CHF Canada Risk Management Plan
  • CHF Canada Risk Management Plan

  • This is a practice template only. For our co-op members participating in our Risk Management program, it is not required to complete and submit the plan template for Phase Two of our Risk Management Program.

  • If you have any questions at all, please feel free to email or call me, Owen Carnahan at: ocarnahan@chfcanada.coop; 613-230-2201, ext. 236
  • Date
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  • Does your co-op conduct annual unit inspections?
  • Have you incorporated the questions on the Risk Management Unit Checklist into your annual unit inspections?
  • Are there any major repairs that are needed on your buildings with no plan to complete work in 6 months?
  • Are there any units that are uninhabitable?
  • Fire Loss Prevention

  • Are the units checked annually to ensure that smoke detectors are working?
  • Are the units checked annually to ensure that Carbon Monoxide detectors are working?
  • Does your co-op allow the use of propane barbeques or open-flame grills on balconies and patios and within 10 feet of the building?
  • Do all common areas have fire extinguishers which are inspected annually? (There should be a fire extinguisher in each common use area. The extinguishers should be inspected annually by a professional. Some Offices of the Fire Marshall, or local fire departments offer training sessions to show occupants how to use an extinguisher.)
  • Do all units have fire extinguishers that are inspected annually?
  • Does the building have automatic sprinklers which are inspected annually? (can be invaluable in preventing serious fires.)
  • If your co-op has clothes dryers, are they vented with a metal vent? (Dryer lint is highly combustible. Plastic exhaust vents should be replaced as they present a significant fire hazard, particularly for high use facilities such as common laundry areas. Plastic is susceptible to melting with the heat produced during the drying cycle. Flexible metal dryer ducts have a tendency to trap more lint on their interior. Rigid metal vents are non-combustible, and less susceptible to lint build up as they have no inner corrugations. All vents should be cleared of dryer lint annually to limit build up.)
  • Is there a by-law that prohibits smoking everywhere on the premises? (Non-smoking co-ops have a by-law that prohibits smoking anywhere on their premises. No smoking is allowed on balconies, patios or anywhere else on the property.)
  • If smoking is only allowed in designated areas, what are the designated areas?(Some co-ops have a by-law that prohibits smoking in the units and indoor common areas, but allows smoking in designated areas. These should not have flower planters and should have a safe place to dispose of ash and cigarette butts.)
  • Do you check to make sure that access to fire hydrants is unobstructed? (e.g., snow accumulations, bushes and vehicles).
  • Do you post emergency telephone numbers in highly visible areas?
  • Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist - This is where you would document any risks that you found on the Risk Management Unit Checklist.
  • Were there any issues with smoke detectors, including anything you found on the Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklists?
  • Is action required to follow up on any fire safety issues?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Water Loss Prevention

  • Are there water leak detectors throughout the property?(Sinks, toilets, bathtubs and washing machine hoses are common places for water leaks and accidental overflows. Water leak detectors are inexpensive devices that can easily be placed in these areas to detect leaks. Some devices will sound an audible alarm when a leak is detected.)
  • Do you have large, common hot water tanks that serve multiple units?
  • If you have individual (one per unit) hot water tanks, are they replaced by 10 years old? (The co-op must ensure that the tanks are replaced at regular intervals to prevent old tanks from leaking or bursting, causing water damage.)
  • Do you have a tank-less hot water system?
  • Are the hoses on washing machines reinforced steel? (The co-op must ensure that the hoses are replaced at regular intervals to prevent leaking or bursting, causing water damage. Where the co-op does not own the equipment, they need to ensure that the owners do replace the hoses at appropriate intervals. Braided steel hoses are recommended.)
  • If not, are the hoses less than 5 years old?
  • Do you have a professional inspect sewage lines regularly to allow for early detection of blockages?
  • Do you check all water supply lines on a regular basis to ensure that there are no breaks or leaks?
  • Do you have established procedures residents can use to report issues with appliances and plumbing?
  • Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist - This is where you would document any risks that you found on the Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklists.
  • Were any issues with washing machine hoses noted on the unit inspection checklists?
  • Is action required tofollow up on plumbing or water systems?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Driveways

  • Does your co-op have driveways?
  • How often is the driveways inspected for hazards?
  • Are there any uneven or damaged areas of the driveways?
  • Does the co-op have a relationship with a paving contractor that they can use for an emergency repair?
  • Is action required to repair or maintain any areas of the driveways?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Walking Paths/Sidewalks

