What is the role of a competent person on a construction site?

The role of a competent person on a construction site is primarily to identify and correct hazards in the work environment. This is a critical safety function that ensures the well-being of workers by actively evaluating the site for potential risks and taking appropriate measures to mitigate those risks. A competent person must have the necessary training, experience, and authority to address safety issues effectively; they understand relevant regulations, standards, and the specific job site conditions that may lead to hazards.

While supervising workers, maintaining inventory, and conducting safety training can be important duties on a construction site, they do not encompass the specific responsibilities defined for a competent person. The core focus of a competent person is hazard identification and correction, which is a crucial element of workplace safety regulations established by organizations such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration).