How Do You Know Portable Oxygen Is Safe? | Respocare
- Matthew Hellyar
- Oct 21
- 4 min read
Breathe Freely Anywhere: The Safe Promise of Portable Oxygen Therapy
At Respocare, we believe everyone using oxygen should feel empowered, mobile and safe. If your doctor has prescribed oxygen and you’re looking beyond stationary use at home — perhaps you’re out and about, travelling or just want the freedom to move — a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) could be a great choice. And choosing one that’s certified, well-maintained and supported means you’re not just getting mobility — you’re getting peace of mind.
In this article we’ll walk you through why portable oxygen is safe, what safety standards and checks these devices go through, and how Respocare supports you every step of the way so you can live your life with fewer constraints.
What is a Portable Oxygen Concentrator—and why mobility matters
A portable oxygen concentrator is a lighter, mobile version of the home oxygen unit. Think of it as an oxygen generator that you can carry or wheel alongside you, powered by battery, mains electricity or vehicle adapter. It allows you to:
Take your therapy with you when going out or travelling
Maintain your prescribed oxygen level during activity and transit
Reduce reliance on heavy oxygen cylinders or large carts
For example, institutions like UCSF Health note that POCs make “traveling with oxygen… more practical” because they run on battery or wall outlets and are accepted for air travel if properly certified. ucsfhealth.org
This mobility means you’re less confined and more independent — but obviously that independence must be paired with rigorous safety.
What makes portable oxygen therapy safe? Rigorous device checks & standards
Portable oxygen devices are not just gadgets. They are medical equipment, regulated and tested to strict standards. Here’s a breakdown of the key safety layers:
1. International standards for oxygen concentrators
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) recognises standards such as ISO 80601-2-69:2020, which specifies “particular requirements for the basic safety and essential performance of oxygen concentrator equipment” — including transit-operable devices. FDA Access Data
That means portable units are tested for electrical safety, mechanical reliability, battery safety, oxygen purity, flow accuracy and performance under various conditions.
They’re also subject to standards for medical electrical equipment like the general IEC 60601 series. Wikipedia+1
2. Aviation & transport approval
Because mobility often means travel — including flights — POCs must comply with transport regulations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the U.S., for instance, has "acceptance criteria" for POCs aboard aircraft. A device must be legally marketed in the U.S., not interfere with aircraft systems, not generate compressed gas (since it concentrates ambient air) and be properly labelled. faa.gov
This ensures that when you travel, the unit meets both medical and transport safety requirements.
3. On-the-ground usage & risk-mitigation
Because supplemental oxygen increases fire risk (oxygen itself isn’t flammable, but it fuels combustion), there are safety protocols: no smoking near oxygen, avoid oil/grease near tubing, secure the unit in vehicles, etc. For example, the New York State Department of Health fire-safety guide for home oxygen emphasises grounded outlets, no extension cords, and good ventilation. New York State Department of Health
Everyday safety tips include: placing the concentrator in a well-ventilated space; keeping it away from heat sources; maintaining filters; securing battery packs; checking tubing for leaks. MJHS Health System+1
So in short: the unit is tested to rigorous medical device standards, approved for mobility/transport, and accompanied by clear safety protocols for home and travel use.
How Respocare ensures your portable oxygen journey is worry-free
Choosing the right provider makes all the difference. At Respocare we go beyond simply supplying equipment. Here’s how we help you stay safe, mobile and confident:
Certified devices only: We supply portable concentrators that meet recognised safety standards (e.g., ISO, FDA, FAA-acceptable for travel) so you’re not taking unnecessary risk.
Expert setup & training: Before you take a unit, we walk you through how to use it, how to switch it between battery and mains, how to pack extra batteries for travel, how to maintain it and check alarms.
Safety checklist & travel assistance: If you’re planning to fly or travel with your POC, we help you arrange the necessary documentation (doctor’s letter, airline clearance) and ensure your unit is approved. This reduces stress when you move beyond your home.
Maintenance & ongoing service: We schedule service visits or checks to clean filters, inspect batteries, update firmware (if applicable) and ensure continued performance. We also advise you on safe storage, battery care and usage hours.
Backup options: For peace of mind, we can arrange a backup oxygen supply in case of power failure or travel delays. So you’re not left stranded.
With these layers of support, you’re not just getting a portable oxygen unit — you’re getting a mobile care system.
Best practices when using your portable oxygen concentrator
Here are some key guidelines you and your caregiver should keep in mind:
Always use the flow rate prescribed by your doctor — don’t adjust your unit without guidance.
When travelling in a car, secure the device, ensure ventilation, and carry power adapters for both vehicle and mains. MJHS Health System
For flight: Check with airline ahead of time which POC models they accept, ensure you have extra battery to cover 150% of flight time (as recommended by UCSF). ucsfhealth.org
Avoid smoking and open flames near your oxygen kit; avoid placing unit near heaters, oils, solvents or combustible fabrics.
Ensure the unit has clean filters and adequate clearance from walls/furniture to allow airflow. Replace cannula or tubing as recommended. Intermountain Health+1
Keep spare batteries charged, have a plan in case of power outage, and carry your provider’s contact for emergencies.
Final thoughts: Freedom with safety
Portable oxygen therapy gives you the freedom to live your life beyond your home without compromising the therapy your body needs. Because the devices undergo rigorous testing, comply with medical device standards, are travel approved and supported by trained providers like Respocare, you can feel confident that mobility and safety go hand-in-hand.
So whether you’re stepping out for errands, catching a flight, visiting friends or simply want to move about your day with less tethering — you can breathe easier knowing your oxygen journey is supported, safe and mobile.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’re ready to explore a portable oxygen solution that gives you mobility and peace of mind, reach out to us at Respocare. Let us assess your needs, walk you through the device, travel options and safety protocols — and set you up with a solution that's tailored to your life. Contact us today and embrace freedom with assurance.
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