HS&E SUP practice question: The supervisor's role (5 of 5)
E. Specialist: Supervisory A free question from our original HS&E SUP practice exam. Try it, then open the answer to see why each option is right or wrong.
You are chosen to become a supervisor. You know the job well but have never planned other people's work.
What does HSE say supervisors need?
Choose one answer.
AA. Nothing extra, as anyone can supervise
BB. Planning and communication skills, and hazard knowledge
CC. Only to be the best at the trade
DD. Only more years on site than anyone else in the gang, whatever their skills
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: B
A. Wrong: Wrong. Supervisors need the right skills and training.
B. Right: Right. HSE says supervisors need skills for supervisory activities (planning, communication, delegation) and a thorough understanding of local hazards and controls.
C. Wrong: Wrong. Trade skill helps, but supervising needs other skills too.
D. Wrong: Wrong. Experience matters, but so do planning and communication skills.
Explanation
Good supervisors know the hazards and controls, and can plan, communicate and delegate. They may need training for the role.