Who is defined by OSHA as capable of identifying hazards in the workplace?

The definition provided by OSHA for someone who is capable of identifying hazards in the workplace aligns with the role of an authorized person. An authorized person is typically someone who has been given the authority to perform specific tasks or procedures related to safety and operations, often involving an understanding of the processes and potential hazards that may be present in a work environment. This designation often includes training and experience that equip them to recognize and address workplace hazards effectively.

In contrast, while a certified rigger and a qualified professional have their own important roles and expertise, their definitions may not encompass the broad capability for hazard identification in all contexts. A safety officer certainly plays a significant part in workplace safety but may not be explicitly defined by OSHA as the primary individual responsible for identifying hazards as compared to an authorized person. Thus, the clarity and intent of OSHA’s guidelines make it evident that the role of an authorized person is focused on hazard identification and control within the scope of their authority.