Top Mistakes in SSSTS Refresher and How We Fix Them

When You Book Multiple Courses.

Introduction

The SSSTS Refresher course is essential for construction supervisors who need to keep their qualification valid and remain compliant on UK construction sites. Although the refresher is only a one day programme, many delegates still struggle because of simple and avoidable mistakes.

Understanding these common errors before attending the course can make the difference between an easy pass and unnecessary problems. At Target Zero Training we see the same issues appear again and again. More importantly, we know exactly how to fix them.

If you need to review the full details of the refresher course first, you can find them here:
SSSTS Refresher Course Information

Why Mistakes Happen on the SSSTS Refresher

Many delegates attend the refresher assuming it will be very easy because they completed the full SSSTS course several years ago. This can lead to overconfidence and lack of preparation.

Even though the refresher is shorter, it still includes:

Updates to health and safety legislation
New industry guidance
Practical learning exercises
A formal end of course assessment

Taking the course seriously and preparing properly is the key to success.

Mistake One Leaving the Refresher Too Late

One of the most common problems is waiting until the last moment to book the refresher course.

SSSTS certificates are valid for five years only. If the certificate expires before the refresher is completed, the delegate must retake the full SSSTS course instead of the shorter refresher. This costs more money and requires more time away from work.

How We Fix This

At Target Zero Training we help delegates avoid this situation by providing:

Clear advice on certificate expiry dates
Regular course availability
Support with planning future training
Friendly reminders and booking guidance

Early booking ensures supervisors remain compliant without stress or additional cost.

Mistake Two Poor Understanding of Updated Legislation

Health and safety rules change regularly. Many supervisors assume that the knowledge they gained years ago is still correct. This can lead to confusion and wrong answers during the assessment.

How We Fix This

Our trainers focus strongly on explaining:

Recent legal changes
Current site safety expectations
Modern best practice
Real life examples from industry

Delegates leave with a clear and up to date understanding of what is required on today’s construction sites.

Mistake Three Not Preparing for the Assessment

Some delegates believe the refresher is simply an attendance course. In reality there is still a formal test that must be passed. Arriving unprepared can easily result in failure.

How We Fix This

We support every delegate by providing:

Clear explanation of the assessment format
Practice questions during the course
Tutor led revision sessions
Personal guidance and feedback

This structured approach helps remove anxiety and improves pass rates.

Mistake Four Relying Only on Experience

Years of site experience are extremely valuable, but experience alone is not enough to pass the refresher. The assessment focuses on specific legal knowledge and safety management principles.

How We Fix This

Our instructors connect real world experience to the exact information needed for the assessment. Complex legal topics are explained in practical everyday language so delegates can understand and apply them correctly.

Mistake Five Choosing the Wrong Training Provider

Not all SSSTS refresher courses are delivered to the same standard. Poor quality training often leads to confusion, lack of understanding, and unnecessary retakes.

How We Fix This

Target Zero Training provides:

Fully accredited CITB recognised courses
Highly experienced professional tutors
Clear and engaging delivery
High quality learning materials
Excellent delegate support

Choosing the right provider removes many of the common problems before the course even begins.

Mistake Six Arriving Without the Correct Documents

Delegates sometimes attend without proper identification or proof of previous SSSTS certification. This can delay the process or prevent completion of the course.

How We Fix This

Before every course we send detailed joining instructions explaining exactly:

What documents are required
What identification is needed
How to prepare for the day
What to expect during training

Clear communication prevents simple administrative issues from becoming big problems.

Mistake Seven Lack of Engagement During the Course

Because the refresher is only one day, some delegates fail to stay fully focused. Missing key information can directly affect assessment performance.

How We Fix This

Our tutors deliver interactive and engaging sessions that include:

Group discussions
Real site examples
Practical activities
Open question sessions

This approach keeps delegates involved and improves overall understanding.

Mistake Eight Failing to Apply Learning Back at Work

Passing the refresher is important, but using the knowledge on site is even more important. Some supervisors complete the course but do not update their working practices afterwards.

How We Fix This

We ensure delegates leave with:

Clear action points
Updated safety knowledge
Practical tools to use on site
Confidence to lead effectively

Our aim is real improvement in workplace safety, not just a certificate.

How Target Zero Training Supports Delegates

At Target Zero Training we design our SSSTS refresher courses specifically to prevent these common mistakes.

Experienced Professional Trainers

Our instructors understand exactly where delegates struggle and take the time to explain difficult areas in simple practical terms.

Clear and Structured Delivery

Every course follows a logical structure that guides delegates step by step through the key information required to pass the assessment.

Flexible Training Options

We offer both online instructor led courses and classroom courses, giving delegates the freedom to choose the option that suits them best.

Group Booking Discounts

For companies needing to refresh several supervisors at the same time, we provide an excellent saving.

Book two or more delegates together and receive 10 per cent off the total booking price. This makes refresher training far more affordable for businesses.

Fast Certification

After successful completion, certification is processed quickly so delegates can continue working without delay.

When the Full SSSTS Course is Required

If a supervisor has already allowed their certificate to expire, the refresher is no longer an option. In this case the full SSSTS course must be completed again.

Details of the full course can be found here:
SSSTS Training Course Overview

Conclusion

Most problems on the SSSTS refresher course are caused by simple and avoidable mistakes. Poor preparation, outdated knowledge, or choosing the wrong provider can all lead to unnecessary stress.

At Target Zero Training we understand these challenges and have built our training around fixing them. With professional tutors, clear course delivery, and strong delegate support, we help supervisors refresh their qualification smoothly and confidently.

If you need a reliable, supportive, and high quality SSSTS refresher course, book with a provider that knows how to help you succeed.

Book your course today:
SSSTS Refresher Course Information