Does my business need a health and safety Competent Person?
Published by Thinking Freely Ltd · General guidance
UK employers must appoint one or more competent people to help them meet health and safety duties. This does not mean every business has to buy an external consultancy package.
Who can be the competent person?
The Health and Safety Executive advises employers to look first at suitable competence within their organisation. The appropriate level of knowledge, training and experience depends on the risks and complexity of the work.
When outside assistance is useful
- The business does not have adequate in-house knowledge for its activities and risks.
- Managers need help reviewing risk assessments, inspection findings or changes to operations.
- There is a need for independent practical advice, periodic visits or support with compliance arrangements.
- The business is growing or has specialist risks beyond the capability of existing staff.
What should the service actually deliver?
Agree the role, response arrangements, site involvement, records, escalation route and the work that remains with management. External advice supports the employer; it does not transfer the employer's legal duties to the consultant.
Read the HSE's guidance on appointing a competent person.
See Thinking Freely's Competent Person support or discuss your needs.