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A “Competent Person” is defined by OSHA as someone who can identify existing and predictable hazards in the workplace and has the authority to take immediate corrective measures to eliminate them. In practice, this means they must have the necessary training, experience, and authorization to ensure safety compliance.
OSHA Standard [29 CFR 1926.32(f)]: A competent person is “one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.”
| Aspect | Competent Person | Qualified Person |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Safety hazard recognition & correction | Technical expertise in a specific task |
| Authority | Can enforce corrective measures | May design or approve work but not necessarily enforce |
| Basis | Training + experience + authority | Credentials, degrees, or specialized training |
| Example | Site supervisor stopping unsafe scaffolding use | Engineer certifying scaffold design |
In short: A Competent Person is not just knowledgeable but also empowered to act. This combination of expertise and authority makes them essential for maintaining workplace safety and compliance. Would you like me to also outline specific OSHA standards that require a competent person (e.g., scaffolding, excavation, trenching)?
Course Content
Competent Person
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Competent Person
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Definition
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Objectives
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Competent Person?
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OSHA Definition
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What makes a person “competent?”
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Who designates a competent person?
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What if I hire competent persons?
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Does the competent person have to be on site?
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If they don’t have to be on site, how do they do their jobs?
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Does a competent person have to be a supervisor?
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Summary
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Thank You
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