Whether in industrial or medical fields, PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) oxygen systems are widely used. Such systems typically consist of an air compressor, air dryer, air storage tank (dry tank), filters, oxygen generator, oxygen booster, and oxygen storage tank. Both the manufacturing process and technical applications of these systems have reached a high level of maturity, ensuring inherent safety. However, since the systems involve the use of pressure vessels (a type of special equipment), obtaining a Pressure Vessel Usage Permit from the using entity is one of the necessary conditions for legally and compliantly operating a PSA oxygen system.
In fact, China has strict regulations governing all types of special equipment, including pressure vessels, covering production, usage, and inspection testing, with oversight implemented throughout the entire process. Naturally, pressure vessels within PSA oxygen systems must undergo supervision and inspection by authorized testing institutions to ensure compliance with national standards and safety requirements before they can be put into operation.
Besides meeting mandatory national requirements, obtaining a Pressure Vessel Usage Permit offers two additional benefits to the using entity:
Establishment of Safety Management Systems: The permit application process prompts the establishment of comprehensive safety management and job-specific responsibility systems, along with emergency response measures and rescue plans, ensuring timely responses to emergencies during equipment operation.
Ensuring Operator Qualifications: The entity must ensure that operators hold valid Special Operation Certificates and are formally employed, guaranteeing that personnel possess the necessary expertise and skills for proper operation and maintenance.
Obtaining a Personnel Training Certification involves four steps:
Professional Training: Primarily focused on learning operational norms, safety knowledge, and emergency response skills for pressure vessels.
Theoretical Examination: Passing a test covering basic knowledge of pressure vessels, safety regulations, and operational procedures.
Practical Assessment: Demonstrating practical skills through assessments that include equipment startup, operation, shutdown, and troubleshooting. Only those proficient and safety-conscious pass.
Certificate Issuance: Successful candidates receive a Special Equipment Operation Qualification Certificate from relevant authorities, serving as legal authorization for pressure vessel operations.
In summary, operators of PSA oxygen generators must possess appropriate qualifications. Furthermore, equipment quality, professional capabilities, and safety systems collectively form the support framework for safe pressure vessel operations. These elements interrelate and enhance each other, providing crucial assurance for the safe and stable operation of PSA oxygen systems.