It’s one of the most common — and most misunderstood — questions in the hyperbaric industry:
Do we have to use the manufacturer (OEM) to service our hyperbaric chamber?
Many hospitals assume the answer is yes. In fact, some are told directly that using any provider outside of the OEM could impact compliance, safety, or inspection outcomes. But the reality is more nuanced. Hyperbaric chambers are highly specialized systems, and the standards that govern them are strict. However, those standards are not written to limit facilities to a single service provider — they are written to ensure safe, documented, and properly executed maintenance, regardless of who performs it. Understanding this distinction is critical for facilities looking to balance compliance, cost, and operational flexibility.
Where the Confusion Comes From
The belief that only the OEM can service a hyperbaric chamber typically comes from a combination of:
• Manufacturer recommendations
• Internal hospital policies
• Misinterpretation of compliance requirements
• Risk-averse decision-making
OEMs often position themselves as the “safest” or “only” option — which can make it difficult for facilities to confidently evaluate alternatives. But recommendations are not the same as requirements.
What the Standards Actually Require
Hyperbaric chambers are regulated under recognized safety and operational standards, including:
• NFPA-99: Health Care Facilities Code
• ASME PVHO-2 Safety Standard
These standards focus on:
• Safe operation of pressure vessels
• Proper maintenance procedures
• Qualified personnel performing service
• Accurate documentation and recordkeeping
They are designed to protect patients, staff, and facilities — not to mandate who performs the service. There is no requirement within these standards stating that only the OEM must service hyperbaric chambers.
What Actually Determines Compliance
From a regulatory and inspection standpoint, compliance is based on how the work is performed, not who performs it.
Facilities must be able to demonstrate:
• That maintenance is performed at appropriate intervals
• That technicians are qualified and competent
• That all work is properly documented
• That systems are operating safely and as intended
This is what inspectors, accrediting bodies, and internal compliance teams evaluate. A chamber serviced by a qualified third-party provider — with proper documentation and adherence to standards — can meet the same compliance expectations as one serviced by the OEM.
Internal reference:
https://www.baroserv.com/blog/why-nfpa-99-compliance-isnt-optional
The Role of Qualified Third-Party Providers
Third-party providers like BaroServ specialize in hyperbaric maintenance across multiple manufacturers, including:
• Sechrist
• Perry
• Bara-Med
• and other OEM systems
These providers focus on:
• Preventive maintenance
• Lifecycle services (MOH and COH)
• Parts sourcing (OEM and compliant alternatives)
• Inspection readiness and documentation
Because they are not tied to a single manufacturer, third-party providers often offer greater flexibility in service planning and execution.
Internal reference:
https://www.baroserv.com/blog/oem-vs-third-party-providers
Why This Matters for Hospitals
Understanding that OEM-only service is not required gives facilities more control over their hyperbaric programs. It allows hospitals to:
• Compare service options
• Evaluate cost structures
• Improve response times
• Build customized maintenance plans
• Reduce dependency on a single provider
Most importantly, it allows facilities to make decisions based on what best supports patient care and operational performance, not just default assumptions.
Common Misconceptions to Watch For
Facilities should take a closer look when they hear statements like:
• “Only the manufacturer can service this chamber.”
• “Using a third party will make you non-compliant.”
• “You won’t pass inspection unless we do the work.”
These claims often create confusion, especially when not supported by actual regulatory language. When evaluating service recommendations, it’s always reasonable to ask:
What standard requires this?
A More Strategic Way to Approach Service Decisions
Instead of asking, “Do we have to use the OEM?” a better question is: “Who can provide compliant, reliable, and well-documented service for our facility?”
The answer may be the OEM, It may be a third-party provider, or it may be a combination of both. What matters is that the provider:
• Understands hyperbaric systems
• Follows recognized standards
• Documents work thoroughly
• Supports your long-term lifecycle strategy
The Bottom Line
You are not required to use the OEM to service your hyperbaric chamber. You are required to ensure that your chamber is safe, compliant, and properly maintained. Facilities that understand this distinction are better positioned to make informed, cost-effective, and operationally sound decisions.
Want a Second Opinion on Your Current Service Approach?
If your facility has been told that OEM-only service is required, BaroServ can help review your current setup and provide a clear, compliance-based perspective. Contact BaroServ to evaluate your service options and ensure your program is supported the right way.
BaroServ: Premium Hyperbaric Chamber Maintenance. Faster. Safer. Certified.
