Does New Equipment Need an Inspection Before Use?

Does New Equipment Need to Be Inspected or Tested Before Use?

Accreditation Requirements:

Accreditation requirements vary, but facilities must have a program to help ensure medical equipment is safe and functions properly before being placed into service. Facilities should ensure their policies meet the requirements that apply to them.

Why Inspect New Equipment?

From our experience, we have seen “out-of-box failures.” New equipment can arrive with problems, so inspecting and testing it before use is more than just a regulatory requirement. It is a practical way to help ensure the equipment is safe and functions as intended.

The Bottom Line:

A medical equipment maintenance plan should address what happens when new equipment is received. A common approach is to require an electrical safety test and performance inspection before use. However, not all equipment requires the same tests. The inspection and testing process should be appropriate for the type of equipment and the manufacturer's recommendations.

Alternatively, the plan may allow manufacturer inspection and testing documentation to be used when it adequately addresses the facility's requirements. Any additional checks needed should be completed before the equipment is placed into service.

Regardless of the approach, the facility should document the inspection and testing performed, the results, and any issues identified and resolved before the equipment is approved for use.