When it comes to workplace safety, especially in construction or industrial environments, understanding OSHA's terminology around job roles is critical. Employers are required to designate roles like “qualified,” “competent,” “authorized,” or “certified” based on an employee’s credentials and capabilities. But two of the most commonly misunderstood roles are qualified and competent persons.
What Is a Qualified Person?
As defined in OSHA regulation 1926.32(m), a qualified person is someone who has earned a recognized degree, certification, or possesses professional credentials—and has demonstrated the ability to solve specific job-related problems through training, education, and experience. This individual is typically skilled in technical aspects of the work and is capable of performing tasks that require a specialized level of expertise.
What Is a Competent Person?
According to OSHA 1926.32(f), a competent person is someone who can identify unsafe conditions or potential hazards in the work environment and has the authority to take immediate action to correct them. The key distinction here is authorization—this person must not only recognize dangers but must also be empowered to address them.
Why the Distinction Matters
Failing to assign a competent person can lead to serious legal and safety consequences. In recent OSHA enforcement cases, companies have faced steep fines for not having someone on-site who could recognize and correct dangerous situations—such as trenching violations or fall hazards. Having the right person in place isn’t just about compliance; it can prevent injuries and even save lives.
Best Practices
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Always designate a competent person for each job site—and clearly communicate who that is to your crew.
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Make sure this individual is fully trained and has the authority to act when safety concerns arise.
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Understand that a competent person is different from a qualified person. While one may have deep technical knowledge, the other must be able to make real-time safety decisions.
If OSHA conducts a surprise inspection, they’ll want to speak with the competent person. Choose this representative carefully—it reflects your company’s commitment to safety and compliance.
Support for Your Safety Roles
At Dukel Safety, we work with both qualified and competent professionals to simplify the process of sourcing safety equipment. Our knowledgeable team is ready to assist with product recommendations, compliance support, and on-site visits.
Need hands-on support? Our mobile service teams cover the East Coast, West Coast, and Midwest. Let us visit your facility to better understand your needs and help ensure your team is fully equipped and protected.
