SMSTS Course: Everything You'll ever Need to Know (2024)

The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is a course designed to provide project managers, site managers, and supervisors with the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure the safety and well-being of workers on construction sites. The course covers a wide range of topics, including risk assessment, planning, organisation, monitoring, and controlling. It is aimed at those who are responsible for managing construction sites and ensuring that they comply with Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) and Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM).

The SMSTS course is part of the Site Safety Plus suite of courses developed by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). It is a highly respected and recognised qualification within the construction industry and is essential for anyone who wants to progress their career in site management. The course is available in both classroom-based and remote learning formats, allowing delegates to choose the method that best suits their learning style.

The SMSTS course is an essential requirement for anyone who is responsible for managing construction sites and ensuring the safety and well-being of workers. It provides delegates with the necessary skills and knowledge to comply with HSWA and CDM regulations and to effectively manage risk on construction sites. The course is highly respected within the construction industry and is an essential qualification for anyone who wants to progress their career in site management.

Understanding SMSTS

What is SMSTS?

SMSTS stands for Site Management Safety Training Scheme. It is a course designed to provide site managers, agents, and supervisors with the knowledge and skills required to ensure the safety of construction sites. The course is run by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and is part of their Site Safety Plus program.

The SMSTS course is a five-day program that covers a range of topics, including health and safety legislation, risk assessment, and management of contractors. The course is designed to provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of their legal and moral responsibilities as site managers.

Importance of SMSTS in Construction Industry

The SMSTS course is essential for anyone working in the construction industry, particularly those in a management or supervisory role. It is a legal requirement for site managers to have completed the SMSTS course, as outlined in the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.

The importance of the SMSTS course lies in its ability to equip site managers with the knowledge and skills required to ensure the safety of everyone on site. Site managers are responsible for the safety of workers, visitors, and the public, and the SMSTS course provides them with the tools to carry out this responsibility effectively.

SMSTS vs SSSTS

The Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) is a two-day course designed for those in a supervisory role on construction sites. It covers similar topics to the SMSTS course but is tailored to the needs of supervisors rather than managers.

While the SSSTS course is not a legal requirement, it is highly recommended for anyone in a supervisory role on a construction site. The SMSTS course is more comprehensive and is aimed at those in a management role, but both courses are valuable for anyone working in the construction industry.

In conclusion, the SMSTS course is a vital part of the Site Safety Plus program and is essential for anyone working in a management or supervisory role on a construction site. It provides attendees with the knowledge and skills required to ensure the safety of everyone on site and is a legal requirement for site managers. The SSSTS course is also valuable for those in a supervisory role and covers similar topics to the SMSTS course.

SMSTS Course Details

The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is a highly regarded training course for site managers, project managers, and supervisors in the construction industry. This course is designed to provide delegates with essential knowledge and understanding of their responsibilities and accountability for site safety.

SMSTS Course Duration

The SMSTS course is five days long, with each day consisting of seven and a half hours of training. The course is usually conducted over consecutive days, but some providers may offer the course over a more extended period.

Course Content

The course content focuses on learning how to work and manage following the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA). Delegates will learn about planning, organising, monitoring, controlling, and administering health and safety on construction sites. The syllabus includes the following topics:

  • Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA)
  • Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM)
  • Risk assessments and method statements
  • Site set-up
  • Scaffolding
  • Electricity
  • Excavations
  • Demolition
  • Confined spaces
  • Recent changes in accepted working practices

Virtual Classroom and Remote Learning

Some providers may offer virtual classroom and remote learning options for the SMSTS course. This option allows delegates to attend the course from their home or office, reducing the need for travel and accommodation costs. The virtual classroom and remote learning options provide the same level of training as the traditional classroom-based course.

Examination and Assessment

The SMSTS course includes a multiple-choice examination and a case study exercise. Delegates must achieve a score of 80% or more in the examination and pass the case study exercise to receive certification.

SMSTS Refresher Course

The SMSTS certification is valid for five years. After this period, delegates must attend an SMSTS Refresher Course to renew their certification. The refresher course is a two-day course that covers the latest legislation and best practices in the construction industry.

Overall, the SMSTS course is an essential training course for site managers, project managers, and supervisors in the construction industry. The course provides delegates with the knowledge and understanding they need to manage health and safety effectively on construction sites.

Legislation and Compliance

Health and Safety Legislation

The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) covers all relevant legislation affecting safe working in the building, construction, and civil engineering industries. This includes the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which places a duty on employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees and anyone else who may be affected by their work. The SMSTS course also covers the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, which require employers to carry out risk assessments, implement control measures, and provide information, instruction, and training to their employees.

