#competent – what does that mean?

In the Alberta OH&S Act, “competent” in relation to a person means adequately qualified, suitably trained and with sufficient experience to safely perform work without supervision or with only a minimal degree of supervision.

#DidYouKnow – the word “competent” is stated in the Alberta OH&S Code 87 times. Now you do.

So as safety professionals, when we talk about the importance of ensuring personnel are deemed competent, this is why. If your organization does not have competency evaluations for your workforce, reach out to us. We can help. Check out gotsafety.ca for more information!

Examples of where the Code specifically states competent:

Definitions: “direct supervision” means that a competent worker

(a) is personally and visually supervising the worker who is not competent, and

(b) is able to communicate readily and clearly with the worker who is not competent;

Confined Space:

47(3) An employer must ensure that, before a worker enters a confined space, an entry permit is properly completed, signed by a competent person and a copy kept readily available.
Hoisting & Lifting Equipment:

64(1) An employer must ensure that a lifting device is only operated by a competent worker authorized by the employer to operate the equipment. 64(3) No worker other than the competent worker authorized by the employer may operate a lifting device.

Signallers (i.e, riggers and spotters)

191(1) If this Code requires signals to be given by a designated signaller, an employer must designate a competent worker to give the signals.

Powered Mobile Equipment

256(1) A worker must not operate powered mobile equipment unless the worker (a) is trained to safely operate the equipment, (b) has demonstrated competency in operating the equipment to a competent worker designated by the employer

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