In 2024, the Joint Commission updated its Survey Activity Guide with renewed emphasis on detailed piping schematics for medical gas and potable water systems. These changes reflect a growing recognition of the role accurate and up-to-date piping documentation plays in hospital safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.
While the Joint Commission is not the only accrediting body for healthcare facilities, it has significant authority in setting standards for hospitals—even those they do not accredit. This update by the Joint Commission represents a critical shift in best practices that all hospitals should attend to.
A Robust Water Management Program
Notably, the 2024 guide reminds surveyors to verify hospitals have a comprehensive water management program. Water management can include everything from regular water testing to cross-connection control. Detailed schematics that provide clear insight into “water supply sources, treatment systems, processing steps, control measures, and end-use points” are named in the guide as central to an effective program and its activities.
While not a direct requirement, accurate piping schematics are a proven system for hospitals to:
- Identify Potential Hazards: A thorough water risk management plan, guided by updated piping schematics and tools like the CDC’s “Water Infection Control Risk Assessment (WICRA) for Healthcare Settings,” can pinpoint areas where hazardous conditions are most likely to occur.
- Support Proactive Risk Management: Accurate schematics help teams address key areas of risk, including:
- Stagnant water risks, particularly in areas of the facility that may have been underused for extended periods
- Emergency and critical valve locations
- Potable water piping modifications by outside contractors
- Documentation and Corrective Actions: Hospitals are required to document all monitoring activities, corrective actions, and outcomes when water quality test results fall outside acceptable limits.
Annual review of schematics ensure they remain aligned with system changes, such as the addition of new equipment or systems, routine plumbing alterations, and construction planning.
Medical Gas System Oversight
The Joint Commission guide underscores the importance of medical gas and vacuum system inspection, testing, and documentation in compliance with relevant standards. Surveyors review records to confirm these systems are inspected and tested regularly, with attention to key elements such as:
- Clear labeling of medical gas supply lines and zone valves
- Compliance with patient care, safety, and operational standards
Having precise and updated schematics for medical gas systems enables staff to quickly locate and isolate zones in emergencies and during routine maintenance to ensure patient safety, continuity of care, and system reliability.
Why Piping Schematics Matter Now More Than Ever
Hospitals and other healthcare facilities are increasingly complex environments where utilities have a critical role in patient care and infection control. The 2024 Joint Commission guide demonstrates how piping schematics are foundational to managing risks associated with water and medical gas systems. Whether responding to a waterborne pathogen outbreak or ensuring the seamless operation of a medical gas supply, these schematics are indispensable tools.
For hospital leaders, the takeaway is clear: Investing in the creation, review, and updating of piping schematics is no longer optional. It’s a proactive measure that ensures compliance, reduces operational vulnerabilities, and supports the delivery of safe and effective patient care.
Learn how HydroCorp can support your hospital systems’ safety and compliance through detailed piping schematics and comprehensive water management programs.
