First of all, let’s discuss what a competent person actually is. The term ‘competent person’ has been defined by the HSE as someone “who has sufficient training and experience or knowledge and other qualities that allow them to assist you properly”. What does that mean? This is someone who has the right amount of skills and know-how in order to properly meet your health and safety responsibilities. The ability and knowledge of the individual should match the size and scale of the health and safety needs of the company.
What are the roles and responsibilities?
The competent person recognises the potential risks and safety hazards that could cause harm to workers. Therefore this enables them to put proper controls in place that protect the workers.
Essentially, this is an individual appointed by the employer to minimise all of the health and safety risks in the workplace. The ‘workplace’ is different in pretty much every company, but a competent person must be in place, whether it’s an office or a construction site.
Do I need a competent person in place?
It is a legal requirement to have a competent person (or persons) in place. No matter the size of the company, one must be appointed in order to meet legal duties. This means that it is imperative that one be assigned.
Who should I appoint? There are a few options: one or more of your workers, yourself, or outsourcing it to a third party. What’s important is that the appointed party has the ability and competence to match the needs of the company. This person may be found within your organisation. However, if there is nobody in the organisation that matches this criteria, you can use a consultant. However, managing health and safety is still the legal duty of the employer. If you are in need of a competent person, then click here.