SMSTS Course vs SSSTS Course – Which One Do You Need

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When You Book Multiple Courses.

Choosing between the SMSTS Course and SSSTS Course can determine how fast you progress in your construction career. Whether you are stepping into a supervisory role or aiming to become a site manager, this guide explains the difference between both courses and helps you decide which one you should book this November 2025.

At Target Zero Training, we deliver both the SMSTS Course and the SSSTS Course across the UK, with online and classroom options. You can view available dates and book here:

SMSTS Course: https://targetzerotraining.co.uk/citb-smsts-training-courses-2/
SSSTS Course: https://targetzerotraining.co.uk/citb-sssts-training-courses/
Mock Tests for Revision: https://targetzerotraining.co.uk/mock-tests/

What Is the SMSTS Course?

The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is designed for site managers, project leads, senior supervisors and anyone responsible for planning, organising and overseeing construction work.
It covers:

Construction regulations and legal responsibilities
Planning safe systems of work
Risk assessments and method statements
Environmental management
CDM Regulations
Health and safety culture and leadership

Book here: https://targetzerotraining.co.uk/citb-smsts-training-courses-2/

What Is the SSSTS Course?

The Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) is for those who supervise smaller teams or are stepping up from operative to supervisory level.
It includes:

Supervisor responsibilities for health and safety
Toolbox talks and briefings
Accident reporting procedures
Risk control and monitoring on site
Behavioural safety and communication

Book here: https://targetzerotraining.co.uk/citb-sssts-training-courses/

SMSTS vs SSSTS – Key Differences

Feature	SMSTS Course	SSSTS Course
Ideal for	Site managers and senior supervisors	Team leaders and supervisors
Course length	5 days	2 days
Level of responsibility	Management and project control	Supervising workers
Content depth	Law, regulations, leadership, planning work	Monitoring tasks and ensuring safety
Required for	Managing sites, running projects, bidding contracts	Supervising small teams or shifts
Renewal	Every 5 years	Every 5 years

Which Course Do You Need?

Choose the SMSTS Course if:

You manage a construction site or planning to become a site manager
You oversee multiple teams or subcontractors
You are responsible for project planning, safety documentation and legal compliance
You want better career progression and higher earning potential

Choose the SSSTS Course if:

You supervise a small team of operatives
You deliver toolbox talks or monitor daily tasks
You want to develop into a supervisor or assistant site manager
You are not yet responsible for full site management or legal compliance

November 2025 – Why Now Is the Right Time to Book

Construction companies are preparing for the 2025 to 2026 project cycle, and qualified supervisors and site managers are in high demand. Booking your course in November 2025 allows you to:

Upskill before the new year hiring surge
Meet client and CSCS card requirements
Show commitment to safety and professional development
Renew expired or soon to expire qualifications before site access is restricted

Do You Need Any Qualifications to Join?

For SSSTS:

No formal qualifications required
Basic knowledge of site work is useful
Perfect for operatives moving into supervision

For SMSTS:

Experience in supervision or management is recommended
No prior certificates needed, but SSSTS is helpful
Must attend all sessions and pass the final assessment

Assessment and Certification

Both courses include a multiple choice and written exam at the end.

To help you prepare, try our free revision tools and mock exam questions here:
https://targetzerotraining.co.uk/mock-tests/

Once completed, you will receive a CITB certificate valid for 5 years.

Which One Helps You Earn More?

Role	Typical Level	Course Needed	Career Progression
Site Operative	Starter role	No course or SSSTS	Move to supervisor
Site Supervisor	Entry management	SSSTS	Move to site manager
Assistant Site Manager	Supervisor or junior manager	SSSTS or SMSTS	Move to full site manager
Site Manager	Full responsibility	SMSTS	Move to contracts manager or project lead
Contracts or Project Manager	Senior leader	SMSTS and further qualifications	Higher salary and responsibility