respiratory therapy gases to help patients breathe.