Health & Safety Competent Person

A competent person in health and safety is an individual who possesses the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to effectively manage health and safety matters.

The responsibility of appointing a competent person to take charge of health and safety lies with those in positions of authority within an organisation. It is the duty of employers, business owners, or project managers to recognise the importance of health and safety and to select a competent person who possesses the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience.

A health and safety competent person is essential for several reasons. Firstly, having a competent person in place ensures the well-being and safety of everyone involved, including employees, visitors, and stakeholders. By employing a competent person, organisations can proactively identify potential risks, implement appropriate control measures, and ensure compliance with legal requirements. Additionally, a competent person provides guidance and support to employees, establishes effective safety policies and procedures, conducts regular inspections and audits, and fosters a culture of safety within the organisation.

The requirements for a competent person in health and safety are as follows:

1. Applicable knowledge: A competent person must possess knowledge that can be effectively applied in practical, real-life situations. This knowledge should encompass a wide range of health and safety aspects relevant to the specific industry and workplace.
2. Skills and technical ability: The competent person should possess skills and technical expertise to develop effective solutions to health and safety problems. They should be able to assess risks, devise appropriate control measures, and implement them efficiently.
3. Practical experience: Practical experience is invaluable in building competence. A competent person should have practical experience in managing health and safety in various workplace scenarios. This experience helps them understand the challenges and develop effective strategies to ensure safety.
4. Familiarity with the organization and sector: The competent person should be familiar with the specific organization, its work processes, and the sector in which it operates. This familiarity allows them to understand the unique hazards and risks associated with the industry and tailor health and safety measures accordingly.
5. Authority and influence: A competent person should have the authority to promptly address and correct any hazards they identify. They should also possess the ability to influence relevant stakeholders to take necessary actions to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with health and safety requirements.

The level of competence required may vary depending on the complexity of the situation and the specific needs of the organization. Industries that involve complex work or operate within highly regulated sectors typically demand higher levels of training, knowledge, experience, and problem-solving abilities from their competent person.

At TransAtlantic Safety, we understand the significance of these requirements and ensure that our health and safety consultants possess the necessary qualifications, experience, and expertise to fulfil the role of a competent person effectively.