CITB Temporary Works Supervisor Training Course

The CITB Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS) course is a 1-day training course designed for those responsible for supervising temporary works on construction sites. Available at our classroom venues across the UK and online, it gives delegates the knowledge and understanding required to carry out the TWS role in line with BS5975 and current legislation.

No previous qualifications are required. The course is open to anyone working in a supervisory capacity on temporary works, from scaffolding and falsework to excavations and propping systems.

What is a Temporary Works Supervisor?

A Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS) is responsible for overseeing the on-site execution of temporary works in accordance with approved designs and method statements. The role sits below the Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) in the temporary works management hierarchy and is essential to ensuring that structures like scaffolding, formwork, falsework and excavation supports are erected, used and dismantled safely.

The TWS role is defined within BS5975:2019, the British Standard for the management of temporary works. While attendance on this course alone does not confer competency (competency comes from a combination of education, training and experience), it is considered an essential element of TWS competence by CITB.

Who Should Attend?

This course is suitable for anyone who supervises temporary works on site, including:

• Site supervisors and foremen overseeing temporary works activities
• Scaffolding supervisors
• Formwork and falsework supervisors
• Excavation and shoring supervisors
• Those looking to formalise their knowledge of BS5975 and the TWS role
• Anyone preparing to progress to a Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) qualification

If you manage and design temporary works schemes rather than supervise them on site, the CITB Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) course may be more appropriate for your role.

What Does the Course Cover?

The course is focused on the processes involved in temporary works, particularly the role of the TWS. It is not a technical awareness course, although elements of technical awareness are signposted throughout and included in course exercises. The main topics covered are:

• The relevant aspects of BS5975: Risk management of temporary works
• The importance of the 4Cs: communication, co-operation, co-ordination and competency
• Current legislation relating to temporary works
• Case studies from real temporary works incidents
• The TWS role and responsibilities within the temporary works management structure
• Handover, checking and acceptance procedures
• When to escalate concerns to the Designated Individual (DI) or TWC

Course Details

• Duration: 1 day (8.30am start)
• Delivery: Classroom or online via Zoom
• Certificate validity: 5 years
• Approved by: CITB
• Assessment: Written assessment on the day
• Results: Confirmed by email shortly after course completion
• Certificate: CITB digital certificate emailed within 2 to 3 weeks

How the Course is Delivered

The Temporary Works Supervisor course is available as classroom training at our venues across the UK or online via Zoom. Choose whichever suits you best when booking.

Classroom: Courses run regularly at our venues. Once booked you will receive joining instructions confirming all venue details and timings.

Online: The course is delivered via Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent at 6pm the evening before your course date. We recommend logging on at 8am to resolve any connection issues before the 8.30am start. You will need a laptop or desktop computer with a working microphone and camera. iPads and mobile phones are not suitable.

For both options, you will need to complete an Initial Assessment sent by email link, and a Delegate Information Form included in your joining instructions. Both are mandatory CITB requirements. A sufficient level of English is required as stipulated by CITB.

What is the Difference Between TWS and TWC?

The TWS and TWC are two distinct roles within the temporary works management structure defined by BS5975. The key differences are:

• The Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS) supervises the on-site execution of temporary works. They ensure that work is carried out in accordance with approved designs and method statements, and report to the TWC.
• The Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) manages and coordinates the overall temporary works process on a project. They are responsible for the design management, checking, approval and permitting of temporary works schemes.

Many construction professionals take the TWS course first and progress to the TWC course as their responsibilities grow. If you are unsure which course is right for you, call us on 01245 379496 and the team will advise.

In-House and On-Site Training

If you have a group of employees who need the Temporary Works Supervisor course, we can deliver the training at your own premises. In-house delivery removes the need for travel, keeps your team together and can be arranged around your schedule.

To discuss in-house or on-site training options, contact the team directly:

• Call us on 01245 379496
• Email us at sales@targetzerogroup.co.uk

Why Choose Target Zero Training?

• CITB-approved training provider
• 4.9/5 rating across 10,000+ reviews on Trustpilot and Reviews.io
• Courses running throughout the year. Book online in minutes.
• Results confirmed the same day
• Dedicated account management team: 01245 379496

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any previous qualifications to take the TWS course?

No. There are no prerequisite qualifications required to attend the Temporary Works Supervisor course. You will need adequate IT skills, a laptop or desktop computer with a working camera and microphone, and a sufficient level of English as required by CITB.

How long does the Temporary Works Supervisor certificate last?

The CITB Temporary Works Supervisor certificate is valid for 5 years. After this period you will need to retake the course to renew your certification. The certificate itself is emailed to you digitally within 2 to 3 weeks of completing the course.

How much does the Temporary Works Supervisor course cost?

The TWS course starts from £199+VAT with Target Zero Training. Use the course dates section above to find your preferred date and book online.

Is the Temporary Works Supervisor course available online?

Yes. The course is available both online via Zoom and as classroom training at our venues in Chelmsford, Peterborough, Crawley, Sheffield, Stratford, Waltham Abbey and Barking. Choose your preferred option when booking. For online attendance you will need a laptop or desktop with a camera and microphone. iPads and mobile phones cannot be used.

What is the difference between the TWS and TWC course?

The TWS course is aimed at those who supervise temporary works on site. The TWC course is for those who manage, coordinate and take overall responsibility for temporary works on a project. The TWC role carries greater responsibility and is typically suited to more senior construction professionals. See our TWS vs TWC guide for a full comparison.

When will I receive my results?

Your result will be confirmed by email shortly after the course ends on the day. Your CITB digital certificate will follow by email within 2 to 3 weeks of successful completion.