Knowledge and Competence
Competence is evidence, not a title
This element asks the erector to define the knowledge and skills needed for each task and to prove that people have them. Relevant tasks include layout, fit-up, bolting, welding, rigging, crane signaling, inspection, and supervision. Competence is usually built from education, training, experience, and demonstrated performance; a certificate alone is only one input. A practical competence matrix lists each task, the required qualification (for example, welder qualification to the applicable welding code, or bolting inspection training), the evidence held, and the evaluation date. Subcontractor personnel must be evaluated to the same standard.
Traps: candidates often equate "certified" with "competent for this task." A certified welder may not be qualified for the specific process, position, or thickness on the project. Another trap is relying on a training sign-in sheet as proof of ability; reviewers want evaluation of performance. Also watch for expired qualifications-welder qualification, crane operator certification, and inspection credentials have validity periods and scope limits.
Rule of thumb: for each person and task, ask "what evidence shows this person can do this work to the acceptance criterion, and when was it last verified?" Worked example: a bolting crew includes a new installer. The company checks the applicable bolting training record, assigns a qualified mentor for the first week, and documents a practical evaluation on a sample connection, including torque wrench use and marking. That record-not the roster-demonstrates competence. Where a task has no external license, the erector's own written evaluation and supervised experience fill the gap.