Hazard Inspection Process

Table of Contents
02. Prepare for the Installation

live

This page will explain the steps to take for performing the Hazard Inspection Procedure (HIP). The HIP should be performed ahead of every installation. This includes each individual space within a multi-space installation. Prior to completing the Hazard Inspection Procedure, ensure you have performed the initial walkaround with the customer.

Page Contents


Types of Installation: Off-the-Floor, Floor-Based, Virtuoso, Wall Bed, Paxton, Martha Stewart

Installer Level Required: Jr. Apprentice Installer

Products Required: N/A


The Hazard Inspection Procedure

There are several potential hazards that can negatively impact the installation experience due to simply not being aware of what is inside or on the opposite side of the walls you are installing a system on. Not only can this put the safety of you, your team members, and customers at risk, but it also can lead to costly repairs, delayed installation, and a stressful situation for everyone involved. By taking a few minutes prior to beginning the installation process to inspect for any potential hazards, you can avoid unnecessary damages and retain customer trust. ​

The first step is to consult with the customer or contractor about any possible known hazards within the walls and inspect the installation space. ​

Ask where all water and gas shut off valves and electrical panels are located in the event of an emergency. Take note the location for each on the HIP Checklist.​

​Ensure you have a clear path to all shut offs.

 

In the second step, you will want to perform a visual inspection of the installation space(s). ​

Look for access panels and, if applicable, remove and inspect the space behind the panel​

Take note of all electrical, such as switches, outlets, light fixtures and blank cover plates​

Check for any water fixtures that may be present​

Lastly, check for any HVAC fixtures, duct work and return vents in the installation space​

 

After inspecting all installation walls for hazards, your third step will be to perform a visual inspection of all opposite walls you will be installing on. ​

There are a number of possible hazards, but some of the most common things you will run into include: ​

Recessed medicine cabinets and shelving​

Plumbing​

Pocket doors​

Electrical components such as panels, switches, outlets, light fixtures and cover plates​

Personal items, such as artwork and photographs​

If you identify artwork or pictures hung on opposite walls, respectfully ask the customer to remove these items until installation is complete. ​

 

The fourth step is to look for are those that are inside the walls themselves but cannot be seen visually on the outside. ​

Using a stud finder, scan each installation wall for other potential internal hazards. 

 

Make note of important contact information for plumbing, electrical, and gas services.

 

The Hazard Inspection Procedure Checklist

The HIP Checklist is a tool that you can use to ensure you have completed a full visual inspection of both the installation space and opposite walls, and space for you to note where all shut-off valves are located in case of an emergency​.

You should bring a copy of this with you to every installation.


Related Training Materials

Hazard Inspection Printable Files
Preparing for an Installation
PPE Matrix


Next Steps: Reviewing Installation Plans

 

Questions? Please e-mail Aleeshya Broome (albroome@calclosets.com)