Navigating the Construction Industry: SMSTS vs. SSSTS Courses Explained

Navigating the Construction Industry: SMSTS vs. SSSTS Courses Explained

Are you on the brink of stepping into a site supervisor or manager role in the construction industry? Or perhaps you've been recommended to take either the SSSTS or SMSTS course?

Let's delve into the details of these two vital training courses and help you make an informed decision about your career path.

Understanding SMSTS - Site Manager Safety Training Scheme

The CITB Site Manager Safety Training Scheme, commonly known as SMSTS, is tailored for those involved in managing or planning construction sites. This comprehensive course addresses legal and regulatory requirements, equipping supervisors, project managers, and site managers with the skills to:

• Implement and manage health, safety, welfare, and environmental legislation
• Apply new guidance and industry best practices
• Clearly state duties and responsibilities related to health, safety, welfare, and the environment.

The course assessment includes a multiple-choice questionnaire, and continuous engagement with the group and course materials is part of the evaluation. Upon successful completion, you'll be awarded a certificate valid for five years, after which you can take the SMSTS refresher.

Understanding SSSTS - Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme

The Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) is aimed at supervisors, first-line managers, or those aspiring to such roles. This training enhances awareness of good health and safety leadership practices on construction sites. The course covers:

• Understanding health, safety, welfare, and environmental issues
• Grasping legal responsibilities as a first-line manager
• Recognising good and bad practices and responding appropriately
• Conducting risk assessments and site inductions.

This two-day training includes a multiple-choice paper assessment and expects interactive participation throughout. Upon successful completion, the SSSTS certificate is valid for five years, with the option to take the refresher course thereafter.

Choosing between SSSTS and SMSTS

• SSSTS: Ideal for supervisors, foremen, team leaders, or line managers, and those aspiring to such roles.
• SMSTS: Tailored for project leaders and site managers. Completion of the SSSTS course is not a prerequisite, but many choose to progress to SMSTS for career advancement.

We also offer refresher courses for both SSSTS and SMSTS. If your certificate is nearing expiration, consider enrolling in these courses to stay current with changes in legislation and methods.

Ensure you complete the refresher course before the five-year certificate expiration, as the grace period was removed a few years ago.

Embark on your journey to a safer, more knowledgeable construction career with MKC Training. Choose the course that aligns with your current role or future aspirations and keep your skills up to date with our refresher courses.

Your success is our priority.

Learn more about our health and safety courses.