Who ultimately holds the responsibility for naming the Competent Person?

The responsibility for naming the Competent Person lies with the employer. In the context of construction safety regulations, particularly those enforced by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), a Competent Person is defined as someone who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions. This designation is essential in ensuring that safety measures are properly implemented.

Employers are tasked with the careful selection of individuals who meet the qualifications and possess the necessary experience and knowledge to fulfill the role effectively. This process involves assessing the qualifications of employees to ensure that the person named has the appropriate training, skills, and authority to enforce safety protocols on the job site.

While project managers, safety officers, and onsite teams might play significant roles in safety culture and practices, it is ultimately the employer who is responsible for the formal designation of the Competent Person. The employer must ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards, making this choice critical for overall site safety.