▷ SHK AND ELECTRICAL COOPERATION: PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS

To avoid unclear responsibilities, it is advisable to create a so-called responsibility matrix. A responsibility matrix is nothing more than a visual representation of tasks and responsibilities, for example in a table. Activities are named in the left column and those involved are named in the top row. It is then noted who takes on which role and which task. This can be done in detail or with abbreviations.

For specific projects, such as installing a heat pump, there are now official checklists published by the trade associations of the electrical trade (ZVEH) and the plumbing and heating trade (ZVSHK). The “Checklist for exchanging information and data for the design and installation of an electric heat pump” is intended for both specialist planners, energy consultants and architects.

However, when working with such documents, care must be taken to ensure that they are kept as up to date as possible. This can be done in physical form, although it must be determined who is responsible for the document. It is easier to digitize these documents and make them available to all involved. A suitable tool for specialized companies would be a handcrafted software with a document management system.

Era	Wer
	Management	Project Manager	SHK installer	Electrician
Cost estimate	Responsible	Responsible	Informed	Informed
Photovoltaic system design	Informed	Responsible	Informed	Advisory
Installation of the heat pump	Informed	Advisory	Responsible	Informed
Electrical connections	Informed	Informed	Informed	Responsible

Here’s what an example responsibility matrix might look like.

2. Example of work instructions

Sample work instructions are ideal for avoiding safety risks and complying with safety regulations. For the «use of work and protection scaffolding» and for the «assembly of the photovoltaic generator fields (DC side towards inverter)» two work instructions have been developed, also developed in collaboration with the trade associations ZVEH and ZVSHK.

The models emerge from the industry agreement with ZVEH, ZVDH, ZVSHK, BG ETEM and BG BAU and aim to “minimize or eliminate the risks of falls and electrical hazards during the assembly and installation of photovoltaic systems on roofs”.²

The instructions for the assembly of PV generator fields are aimed at persons with training in electrical engineering (EuP) under the direction and supervision of a qualified electrician. To be considered EuP, HVAC installers, for example, can complete training at the TÜV SÜD Academy or other certified providers. The training entitles you to carry out simple electrical engineering work, but does not allow you to carry out the final installation and testing.

3. Integrated system planning with clear cost transparency

To manage the complexity of planning modern energy systems, it is recommended to plan together as early as possible, taking into account all disciplines. This above all helps to provide customers with an overview of the exact costs as soon as possible, which ultimately affects the reputation of the respective company.

If, for example, the new heat pump requires the installation of a new meter, it is advisable to promptly report this to the electrician, so that the installation can be taken into consideration in the estimate and the customer does not have to face unpleasant surprises. It is therefore advisable to always plan and implement projects of this type from the beginning with a partner company.

4. Digital collaboration: project platform, documentation, releases

Digitalisation has been a recurring theme in the craft sector for years. While it has made good progress recently,³ digital collaboration in particular can pose a problem. Digital platforms such as ERP systems are not always compatible with each other and the necessary data exchange is difficult. The simplest solution to this problem is to agree on a digital platform with which both companies can work or to ensure a corresponding interface.

If larger projects are often implemented, you can also consider using building information modeling software, or BIM software for short. This allows buildings to be mapped completely digitally, building data exchanged at any time and realistic simulations of projects to be carried out. However, getting familiar with BIM software can take a long time, so you should carefully consider beforehand whether it is really worth it.

5. Further training and focus on energy management

In addition to the aforementioned training to become an Electrical Qualified Person (EuP), there are now numerous master classes aimed specifically at HVAC professionals who wish to carry out and support electrical engineering work. Training under section 7a of the Craft Code is time-consuming and expensive, but allows you to carry out more tasks than the simpler EuP training.

Overall, if you intend to offer larger projects involving heat pumps, solar systems, wall boxes and the like, it is advisable to focus on energy management in the craft business. For an SHK master’s degree, for example, the subjects «Energy Management», «Energy Technology» and «Renewable Energy» can be an ideal complement. Of course, the study requires a lot of time and is not necessarily recommended for everyone, but in particular cases it can make a difference in the company and guarantee an advantage over the competition.