On the Difference between Competency and Qualification
In the workplace, it's important but not always easy to differentiate between competency and qualification. Competency is about the actual skills and knowledge a person has and how well they can use them in a job. It's all about putting abilities into action.
On the other hand, qualification focuses on the formal education or training someone has, which may not always mean they can perform well in real-world situations. While qualifications show some theoretical knowledge, competency is more about practical skills and job performance. Having qualifications is a good start, but having the right competencies is essential for success at work and achieving goals.
ISO Requirements…
Organisations must ensure staff members possess the necessary competency to perform their assigned tasks effectively. This involves identifying the required skills, knowledge, and experience for each role, providing appropriate training and resources to staff, and regularly evaluating and verifying their competence. By meeting these requirements, organisations can improve performance, minimise errors, and enhance overall efficiency. Staff competency is a critical element in achieving compliance with ISO standards and maintaining high-quality products and services.
How can you ensure competency in your business?
There are a few common strategies businesses in the UK use to check they are compliant.
Job analysis and clear role descriptions are essential to define the necessary skills and qualifications.
Rigorous recruitment processes, including assessments and interviews, can help identify suitable candidates.
Ongoing training and development programs are crucial to maintain and enhance employee capabilities.
Performance reviews and regular feedback mechanisms allow for identification of skill gaps and development opportunities.
Implementing mentorship programs and fostering a culture of continuous learning can further support employee growth and competence.
Don’t forget your Legal Requirements!
Recent Prosecution in the UK Due to Lack of Proper Employee Training
In March 2023, concrete pumping subcontractor, Singh Will Mix It Ltd, was fined £175,000 and ordered to pay £75,722 in court costs after an employee suffered serious head injuries that saw him hospitalised for seven months. The employee, who was 35 at the time, was working at a domestic property on Elmfield Avenue, Crouch End, London. A concrete pump operator was cleaning the pump’s hose after it had been used to pump concrete for a ground floor extension at the property. As the pump operator was doing this, the pump became blocked, leading to a sudden release of pressure and causing the hose to whip and strike the worker in the head. It was discovered that the pump operator was not qualified to operate the machine.
The injured worker spent seven months in hospital following the incident, suffered brain trauma, and continues to have difficulties with his speech, memory and movement.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found Singh Will Mix It Ltd failed to ensure workers had the necessary skills, knowledge, experience and training to carry out the work and they failed to have appropriate health and safety systems in place to carry out the work safely.
