Veterinary Hospitals and Clinics

[Mureng]

NEC article 517 says in 517.1 Scope that "the provisions of this article shall apply to health care facilities that provide services to human beings". However - a veterinary hospital that has operating rooms with medical gas systems would seem to be the same thing - only for animals. I am involved in design for a vet hospital and am trying to determine just what applies here. The AHJ has no clue. Does the operating rooms require an isolated power system, like in a people operating room? Is the med gas/oxygen/anesthesia areas considered class 1, div 1 areas up to 5' AFF, like in a people treatment area? (This is all covered and required by article 517 - for human being healthcare facilities). Anyone that can shed some light on this and help clarify what is and is not required for a veterinary hospital, please do. I need some clarification. Thanks!

 

[Cow]

It does not apply.

I wire dairies, I can assure I do NOT wire their hospital barns where they treat their sick cows like a healthcare facility!!

 

[rbalex]

First let me confess I've never done any veterinary facilities and my hospital experience is very limited, primarily to emergency power systems.

That said, in addition to Article 517, "human" medical facilities are covered by both NFPA 99 and 101 as noted in the Informational Note under Article 517's Title. "Animal" medical facilities, such as they exist, are covered by NFPA 150. I am not familiar with that document but would suggest you review it.