Device Alert Reference: MDA/2003/014
Issued: 9 May 2003

Failure to meet the MRI scanner manufacturer's specification for the quench pipe may lead to discharge of helium gas into the scan room during a quench.

Incidents have been reported whereby failure of the quench pipes has resulted in gaseous cryogen venting into scan rooms, presenting a freezing burns hazard and an asphyxiation hazard.

Sites are advised that MRI system manufacturers do not routinely check quench pipes during planned preventative maintenance.

Sites are also advised that quench pipes may not be of sufficient diameter to withstand the pressures involved in a quench, particularly where 3T systems are installed in rooms previously occupied by lower field strength systems.

The full device alert can be downloaded directly from the MHRA's website.

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