How many pins are designated for oxygen in the Pin-Index Safety System (PISS)?

In the Pin-Index Safety System (PISS), which is designed to prevent incorrect gas connections in medical gas cylinders, oxygen is designated with two specific pin positions. The PISS consists of a receptacle that has holes corresponding to specific pin arrangements at the top of each cylinder. For oxygen, the designated pin positions are located at holes 2 and 5.

This two-pin configuration ensures that only oxygen regulators can connect to oxygen cylinders, thus maintaining safety and preventing the possibility of connecting a cylinder containing another gas that might be hazardous or incompatible with the intended application. The standardized pin locations are a crucial part of the safety protocols in handling medical gases, underscoring the importance of using correct equipment with designated gas types to prevent accidents or misadministration.

Understanding this pin arrangement is vital for anyone involved in the storage and handling of medical gases, as it is a fundamental aspect of ensuring patient safety and effective medical practice.