What should be done to ensure safety during plumbing inspections?

Ensuring safety during plumbing inspections involves several critical practices, and one of the most important is shutting off the water supply and checking for leaks. This step is crucial because it minimizes the risk of water damage, which can occur when fixtures or pipes are inspected under pressure. By turning off the water supply, inspectors can conduct a thorough evaluation of the plumbing systems without the hazard of pressurized water escaping from faulty fittings or compromised pipes.

Additionally, checking for leaks when the system is depressurized allows the inspector to identify any potential issues that could lead to more significant problems, such as mold growth, structural damage, or even safety hazards due to water pooling in unwanted areas. This preventive measure not only enhances site safety for the inspector but also protects the integrity of the property being inspected.

The other options suggest practices that do not align with safety protocols. Using less accurate tools can lead to misdiagnosing issues, not wearing protective gear increases vulnerability to injuries, and rushing through visual inspections can easily overlook critical problems that need attention. Each of these practices compromises safety and could result in disaster during or after the inspection.