competent person is someone with sufficient knowledge and experience- it's not always a level of qualification that will decide the right person. I would look at the work being conducted and the complexity of the project. When I worked in University Accommodation we didn't have a site manager on site at all times, though personally for the project and the man power I personally think there should have been. I hope someone wit6h a better understanding of CDM can point you in the right direction.

Jodie

Still does not say that s/he needs to be on site all of the time. This question is for your managers to decide ultimately and the level of visits if that is the chosen route. Note that there is also the SSsTS verson of the managers course for forepersons and other supervisors, this could be useful for supervisors undertaking a role under the general supervision of a manager.