Environmental Legislation

Environmental legislation is also covered in the SMSTS course. This includes the Environmental Protection Act 1990, which places a duty on businesses to prevent pollution and protect the environment. The course also covers the Waste Management Regulations 1994, which require businesses to manage their waste in a safe and responsible manner.

Construction Design and Management Regulations

The Construction Design and Management (CDM) Regulations are also covered in the SMSTS course. These regulations place a duty on all parties involved in a construction project to ensure that health and safety is considered throughout the project's lifecycle. This includes the planning, design, construction, and maintenance phases.

Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations

The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) are also covered in the SMSTS course. These regulations require employers to report certain work-related accidents, diseases, and dangerous occurrences to the relevant authorities. This includes accidents that result in death, major injuries, or over seven days off work, as well as work-related diseases and dangerous occurrences such as gas leaks, electrical failures, and explosions.

Overall, the SMSTS course provides site managers with the knowledge and skills they need to ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and regulations, and to promote a safe and healthy working environment for everyone involved in a construction project.

Safety Management

The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) course provides participants with the knowledge and skills required to manage safety on construction sites in accordance with current legal provisions. Safety management involves planning, organising, monitoring, controlling, and administering the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA). The SMSTS course covers a range of topics, including risk assessment, working at height, scaffolding safety, confined spaces safety, and electricity safety.

Risk Assessment

Risk assessment is a crucial aspect of safety management. It involves identifying hazards and assessing the risks they pose to workers and others on site. Risk assessments should be carried out regularly and whenever there is a change in the work environment. The SMSTS course covers the principles and techniques of risk assessment, including how to identify hazards, evaluate risks, and implement control measures.

Working at Height

Working at height is one of the most common causes of accidents and fatalities on construction sites. The SMSTS course covers the legal requirements for working at height, including the Work at Height Regulations 2005. Participants learn how to plan and organise work at height, select and inspect equipment, and implement control measures to minimise the risk of falls.

Scaffolding Safety

Scaffolding is a common feature of construction sites, and it is essential that it is erected, used, and dismantled safely. The SMSTS course covers the legal requirements for scaffolding, including the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. Participants learn how to plan and organise scaffolding work, select and inspect equipment, and implement control measures to minimise the risk of falls and other accidents.

Confined Spaces Safety

Confined spaces are areas that are not designed for people to work in, but where work may need to be carried out. They pose a range of hazards, including poor ventilation, restricted access, and the risk of fire or explosion. The SMSTS course covers the legal requirements for working in confined spaces, including the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997. Participants learn how to plan and organise work in confined spaces, assess the risks, and implement control measures to minimise the risk of accidents.

Electricity Safety

Electricity is a common feature of construction sites, and it poses a range of hazards, including electric shock, burns, and fires. The SMSTS course covers the legal requirements for working with electricity, including the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Participants learn how to plan and organise work with electricity, assess the risks, and implement control measures to minimise the risk of accidents.

In conclusion, safety management is a crucial aspect of construction site management, and the SMSTS course provides participants with the knowledge and skills required to manage safety effectively. By covering a range of topics, including risk assessment, working at height, scaffolding safety, confined spaces safety, and electricity safety, the SMSTS course equips participants with the tools they need to keep workers and others on site safe.

SMSTS course: Certification and Accreditation

SMSTS Certificate

The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is a highly regarded certification in the construction industry. It is designed for project managers, site managers, supervisors, business owners, and clients. The SMSTS certificate is an indication of the competence of a construction site manager according to the Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) for the CDM Regulations.

The SMSTS course covers topics such as health, safety, welfare, and environmental issues on construction sites. It also covers legal responsibilities, risk assessment, and accident prevention. The course is delivered by CITB-accredited training providers.

CITB SMSTS Accreditation

The SMSTS course is accredited by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). The CITB is the industry training board for the construction sector in the UK. It works with industry to develop and deliver training courses that meet the needs of the sector.

CITB accreditation ensures that the SMSTS course meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. It also means that the course is recognised by employers in the construction industry.

CSCS Labourers Green Card

The SMSTS certificate is a requirement for obtaining the CSCS Labourers Green Card. The CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) is a card scheme that proves a worker has the required training and qualifications for the job they do on a construction site.

The CSCS Labourers Green Card is the basic card for construction site workers. It is a requirement for anyone who works on a construction site as a labourer. The card shows that the worker has passed the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test and has the SMSTS certificate.

