In a category 1 space, what is the minimum number of circuits required for hospital beds?

In a Category 1 space, which typically includes patient care areas such as hospitals, there are specific requirements for ensuring the provision of electrical services to essential medical equipment, including hospital beds. The National Electrical Code (NEC) and associated standards outline that a minimum of 14 circuits are necessary for these spaces. This requirement accounts for the diverse and critical electrical needs within a hospital environment.

The circuits must be designed to handle the demands of medical equipment, allowing for redundancy, safety, and efficiency in patient care. This ensures that if one circuit becomes compromised, there are adequate backup systems in place to maintain power to life-supporting technologies and other essential devices. Meeting this circuit requirement is crucial for adhering to safety standards and promoting effective healthcare delivery in a hospital setting.

This number is set to ensure adequate power distribution while also facilitating future expansions or additional equipment that may be introduced as healthcare technology evolves.