  • Does Your co-op have walking paths on the property or sidewalks to individual units?
  • Are the Walking Paths and Sidewalks inspected annually?
  • Are the Walking Paths and Sidewalks in good condition? (A member or visitor could trip and fall if the walkway is uneven, cracked, or damaged.)
  • Are there any areas of your pathways and walkways that are cracked or lifting and might cause a tripping hazard?
  • Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist - This is where you would document any risks that you found on the Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklists
  • Were any issues with walkways noted on the unit inspection checklists?
  • Does the co-op have a relationship with a contractor that they can use for an emergency repair?
  • Is action required to repair or maintain cracked pavement or lifted patio stones?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Roof

  • Are roofs routinely inspected to verify that there isn't any damage or excessive wear and tear? (Regular inspections should be supplemented with assessments by professional roofing maintenance providers, who can correct small deficiencies before they create more serious problems.)
  • Are rain gutters inspected and maintained annually? (Maintain clean and healthy rain gutters. In the event of excess rain, functioning drainage systems are crucial to avoid water buildup.)
  • Is the roof in need of maintenance? (Curled and missing shingles are a sign that the roof is nearing the end of its life expectancy)
  • Does the co-op have a relationship with a contractor that they can use for an emergency repair?
  • Is action required to repair or replace missing shingles or roof damage?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Windows

  • Are the windows in the co-op building inspected annually to ensure that there is no excessive wear and that they aren't leaking?
  • Are there any units that require maintenance to their windows?
  • Does the co-op have a relationship with acontractor that they can use for an emergency repair?
  • Is action required to repair or maintain any windows?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Electrical

  • Have you ever had an electrical inspection done by a certified electrician?
  • Have there been any electrical upgrades done to the buildings?
  • Have there been any electrical upgrades done to any individual units?
  • Have any electrical concerns been brought up by any members?
  • Are there any extension cords in use in any maintenance or service areas?
  • Are there any extension cords in use in any common areas? (Extension cords should only be used temporarily and are a large cause of fires.)
  • Does the co-op have a relationship with an electrical contractor that they can use for any repairs?
  • Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist - This is where you would document any risks that you found on the Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist
  • Were any issues with electrical outlets or light switches noted on the unit inspection checklists?
  • Is action required for any outstanding repairs or maintenance, to the electrical system in the building?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Plumbing

  • Is the plumbing in the building original to when the building was constructed
  • Have there been any upgrades to the plumbing system?
  • Is all plumbing maintenance and work done by a plumbing contractor?
  • Are all downspouts directing water away from the walkways?
  • Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist - This is where you would document any risks that you found on the Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklists.
  • Were any issues with downspouts noted on the unit inspection checklists?
  • Does the co-op have a relationship with a plumber that they can use for an emergency repair?
  • Have any concerns with the plumbing been reported?
  • Is action required to repair or maintain the plumbing in the building?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Decks and Balconies

  • Does your co-op have balconies or decks attached to the units?
  • Are the balconies or decks inspected annually?
  • Are there any best practices in place for members that have BBQ on decks or balconies? (Example: the BBQ must be kept so many feet from the wall? BBQ must never be left unattended)
  • Are there fire extinguishers within close proximity to the BBQ?
  • Are coal or wood fired BBQ permitted?
  • If gas BBQ's are used, how is the fuel (Propane tanks) brought to the cooking area?
  • Are spare tanks permitted to be on site,
  • Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist - This is where you would document any risks that you found on the Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist.
  • Were any issues with decks or balconies reported on the unit inspection checklists?
  • Is action required torepair or maintain any decks or balconies?
  • Does the co-op have a relationship with a contractor that they can use for an emergency repair?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Washers and Dryers

  • Does your co-op have common area laundry rooms?
  • Do you check that all appliances are in working order and free of leaks annually?
  • Do you routinely inspect and clean lint screens and dryer ducts? (Dryer vents should be unobstructed, connected and clean. All dryers require an appropriate vent, which cannot be plastic and must be metal. Hot, humid air MUST be properly vented outside. It is also important to empty the lint catcher every time the dryer is used. Built-up lint can lead to fires.)
  • Do you keep the area behind dryers and washers clean?
  • Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist - This is where you would document any risks that you found on the Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist.
  • Were any issues with washers or dryers noted on the unit inspection checklists?
  • Is action required to repair or maintain any elements of the laundry rooms?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Liability Loss Prevention

