Competency Assessment in the Workplace: A Practical Guide
Competency assessment in the workplace examines whether a person has the knowledge, skills and practical capability required to perform defined responsibilities appropriately. Assessment should use relevant criteria and evidence rather than relying solely on course completion.
What Is Competency Assessment in the Workplace?
Competency assessment compares a person’s demonstrated capability with defined requirements for a role, activity or task.
Define the Required Competence First
Clarify the knowledge, skills, decisions and performance expected before selecting assessment methods. Requirements should reflect the actual responsibility being evaluated.
Knowledge
Determine whether the person understands relevant hazards, controls and requirements.
Skills
Examine whether required techniques or activities can be performed appropriately.
Application
Consider whether capability can be applied in realistic workplace conditions.
Use Appropriate Evidence
Evidence may include questions, demonstrations, workplace observation, work products or other relevant information. No single method is suitable for every competence requirement.
Address Identified Competence Gaps
Where assessment identifies gaps, determine whether further learning, supervised practice, experience or another intervention is required before reassessment.
