SMSTS vs SSSTS, Which CITB Course Fits Your Role?

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When You Book Multiple Courses.

In the construction industry, understanding the differences between various safety training courses is essential for career progression and site safety. The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) and the Site Supervisors’ Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) are two career essential courses offered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). While both aim to enhance on-site safety, they cater to different roles and responsibilities within the construction hierarchy.

Understanding SMSTS and SSSTS

SMSTS:

Duration: 5 days

Designed for: Site managers, project managers, and senior personnel responsible for overseeing construction site operations.

Focus: Comprehensive coverage of health and safety legislation, risk assessments, and effective site management practices.

Outcome: Equips managers with the skills to establish and maintain a safe working environment, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

SSSTS:

Duration: 2 days

Designed for: Site supervisors, foremen, and team leaders who have direct responsibility for a workforce.

Focus: Emphasis on the supervisor’s role in promoting health and safety, understanding legal responsibilities, and effectively communicating safety information.

Outcome: Provides supervisors with the knowledge to contribute to a safer site environment and to understand their role in enforcing safety protocols.

Key Differences Between SMSTS and SSSTS

Aspect	SMSTS	SSSTS
Target Audience	Site Managers, Project Managers, Senior Personnel	Site Supervisors, Foremen, Team Leaders
Course Duration	5 Days	2 Days
Primary Focus	Site management, legal compliance, risk assessment, and safety culture	Supervisory responsibilities, health and safety communication
Certification Validity	5 Years	5 Years
Refresher Course	SMSTS Refresher	SSSTS Refresher

Choosing the Right Course for Your Role

Choosing between SMSTS and SSSTS depends on your current position and career objectives within the construction industry:

Opt for SMSTS if: You’re in a managerial role or aspiring to move into site management, with responsibilities that include planning, organising, and controlling construction activities.

Opt for SSSTS if: You’re in a supervisory position, overseeing specific tasks or teams on-site, and need to understand how to implement safety measures effectively.

Both courses are integral to promoting a culture of safety and ensuring that construction sites operate within legal and ethical standards.