  • Are window air conditioning units used in the summer months?
  • If they are used in the summer are they securely fastened?
  • Are walkways, hallways and stairways kept clean and dry at all times? (Wet, icy or cluttered areas present a slip and fall hazard and can promote the growth of mold, fungi, and bacteria.)
  • Do you remove all objects and clutter from hallways, exits and passageways, and make sure residents know to do the same?
  • Does your co-op display warning signs to alert others of a wet floor?
  • Do you use floor mats while surfaces are drying after cleaning to provide traction?
  • Do you ensure that entryways are dry and free of pooling water?
  • Are spills cleaned immediately?
  • While washing the floor, do staff wear protective footgear to prevent falling?
  • Do you stretch out bulging carpets in hallways to prevent trips and falls?
  • Do you repair broken light fixtures and replace bulbs for adequate visibility?
  • Do you fill in any potholes in the yard, parking lot and similar areas?
  • Do you ensure there is no standing water on walkways?
  • Do you check that stairwell areas are equipped with handrails? (Exterior and interior handrails and guardrails must be installed where required to prevent accidents. Handrails and guardrails must be firmly fastened.)
  • Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist - This is where you would document any risks that you found on the Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist.
  • Were any issues with tripping hazards noted on the unit inspection checklists?
  • Were any issues with handrails noted on the unit inspection checklists?
  • Is action required to follow up on any of the above liability concerns?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Professionally Completed and Inspected Renovations

  • Are all renovations and repairs and upgrades completed by professionals?   (This question relates to changes to the unit that are more than just cosmetic (paint and wallpaper).  For example, installing a ceiling fan, or moving a wall or even just moving an electrical outlet. Ideally, all changes will be pre-approved by the board or a sub-committee, and ANY electrical or plumbing work would need to be completed by a licensed professional with appropriate inspections by the authorities. All other major or structural work should be performed by professionals.)
  • Snow Removal

  • Do you have a paid contract in place for snow removal? (The contract should specify the conditions under which they will perform their services, and they should keep logs of where and when services are performed. Ideally, they will share these logs with you on a regular basis.)
  • If yes, do you have a certificate of insurance from snow removal company?
  • Does the snow removal company provide copies of their logs showing what service was provided and when?
  • Is action required to follow up on snow removal contracts?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Building Security

  • Do you have controlled access into the building by locking all exterior entrances, including accessible roof openings and doors to balconies and terraces?
  • Are utility rooms and similar maintenance areas locked?
  • Are all emergency exits clearly marked?
  • Are exterior entrance doors equipped with automatic locks?
  • Do you have alarm systems, security cameras or similar safety devices installed at the property?
  • Do hallways and common areas within the building have appropriate lighting?
  • Is there adequate illumination in all areas of the building, including parking facilities and entryways?
  • Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist - This is where you would document any risks that you found on the Risk Management Unit Inspection Checklist.
  • Were any issues with hallway lighting noted on the unit inspection checklists?
  • Is action required to follow up, repair or maintain any areas building security?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Education/Safety and Loss Prevention Workshops

  • Does the co-op hold safety and loss prevention workshops for their members?  (Education of members is very important in keeping your co-op safe. Providing short, in-person workshops for the members is a great way to keep members informed about safety issues.)
  • Maintenance Contracts

  • Does your co-op have a maintenance contract for elevator maintenance and repairs?
  • Does your co-op have a maintenance contract for tree removal?
  • Does your co-op have a maintenance contract for landscaping?
  • Does your co-op have a maintenance contract for it’s HVAC system?
  • Common Areas

    This section is to be answered for the common areas of your co-op. This includes, but is not limited to: foyers, offices, meeting rooms, outdoor areas, and any other areas that are not individual units.
  • Fire

  • Are the common areas checked regularly to ensure that smoke detectors are working?
  • Do all common areas have CO detectors?
  • Do all common areas have fire extinguishers which are inspected annually?(There should be a fire extinguisher in each common use area. The extinguishers should be inspected annually by a professional. Some Offices of the Fire Marshall, or local fire departments offer training sessions to show occupants how to use an extinguisher.)
  • Water

  • Do you check all water supply lines of the common areas on a regular basis to ensure that there are no breaks or leaks?
  • Is action required to follow up on plumbing or water systems in the common areas?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Parking Lots

