off
When You Book Multiple Courses.
Qualify By Booking Multiple Places Or Courses. Book With Friends Or Your Team.
Choosing between the SMSTS refresher course and the full SMSTS training course can be confusing, especially if you are managing teams, overseeing construction projects, or looking to renew your certification this year. Both options are essential for maintaining high standards of health and safety on site, but they serve slightly different purposes.
At Target Zero Training, we make it easy to understand the difference so you can choose the right path — whether you are starting from scratch or updating your existing qualification.
What Is the SMSTS Course?
The CITB Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is the industry-recognised qualification for site managers, supervisors, and anyone responsible for organising, monitoring, or controlling construction site operations.
Our SMSTS course gives you the knowledge and confidence to manage site safety in line with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, CDM Regulations 2015, and other key legislation.
You’ll learn how to:
- Create and maintain safe working environments
- Conduct risk assessments effectively
- Manage site-wide safety responsibilities
- Understand your legal duties under UK safety law
- Communicate and lead with authority on site
On completion, you’ll receive a CITB certificate valid for five years, proving your competence as a qualified site manager.
Who Should Take the Full SMSTS Course?
If you have never completed the SMSTS course before, or your certificate has expired, you must take the full course.
It’s also the right choice if you are:
- Progressing from a supervisory to a management role
- Looking to strengthen your CV for future contracts
- Applying for a CSCS black card
- Managing multiple sites or subcontractors
Our SMSTS training courses are available both in person and online, so you can choose the delivery format that fits your schedule and learning style. Whether you prefer the classroom environment or the flexibility of SMSTS online training, the course content remains the same, and all sessions are taught by experienced, CITB-approved instructors.
What Is the SMSTS Refresher Course?
The SMSTS refresher course is designed for professionals who have already completed the full SMSTS and need to renew their qualification before it expires.
You can take the SMSTS refresher course within five years of your original certificate date. It’s a two-day training that updates you on:
- The latest changes to health and safety legislation
- Revised CITB standards and HSE guidance
- Environmental management and sustainability best practice
- Leadership and communication techniques on site
Completing your refresher on time ensures your SMSTS certificate remains valid for another five years — helping you stay compliant, employable, and confident in your role.
SMSTS Full Course vs Refresher: Key Differences
| Feature | Full SMSTS Course | SMSTS Refresher Course |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 days | 2 days |
| Eligibility | New learners or expired certificate | Valid SMSTS within 5 years |
| Assessment | Multiple-choice exam + tutor review | Multiple-choice exam |
| Certificate Validity | 5 years | 5 years (renewal) |
| Delivery Options | Classroom or Online | Classroom or Online |
| Ideal For | New managers and aspiring leaders | Experienced site managers needing renewal |
Which One Is Right for You in 2025?
Here’s a quick way to decide:
✅ Choose the Full SMSTS Course if:
- You have never done the SMSTS before
- Your certificate expired more than five years ago
- You are moving into a management role for the first time
- You want to strengthen your credentials for career progression
✅ Choose the SMSTS Refresher if:
- You already hold a valid SMSTS certificate
- Your certificate is due to expire within the next six months
- You want to keep your qualification current and compliant with CITB standards
If you are unsure which category you fall into, our team at Target Zero can help verify your status and guide you to the correct option.
Can You Take SMSTS Training Online?
Yes. Target Zero offers SMSTS online training courses that deliver the same accreditation as classroom sessions.
Our live virtual classrooms are led by qualified tutors, giving you the flexibility to learn from home while still benefiting from group interaction, tutor feedback, and real-time discussions.
All you need is a stable internet connection, a webcam, and a quiet workspace. Upon passing your online exam, you’ll receive the same CITB-approved certificate as a classroom delegate.
How to Prepare for Your SMSTS Exam
Whether you’re taking the full course or the refresher, preparation is key.
You can start by practising with our SMSTS mock tests to familiarise yourself with the question format and improve your confidence before exam day. These free resources are ideal for testing your knowledge of legislation, risk management, and site supervision responsibilities.
Why Choose Target Zero Training
At Target Zero Training, we’re proud to be one of the UK’s most trusted CITB-accredited training providers. Every year, we help thousands of professionals achieve and renew their SMSTS qualification through flexible, high-quality training delivered by industry experts.
When you book with us, you get:
- Competitive prices with no hidden fees
- Online or classroom options across the UK
- Free course materials and certificate included
- Access to mock tests and trainer support before and after your course
- ISO 9001-accredited quality assurance
Our mission is simple: to make health and safety training more accessible, engaging, and effective for everyone working in construction.
Book Your SMSTS Course Today
Don’t wait until your certificate expires. Secure your place today and keep your qualification valid for the next five years.
👉 Book your SMSTS Course
👉 Book your SMSTS Refresher Course
You can also visit our Mock Test portal to practise and prepare ahead of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is the SMSTS course?
The full SMSTS course runs for five days, while the refresher takes two days.
2. Can I do the SMSTS online?
Yes. Both the full and refresher versions are available as live online courses with Target Zero Training.
3. What happens if my SMSTS certificate expires?
If your certificate has expired, you must retake the full SMSTS course — refresher training is only valid within five years of your last certificate.
4. Is the SMSTS course difficult?
With proper preparation and engagement during lessons, most delegates pass on their first attempt. You can use our mock tests to get ready.
prices
ever
Complete All NVQs, From Anywhere
Flexible Remote Learning with an Assessor – Start Now From 0% Deposit*
*Eligibility Criteria Apply
