Which authority can allow non-compliant systems to remain in service according to NFPA 99?

The authority that can allow non-compliant systems to remain in service according to NFPA 99 is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The AHJ is typically designated by the local government or relevant regulatory body to enforce codes and standards, ensuring safety and compliance in healthcare facilities.

The AHJ has the discretion to evaluate the specifics of a situation regarding non-compliant systems. They can determine if the risks associated with allowing a non-compliant system to remain in service are acceptable under the current circumstances. This flexibility allows healthcare facilities to operate effectively while sometimes needing time to reach full compliance, provided that patient safety and care are not compromised.

While organizations like OSHA, NFPA, and the CDC play crucial roles in setting standards or regulations related to safety and health, they do not possess the direct authority to permit the continued operation of non-compliant systems in the way the AHJ does. Each of these organizations focuses on different aspects of safety and health but ultimately relies on the AHJ to make specific determinations regarding compliance at the facility level.