In Plain English
Quick Answer
A worker with formal credentials or expert knowledge required to design or inspect specific safety systems.
Definition
Definition
A qualified person, as defined by OSHA, is one who by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, work, or project. The distinction from a competent person is that a qualified person's designation is based on formal credentials or demonstrated expertise rather than authority to make corrections.
Context
Why It Matters in Bidding
When a project's scope includes engineered systems like scaffolding design, excavation support, or rigging plans, the estimator must price in a credentialed qualified person rather than assuming field crews can self-perform. Misjudging this drives general conditions, sub markups, and schedule, and a bid that ignores the requirement risks being deemed non-responsive or losing money once the work is awarded.
Example
Example
Reviewing a hospital addition's spec section on shoring, an estimator carries a line item for a licensed PE to serve as the qualified person designing the excavation protective system before the bid is submitted.
See Also
Related Terms
FAQ
Questions Contractors Ask
How does a qualified person requirement affect a bid?
It adds direct cost for credentialed personnel or a specialty sub, often a licensed engineer for design work. Estimators should confirm whether the requirement is satisfied in-house or must be subcontracted, then carry the labor, fees, and any associated insurance in general conditions so the number survives scope review.
Can the same individual be both a competent person and a qualified person?
Yes, if that individual holds the credentials or demonstrated expertise for the qualified role and also has employer authority to correct hazards. Many superintendents wear both hats, but engineered design tasks, such as fall-protection anchorage or shoring, typically demand the formal qualification regardless of field authority.
Where do specs typically call out a qualified person?
Look in Division 01 general requirements and trade sections covering excavation, scaffolding, cranes and rigging, fall protection, and electrical work. Addenda may add or clarify these duties, so estimators should re-scope after each addendum to capture any new credentialed labor before locking in the bid price.
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