Qualified, Authorized, Designated, or Competent?

Question 1

Designated Person

Answer 1

A person assigned by the employer to perform a specific type of duty or to be at a specific location at the job site.

Question 2

Qualified Person

Answer 2

A person who is one who - by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or by extensive knowledge, training, and experience - has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve problems of the subject or project.

Question 3

Competent Person

Answer 3

A competent person is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions that are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees and has the authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

Question 4

Authorized Person

Answer 4

An Authorized Person is someone approved by the employer to perform a specific type of duty or to be at specific location at the job site (see OSHA 1926.32 - Definitions Safety and Health Regulations for Construction).