What is a Competency Framework and How Does it Support a Safe Work Environment?

Today’s workplaces are complex and dynamic, making it harder than ever to keep on top of the skills and knowledge your people need. A competency framework is a valuable tool for doing just that. It outlines the must-have skills and knowledge workers across the organisation need to perform their jobs. And it’s crucial for organisations that value health and safety. 
Let’s find out more.

Understanding competency frameworks

A competency framework sets out the specific skills, knowledge and certifications required to perform various roles within the organisation. It makes clear your expectations and ensures everyone meets the same standards. A competency framework not only helps you identify training gaps more effectively, but it also better informs your recruitment and hiring selections.  
Competency frameworks may differ in the details, but most share the following key components: 

• Core competencies: The fundamental skills every employee is expected to have, including things like basic maths and literacy, teamwork, communication skills and problem-solving abilities. 
• Role-specific competencies: The knowledge and skills specific to the job. For example, among other skills, a forklift operator must have a forklift operator certificate and knowledge of the operator’s code of practice. 
• Performance indicators:  These are the signs that show when someone has mastered or is working towards a competency. 
  
• Assessment criteria: Form the basis of ongoing performance management, monitoring and evaluation. ​

Supporting safe working with competency frameworks

When it comes to safer working environments, competency frameworks bring plenty of benefits to the table. Here are the headlines: 

• Clear expectations: Employees understand what’s required and the standards they are expected to meet. 
  
• Targeted training: Competency frameworks mean you can more easily identify skills gaps and areas for improvement. 
  
• Improved recruitment: Use the framework to inform your recruitment decisions and minimise the risk of hiring an unqualified or underqualified candidate. 
  
• Performance management: Competency frameworks also provide a basis for ongoing performance monitoring and evaluation. They help you more easily identify any shortcomings that may impact safety. 
  
• Developing a safety culture: Finally, a competency framework that defines and prioritises safety-related competencies highlights to employees the importance of safety in their daily work. This awareness helps promote a culture where safety is valued. 
  

CheckSafe’s competency management software

The benefits of competency frameworks to workplace safety are undeniable. If you’re serious about health and safety at work, implementing competency frameworks will ensure you’re better placed to maintain high standards. 
Ready to take the next step but unsure where to start? CheckSafe's easy-to-use competency management software is a great place to start. Our fully customisable software allows you to manage competencies, assessments and skills matrices in one central platform. 
With automated workflows and real-time visibility, CheckSafe helps create a safer, more compliant, and engaged workforce. Sign up for a free demo to find out more.