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SMSTS Course Complete Guide for Site Managers Requirements, Cost, and Outcomes

The SMSTS Course is the most important safety qualification for site managers in the UK construction industry. It provides the knowledge, leadership skills, and legal understanding required to manage construction sites safely and comply with industry regulations. If you are responsible for managing projects, supervising teams, or ensuring site safety, the SMSTS Course is essential for both compliance and career progression.

SMSTS stands for Site Management Safety Training Scheme. It is developed by CITB and is widely recognised across construction, infrastructure, and engineering sectors. The course focuses on how site managers plan work safely, control risks, manage contractors, and ensure legal compliance. CITB explains that SMSTS is designed for site managers and those responsible for planning, organising, monitoring, controlling, and administering construction work safely.

What the SMSTS course is and why it exists

Construction sites are complex environments where multiple contractors, hazards, and operations exist simultaneously. The SMSTS course exists to ensure that site managers have the competence to manage these risks effectively. It teaches how to build safety into planning, supervision, and site operations.

Unlike entry level courses, SMSTS focuses on management responsibility. It prepares you to lead safety systems, enforce standards, and protect workers and projects from preventable incidents.

If you want to view course dates, locations, and pricing, visit the Target Zero SMSTS Course page.

Who needs the SMSTS course

The SMSTS course is designed for professionals responsible for managing construction work. It is essential for anyone who has responsibility for site safety, planning work activities, or managing teams.

Typical roles include

Site managers responsible for project delivery
Project managers overseeing construction operations
Construction managers responsible for multiple sites
Senior supervisors progressing into management roles
Business owners managing construction projects
Professionals moving into health and safety leadership roles

Many professionals complete SSSTS training first, then progress to SMSTS when they move into management positions.

SMSTS course duration and structure

The SMSTS course is typically delivered over five days. It can be completed in consecutive days, day release format, or weekend sessions depending on availability and learning preferences.

The course includes both theory and practical application. It focuses on real site scenarios and teaches how to manage risks effectively.

Key topics covered

Health and safety law and regulations
Risk assessments and method statements
Managing contractors and site activities
Working at height and construction hazards
Site inspections and incident prevention
Leadership and safety management systems

These topics prepare site managers to manage projects safely and maintain compliance with industry standards.

SMSTS course cost and pricing explained

The cost of the SMSTS course typically ranges between £399 and £489 plus VAT depending on delivery format and location.

Pricing varies based on:

Online versus classroom delivery
Training provider and location
Course schedule format
Demand and availability

Although there is an upfront cost, the long term value is significant. The qualification improves employability, career progression, and competence.

SMSTS exam and assessment explained

The SMSTS course includes an assessment designed to confirm your understanding of site safety management. The assessment tests your ability to apply safety knowledge in practical scenarios.

The assessment includes:

Multiple choice questions
Scenario based safety questions
Practical safety management knowledge

Preparation improves performance. Practising with Mock Tests strengthens your understanding and improves confidence.

How long the SMSTS certificate lasts

The SMSTS certificate is valid for five years. To maintain certification, site managers must complete the SMSTS Refresher course before the certificate expires.

Renewing on time ensures continued compliance and prevents disruption to your career or site access.

You can book renewal training here: SMSTS Course and Refresher.