Starting with the statement in the Management Of Health And Safety At Work Regulations 1999, it is clear that the key elements of competence are:
- sufficient and appropriate training for the subject and/or task in hand (i.e. theoretical and practical learning and knowledge, preferably including an assessment to determine whether the level of understanding for the subject has been adequately demonstrated);
- sufficient experience and/or knowledge in all reasonably foreseeable situations concerning the task in hand (i.e. practical understanding of the physical elements and cultural influences and how they can affect the safety aspects of working methods); and
- other qualities that can have a direct bearing on the safe completion of a task in a potentially wide variety of workplace and work activity conditions and circumstances (e.g. aspects of the person’s attitude, confidence, presence and reaction to events and/or situations). This can include:
- leadership qualities;
- aptitude and ability to apply knowledge;
- adherence to safe working practices;
- working within limits of knowledge;
- being ready for the unexpected; and
- knowing the consequences of unsafe activities.
Competence is related to the task. This means that a person who is competent to carry out a specific task will not necessarily be competent to carry out other tasks.
The development of competence is an ongoing process. Individuals will develop their competence through experience in the job and through training, which is part of ‘life long learning’.
Professionals such as designers, engineers, and safety and health practitioners should be signed up to a continuing professional development (CPD) programme either through their company or professional institution. This will allow them to remain ‘up-to-date’ with changes in legislation and professional practice.
Equally, machine operators and others who work in a manufacturing environment should also receive regular training updates to ensure their knowledge matches any changes in work equipment or working practices.
HSE's Human Factors Briefing Note outlines a competency management system which may help you, depending on the hazards and levels of risk in your business.