Competence
Plain-language summary
Making sure everyone whose work affects safety is genuinely trained and capable, and keeping proof of it.
What the clause is really asking
An untrained worker on a dangerous machine is a hazard to themselves and others. The clause requires you to define the competence needed for OH&S-affecting roles, ensure people have it through training, experience or qualification, and act when there is a gap. The intent is real capability, not just attendance at a course, especially for high-risk tasks.
What auditors look for
Auditors pick a worker doing a hazardous task and ask for proof they are competent, then sometimes test whether the person can actually explain the safe method. They check competence requirements are defined for risky roles such as forklift operation, working at height, lockout or first aid, and that refresher training is current. They look for the action taken when a gap is found.
Typical evidence
Competence requirements per role; training records and certificates; licences for regulated tasks such as forklift or crane; competence assessments or practical sign-offs; refresher training schedule; records of actions taken to close gaps.
How to comply — recommendations
Define what competence each safety-critical role needs and keep training records and certificates that prove it. For high-risk tasks make sure legally required licences and refreshers are current. Verify competence in practice, not just by a signed attendance sheet, especially after training. When you find someone lacks needed skills, train them or restrict the task until they are competent, and record it.
Common nonconformities
Workers on hazardous tasks with no competence records; expired licences or refresher training for high-risk work; attendance recorded but no evidence the person can actually do the task safely; competence requirements never defined for risky roles; gaps identified but no action taken.
Related clauses
ISO 9001 7.2; ISO 14001 7.2
Qlause provides interpretive guidance only and is not a substitute for the standard. Refer to your licensed copy of the relevant standard for the authoritative text.