Physical Environment (HACP-PE)

About the HACP-PE Certification

The HACP-PE certification demonstrates an in-depth knowledge of regulations addressing the physical environment in acute care hospitals. Content addresses key regulations and national standards in Safety/Security, Hazardous Materials & Waste, Emergency Power, Life Safety/Fire Safety, Healthcare Facilities Code, Utilities, and Medical Equipment.

This certification is ideal for healthcare professionals whose roles involve accreditation readiness, regulatory compliance, and organizational quality.


Candidate Handbook

The Candidate Handbook provides detailed information about the HACP examination, including examination rules, scoring, administration policies, and recertification requirements. Candidates are encouraged to review the handbook to confirm current expectations and reference it as needed throughout the examination process.

HACP 2026 Applicant Handbook (pdf)

Examination Content Overview

The HACP examination consists of 120 multiple‑choice questions. Content is reviewed annually and updated as standards and regulations change. Exams are issued each January. If regulations change mid‑year, answers remain based on the standards in effect at the time the examination was issued.


Examination Content Breakdown

The HACP examination addresses key Physical Environment topics for hospitals. The specific content and distribution of questions for the examination appears below.

No. Topic Number of Questions # Approximate Percent of Examination Total % Exam
01.Security1210%
02.Hazardous Materials & Waste1613%
03.Emergency Power43%
04.Life Safety / Fire Safety4236%
05.Healthcare Facilities Code2823%
06.Utility & Medical Equipment43%
07.General Safety1412%

Preparing for the HACP exam?

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How the Examination Is Administered

The HACP examination is delivered online, allowing candidates to test at their convenience from home or work. CIHQ partners with Exam Builder, a leading provider of secure, web‑based certification exams.


Sample Examination Questions

Review the sample questions below. Click “Show Answer” to reveal the correct response.

1. How often are ground fault circuit interrupters tested?

  1. Daily
  2. Annually
  3. Monthly
  4. Quarterly
  5. Semiannually
C. Monthly

2. How often are water-flow devices required to be tested?

  1. Weekly
  2. Monthly
  3. Quarterly
  4. Semiannually
  5. Annually
D. Semiannually

3. Which of the following is NOT an example of a nonsleeping suite?

  1. Emergency Room
  2. PACU
  3. Operating Room
  4. Intensive Care Unit
  5. All of the above
D. Intensive Care Unit

Continuing your HACP journey? Working toward recertification?

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Begin your path toward earning the HACP credential.

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