SSSTS to SSSTS Refresher Pathway Explained January 2026

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Construction supervisors play a vital role in maintaining safe working environments across sites in the United Kingdom. As 2026 begins, more contractors, principal contractors and clients are actively requiring evidence of competence for anyone supervising labour, trades or site activities. One of the most recognised routes to demonstrating this competence is through the CITB Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme known as SSSTS, followed by the SSSTS Refresher to maintain recognition and legal compliance.

At Target Zero we train thousands of delegates each year across the supervisor and management pathways. In this guide we explain the complete SSSTS supervisor journey, who needs each course, when to take them and how they align with real workplace responsibilities in January 2026.

Understanding the SSSTS Supervisor Role in 2026

Supervisors are responsible for monitoring activities, leading toolbox talks, influencing behaviour and ensuring safety standards are followed on site. They act as a link between site operatives and senior management, making it essential for them to understand legal frameworks, safety responsibilities and effective communication.

Common tasks that supervisors handle include:

Delivering toolbox talks and safety briefings
Monitoring work activities and site conditions
Supporting risk assessments and method statements
Reporting unsafe behaviours and near misses
Coordinating small teams or trades working in sequence
Ensuring operatives use correct personal protective equipment
Supporting behavioural safety culture

With new regulations, client expectations and principal contractor demands shaping 2026, structured training is becoming a requirement rather than a nice to have.

Stage One: SSSTS for New and Developing Supervisors

The SSSTS Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme is the starting point for anyone stepping into supervision or preparing to lead on health and safety within teams.

It is designed for individuals such as:

Gang leaders
Team leaders
Chargehands
Working forepersons
New supervisors
Operatives preparing to step up

The SSSTS course gives delegates a clear understanding of supervisory responsibilities, legal expectations, communication techniques and behavioural change strategies that support safe site cultures.

For full course details or to book your place visit:
CITB SSSTS Course

The SSSTS course gives delegates a clear understanding of supervisory responsibilities, legal expectations,

Certification Validity and the Renewal Cycle

Once completed, SSSTS certification remains valid for five years. During this period supervisors are recognised as having undertaken formal training in safety leadership and legal frameworks.

However, as regulations and site standards evolve, CITB requires supervisors to refresh their training before the certificate expires. This ensures supervisors remain up to date with changes in law, guidance and construction culture.

Stage Two: SSSTS Refresher for Active Supervisors

The SSSTS Refresher is a one day update course designed for supervisors who have already completed the full SSSTS programme and need to renew their certification before expiry.

The refresher allows supervisors to:

Renew their SSSTS certification for another five years
Update their knowledge of legal requirements
Refresh their approach to toolbox talks and briefings
Strengthen behavioural safety leadership
Demonstrate continued professional competence

For current supervisors or those working on long term contracts, the SSSTS Refresher is an essential step in maintaining professional recognition.

For full course details or to book your renewal visit:
SSSTS Refresher Course

Common Supervisor Questions Answered January 2026

Do I need SSSTS before I take the SSSTS Refresher
Yes. The refresher is only for supervisors who hold a valid SSSTS certificate.

Can I take the refresher after my certificate has expired
In most cases the refresher must be taken before the certificate expiry date. If it has expired, delegates typically need to repeat the full SSSTS course.

Does SSSTS help with career progression
Yes. SSSTS supports supervisors moving into management roles and can be combined with SMSTS or NVQs for further development.

Is SSSTS recognised by principal contractors
Yes. SSSTS is widely recognised across all major contractors and is often required for supervisory positions.

When Should Supervisors Take SSSTS or the Refresher

To help you decide which course you need in January 2026, use this simple guide:

Choose SSSTS if you are:

Moving into supervision for the first time
Leading a team or trade group on site
Delivering toolbox talks or briefings
Supervising without formal training

Choose SSSTS Refresher if you are:

Already holding an SSSTS certificate from the past five years
Renewing for contract requirements
Maintaining compliance for your employer
Continuing in an active supervisory role

The Supervisor Pathway in Practice

A typical SSSTS journey looks like this:

Step 1: Operative or advanced labour role
Step 2: Promotion or movement into team leadership
Step 3: Complete SSSTS to gain recognised supervisory competence
Step 4: Work as a site supervisor supporting site management
Step 5: Renew with SSSTS Refresher every five years to maintain recognition

Supervisors seeking further progression often move towards SMSTS or LVL 3 NVQs in occupational work supervision, both of which are strong development options.

Why Supervisors Choose Target Zero

Target Zero delivers SSSTS and SSSTS Refresher training across the United Kingdom with both online and classroom formats. Delegates benefit from experienced trainers, structured learning environments and clear pathways into further qualifications.

Our service supports:

Individuals seeking training for new roles
Employees needing renewal for compliance
Contractors preparing for new projects
Companies managing workforce upskilling

By choosing Target Zero you secure reliable certification, expert instruction and continued development support across the Site Safety Plus framework.

Book Your SSSTS or SSSTS Refresher in January 2026

If you are stepping into supervision or approaching renewal deadlines in 2026, now is the time to secure your training. Supervisors remain central to safe, compliant and efficient construction projects and the SSSTS pathway provides the structured training needed to support these responsibilities.

To view course dates or book directly use the links below:

CITB SSSTS Training Courses
SSSTS Refresher Online Courses

Our team can also advise on progression, CSCS requirements and additional training options for long term career planning.

Why choose Target Zero?