  • Does your co-op have parking lots?
  • How often is the parking lot inspected for hazards?
  • Are there any uneven or damaged areas of the parking lot?
  • Does the co-op have a relationship with a paving contractor that they can use for an emergency repair?
  • Is action required to repair or maintain any areas of the parking lots?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Roofs

  • Are roofs of any common areas or common area buildings routinely inspected to verify that there isn't any damage or excessive wear and tear? (Regular inspections should be supplemented with assessments by professional roofing maintenance providers, who can correct small deficiencies before they create more serious problems.)
  • Are any common area roofs in need of maintenance? (Curled and missing shingles are a sign that the roof is nearing the end of its life expectancy)
  • Is there a contractor available for the co-op to call in the event of an emergency repair to the roofs of any common area buildings?
  • Is action required to any common area roofs, to repair or replace missing shingles or roof damage?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance workor repairs that need to be done:
  • Windows

  • Are the windows in the common areas of the co-op building inspected annually to ensure that there is no excessive wear and that they aren't leaking?
  • Does the co-op have a relationship with a contractor that they can use for an emergency repair of any leaking or damaged windows?
  • Is action required to repair or maintain any windows?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Electrical

  • Have you ever had an electrical inspection done of any of the common areas, by a certified electrician?
  • Have there been any electrical upgrades done to any common areas of the buildings at your co-op?
  • Have any electrical concerns in any common areas been brought up by any members?
  • Are there any extension cords in use in any common areas? (Extension cords should only be used temporarily and are a large cause of fires.)
  • Does the co-op have a relationship with an electrical contractor that they can use for any repairs?
  • Is action required for any outstanding repairs or maintenance, to the common area electrical system in the building?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenancework or repairs that need to be done:
  • Laundry Rooms

  • Does your co-op have common area laundry rooms?
  • Do you keep laundry rooms, exercise rooms and similar entrances to common areas locked?
  • Do you check that all appliances are in working order and free of leaks annually?
  • Are laundry room rules posted in clear view?
  • If you have common laundry facilities, is the laundry area is well-lit?
  • Are residents instructed to clean up after themselves to help reduce trip hazards in the common area laundry rooms.
  • Do you use warning signs near wet floors and spills in the common area laundry rooms?
  • Are spills in the common area laundry rooms cleaned up quickly?
  • If your co-op has clothes dryers, in common area laundry rooms, are they vented with a metal vent? (Dryer lint is highly combustible. Plastic exhaust vents should be replaced as they present a significant fire hazard, particularly for high use facilities such as common laundry areas. Plastic is susceptible to melting with the heat produced during the drying cycle. Flexible metal dryer ducts have a tendency to trap more lint on their interior. Rigid metal vents are non-combustible, and less susceptible to lint build up as they have no inner corrugations. All vents should be cleared of dryer lint annually to limit build up.)
  • Do you routinely inspect and clean lint screens and dryer ducts? (Dryer vents should be unobstructed, connected and clean. All dryers require an appropriate vent, which cannot be plastic and must be metal. Hot, humid air MUST be properly vented outside. It is also important to empty the lint catcher every time the dryer is used. Built-up lint can lead to fires.)
  • Do you keep the area behind dryers and washers clean in common area laundry rooms?
  • Is action required to repair or maintain any elements of the common area laundry rooms?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Common Areas

  • Are Common areas, such as office or meeting spaces, inspected annually?
  • Do all common area stairways in the co-op have handrails?
  • Do common areas and hallways have appropriate lighting?
  • Are the common areas and hallways free of any tripping hazards? (Lifting carpets, curled doormats, carelessly placed trashcans and cracked tiles can contribute to the risk of tripping leading to injury and slip and fall claims. Carpets buckling in hallways can be trip and fall hazards. Especially for the young, elderly, and house guests.)
  • Are all access areas, exits, passageways and stairways free of obstructions? (Keep hallways and emergency exits clear at all times to make sure that obstructions don't prevent members from safely exiting the building.)
  • Do you post instructional signage in common areas, instructing residents on what to do in an emergency?
  • Is action required to repair or maintain any common areas of the co-op?
  • Describe the seriousness of the maintenance work or repairs that need to be done:
  • Help when you need it!

    If you have any questions at all, please feel free to email or call me, Owen Carnahan at: ocarnahan@chfcanada.coop; 613-230-2201, ext. 236
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