Competent Persons
Issue #69
August, 25, 2008
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) uses the term “competent persons” in many standards across various industries. Though the term is not specifically defined, this person is knowledgeable in applicable standards, and is capable of identifying workplace hazards by way of training and/or experience. This individual is also designated by the employer as the “competent person” and has the authority to take appropriate actions to rectify situations. Here are some frequently asked questions about the importance of “competent persons.”
• What is a "competent person(s) role?
They identify existing hazards, predict potential hazards have the authorization to eliminate those hazards.
• What does an individual need to be a "competent person(s)"?
Knowledge, ability, education, skill, training, experience and the authority to act
• Who designates a person to this role?
The employer is responsible for placing someone in the role of a "competent person". Therefore, he/she must determine the competency of this person based on the guidelines outlined by OSHA.
• Are "competent persons" required to remain on a jobsite?
No. The individual must complete all of their duties and may be able to do this away from the jobsite. "Competent persons" create a work environment and may not need to alter the actual jobsite to do so.
• Is a "competent person" always a supervisor?
No. the individual may not always be a supervisor but must have authority over others when dealing with hazards. The supervisor should not countermand the "competent person(s)" directives.