A Competent Person is an OSHA-designated individual who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the workplace and has the authority to take immediate corrective action to eliminate those hazards.
According to OSHA, he must not only recognize unsafe conditions but must also be authorized to make safety decisions without delay.
OSHA Definition of a Competent Person
Competent Person:
“One who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings, or working conditions that are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has the authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.”
Source: OSHA
This definition applies across multiple industries, including construction, manufacturing, oil & gas, rail, and bulk material handling.
What Does a Competent Person Do?
He plays a critical role in workplace safety by actively monitoring job sites and work conditions. Their responsibilities typically include:
- Identifying unsafe or hazardous conditions
- Recognizing predictable risks before incidents occur
- Stopping work if dangerous conditions are present
- Implementing immediate corrective actions
- Ensuring OSHA safety requirements are followed
Because of this authority, a competent person helps prevent injuries, equipment damage, and regulatory violations.
Competent Person vs Qualified Person
While the terms are often confused, OSHA treats them differently:
- Competent Person – Identifies hazards and has authority to fix them immediately
- Qualified Person – Has knowledge or credentials but may not have authority to enforce changes
In many safety-critical environments, having a designated competent person on site is mandatory.
Why a Competent Person Is Important
The presence of a competent person helps organizations:
- Reduce workplace accidents and injuries
- Maintain OSHA compliance
- Improve job site awareness
- Respond quickly to unsafe conditions
- Avoid costly fines and shutdowns
In high-risk operations such as elevated work, confined spaces, or fuel handling, a competent person is essential.
Industries That Require a Competent Person
OSHA commonly requires or references a CP in:
- Fall protection and elevated access work
- Construction and scaffolding operations
- Storage tank access and confined spaces
- Railcar and truck loading operations
- Industrial maintenance and inspections
He is someone who can identify workplace hazards and has the authority to correct them immediately.
OSHA does not require a specific certificate, but proper training and employer authorization are required.
No. A supervisor must be trained and formally authorized to act as a competent person.
Yes. Large or complex sites often designate multiple competent persons for different operations.
To ensure hazards are identified and corrected before they cause injuries or violations.
