SSSTS Refresher Common Challenges and Solutions

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The SSSTS Refresher course is designed to update site supervisors on health and safety legislation, reinforce core supervisory responsibilities and extend certification for another five years. However, many delegates face common challenges when renewing their qualification, including expired certificates, exam anxiety, outdated knowledge and confusion about eligibility. At Target Zero Training, we help supervisors overcome these challenges with structured preparation, expert tutors and clear guidance so you can renew your SSSTS confidently and stay compliant.

In this complete guide, we explain the most common SSSTS Refresher challenges and provide practical solutions to help you pass first time and maintain your supervisory competence.

What Is the SSSTS Refresher Course

The SSSTS Refresher is a one day CITB Site Safety Plus course for supervisors who already hold a valid SSSTS certificate. It updates delegates on legislative changes, reinforces responsibilities and ensures continued compliance on UK construction sites.

The refresher extends your certificate for a further five years, provided it is completed before expiry.

You can view full course details and upcoming dates on our SSSTS refresher course page.

Common Challenge 1: Expired Certificate

One of the most frequent issues is arriving to book the refresher after the certificate has already expired.

The Problem

CITB requires the refresher to be completed before expiry
Once expired, you must retake the full SSSTS course
This means more time and additional cost

The Solution

Check your certificate expiry date at least three months in advance
Book early to secure availability
Set reminders to avoid missing renewal deadlines

If your certificate has expired, contact us and we will advise you on the correct route.

Common Challenge 2: Fear of the Assessment

Many supervisors worry about the exam, particularly if they have not sat an assessment in several years.

The Problem

Lack of recent exam experience
Concerns about legislative updates
Anxiety affecting concentration

The Solution

Use structured revision resources
Complete practice questions in advance
Engage actively during the course discussions

We recommend using our CITB mock tests to familiarise yourself with question style and improve confidence before attending.

Common Challenge 3: Outdated Legislative Knowledge

Health and safety legislation evolves. Supervisors who completed SSSTS five years ago may not be fully up to date.

The Problem

Changes in guidance and best practice
Increased focus on occupational health
Greater emphasis on environmental management

The Solution

The refresher course is specifically designed to update supervisors on:

Current health and safety law
Risk assessment responsibilities
Working at height controls
Fire safety updates
Environmental responsibilities

Our tutors break down updates clearly and link them to real site scenarios for practical understanding.

Common Challenge 4: Balancing Work Commitments

Supervisors often struggle to take time away from site responsibilities.

The Problem

Busy project deadlines
Limited cover on site
Pressure from management

The Solution

Choose live online options to reduce travel time
Book dates in advance to align with project schedules
Consider group bookings to train multiple supervisors together

Our flexible delivery options make it easier to renew without major disruption.

Common Challenge 5: Lack of Engagement

Some delegates view the refresher as a formality rather than an opportunity to strengthen leadership.

The Problem

Passive participation
Minimal retention of updated knowledge
Missed opportunity for professional growth

The Solution

We encourage active discussion, real world case studies and peer learning to ensure supervisors leave with refreshed leadership confidence, not just a renewed certificate.