What is the actual difference between training and competence?

Training is the structured approach to enhance someone’s knowledge, this usually requires completion of prerequisite courses or on the job training where a worker is given the knowledge needed to apply theory into practice. Usually it is the combination of both.

However, competency consists of a number of elements, of which training is only one. Others include skills, knowledge, experience appreciation and understanding of the task at hand, the surrounding environment, and a range of human factors such as behavioural safety and interpersonal communication. Clearly training and / or qualifications alone will not necessarily mean that a Worker is competent.