Exponent has published an article detailing strategies to reduce fire risks in oxygen delivery systems, a critical concern given that approximately 75% of surgical fires involve oxygen-enriched environments. The firm emphasizes the importance of oxygen compatibility assessments for components used in these systems.
The article highlights how devices like electrocautery tools can ignite combustibles in the presence of elevated oxygen levels, leading to rapid fire spread. Exponent recommends minimizing oxygen concentration, controlling ignition sources, and conducting multidisciplinary risk assessments for operating rooms, hyperbaric chambers, and home oxygen therapy.
Manufacturers of oxygen systems can reduce fire hazards by systematically evaluating component ignitibility and flame spread behavior under in-use conditions. Exponent's expertise in fire investigations and engineering allows it to assist clients in designing robust systems and incorporating safeguards like thermal fuses, which are now required by the U.S. Veterans Health Administration for home-oxygen therapy systems.
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