The construction industry continues to face high rates of workplace injuries and fatalities in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 173,200 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported in construction during 2023. In the same year, 1,075 construction-related fatalities were recorded under the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI).

These figures show the risks of hazards such as falls, trench collapses, and struck-by incidents. OSHA requires a Competent Person in Construction to identify and control these hazards on the job site.

Without proper oversight, these hazards can lead to severe injuries, fatalities, and costly project delays. That’s why a competent person is not only the OSHA requirement but also a practical way to protect workers, improve job site safety, and prevent penalties.

Training for Competent Persons

To become a competent person, training is recommended to build a strong understanding of OSHA regulations and site-specific hazards. Individuals can enroll in Competent Person for Construction Training to learn OSHA standards and workplace safety practices required for this role.

Many supervisors and workers preparing for this responsibility also take the OSHA 30-Hour Construction Training, which covers hazard identification, fall protection, scaffolding safety, and other high-risk areas. This course provides thorough knowledge of workplace safety and OSHA standards.

Competent Person Training at OSHA Training School

At OSHA Training School, the Competent Person for Construction course helps workers and supervisors learn:

• What it means to be a competent person.
• The responsibilities involved on a construction site.
• How to identify hazards and take corrective action.
• How to maintain compliance with OSHA regulations.

The training is designed for construction workers preparing to step into this role, as well as supervisors who assign competent persons to oversee site safety.

Upon completion, individuals receive a certificate showing their knowledge of competent person responsibilities and OSHA safety requirements.

Conclusion

Construction work will always have risks, but many injuries and fatalities can be prevented with the right oversight. A competent person plays a key role in keeping job sites safe, spotting hazards early, and making sure OSHA rules are followed. With the right training, workers and supervisors can take on this responsibility and help create safer construction sites.