Important notice: Website update - 21st of November 2024

Coming soon - Please be aware that we're currently working on a new and improved website. We're working hard to resolve the final issues and bring you the new website as soon as possible.

Human factors briefing note no. 7 – Training and competence

Document options


EI Technical Partners get free access to publications. You will need to Login or Register here

  • Published: July 2011
  • REF/ISBN: 9780852936085-7
  • Edition: 2nd
  • Status: New

This document is freely available to all registered users of this site.

Training: Training helps people acquire the skills, knowledge and attitudes to make them competent in the health and safety aspects of their work. It includes formal off the job training, instruction to individuals and groups, and on the job coaching and counselling. Source: Reference 1.

‘SQEP’: The term ‘SQEP’ is used in industry to mean‘suitably qualified and experienced person’. SQEP may be considered as a criterion for competence. Also, ‘competence’ and ‘competency’ are both used to mean a measure of an employee’s knowledge, skill and experience.

Why training and competence?

Having competent staff is critical to running a safe operation. They should be competent in their day to day work but also in health and safety matters – for example, recognising hazards and risks at work. Training of personnel is a key factor in establishing a good safety culture.

There are many methods that can be applied to the key stages of establishing competence. Some will be more suitable than others to your particular needs. Training should not be used to try to overcome poor design elsewhere, for example, poor design of workplace, tools, equipment or procedures.

Human factors briefing notes - Resource pack includes the complete collection of briefing notes, contained in their own folder.

Members Benefits

Are you an EI Member? If yes, register/log in now to ensure you receive free access or discounts to EI publications.

If you are not a Member, why not join today and receive all of the benefits of EI Membership? EI Members are entitled to a 25% discount on most EI publications.