In summary, the SMSTS certificate is a highly regarded certification in the construction industry. It is accredited by the CITB and is a requirement for obtaining the CSCS Labourers Green Card. The course covers a range of topics related to health, safety, welfare, and environmental issues on construction sites, as well as legal responsibilities, risk assessment, and accident prevention.

Site Management Safety Training Scheme Role and Responsibilities

Site Manager

The Site Manager is responsible for ensuring that the construction site is safe and secure for all workers, visitors, and members of the public. They must ensure that all work is carried out in accordance with the relevant health and safety legislation and that all workers are appropriately trained and equipped to carry out their work safely. The Site Manager must also ensure that all necessary safety equipment is provided and maintained to a high standard.

Supervisors

Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that their team works safely and that all work is carried out in accordance with the relevant health and safety legislation. They must ensure that their team members are appropriately trained and equipped to carry out their work safely and that all necessary safety equipment is provided and maintained to a high standard. Supervisors must also ensure that they report any safety concerns to the Site Manager.

Project Managers

Project Managers are responsible for ensuring that the construction project is completed safely and within budget and timescale. They must ensure that all work is carried out in accordance with the relevant health and safety legislation and that all workers are appropriately trained and equipped to carry out their work safely. Project Managers must also ensure that they report any safety concerns to the Site Manager.

Employers

Employers are responsible for ensuring that their employees are trained and equipped to carry out their work safely. They must ensure that all necessary safety equipment is provided and maintained to a high standard. Employers must also ensure that they report any safety concerns to the Site Manager.

Clients

Clients are responsible for ensuring that the construction project is completed safely and within budget and timescale. They must ensure that all work is carried out in accordance with the relevant health and safety legislation and that all workers are appropriately trained and equipped to carry out their work safely. Clients must also ensure that they report any safety concerns to the Site Manager.

Additional Resources

For those looking to expand their knowledge beyond the Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) course, there are several additional resources available. These resources can provide further training and certification in specific areas related to construction site safety.

CITB Publications

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) offers a range of publications that cover a variety of topics related to construction site safety. These publications include guides, manuals, and other resources that can be used to supplement the knowledge gained from the SMSTS course. Some of the CITB publications that may be of interest to site managers and supervisors include:

  • Health, safety and environment test for operatives and specialists
  • Construction site safety - The comprehensive guide
  • Site supervision simplified

IPAF Courses

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) offers a range of courses that cover the safe use of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and other powered access equipment. These courses can be useful for site managers and supervisors who need to oversee the use of such equipment on construction sites. Some of the IPAF courses that may be of interest include:

  • Dual mobile vertical (3a) + (3b) mobile boom - operator
  • Harness use and inspection

PASMA Courses

The Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association (PASMA) offers a range of courses that cover the safe use of mobile access towers. These courses can be useful for site managers and supervisors who need to oversee the use of such equipment on construction sites. Some of the PASMA courses that may be of interest include:

  • Mobile access towers for users

Ladder Association Courses

The Ladder Association offers a range of courses that cover the safe use and inspection of ladders and stepladders. These courses can be useful for site managers and supervisors who need to oversee the use of such equipment on construction sites. Some of the Ladder Association courses that may be of interest include:

  • Ladder and stepladder user
  • Ladder and stepladder inspection

Overall, these additional resources can provide valuable training and certification in specific areas related to construction site safety. Site managers and supervisors should consider exploring these resources to supplement the knowledge gained from the SMSTS course.

SMSTS: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of an SMSTS course?

The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) course is typically a five-day training programme. It is designed to provide site managers and supervisors with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage and supervise construction activities safely.

What are the prerequisites for taking an SMSTS course?

There are no formal prerequisites for taking an SMSTS course. However, it is recommended that participants have some experience in the construction industry and a basic understanding of health and safety legislation.

How much does an SMSTS course cost?

The cost of an SMSTS course may vary depending on the training provider and location. On average, the cost of an SMSTS course can range from £450 to £600. It is important to note that some training providers may offer discounts for group bookings or early registration.

Is the SMSTS course accredited?

Yes, the SMSTS course is accredited by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). The CITB is an industry-led organisation that provides training and qualifications for the construction industry.

What topics are covered in an SMSTS course?

The SMSTS course covers a wide range of topics related to health and safety in the construction industry. Some of the topics covered in the course include risk assessment, health and safety legislation, site set-up, and communication. The course also covers topics such as fire prevention and control, hazardous substances, and manual handling.

What are the benefits of taking an SMSTS course?

Taking an SMSTS course can provide several benefits for construction site managers and supervisors. It can help them to understand their legal responsibilities and obligations regarding health and safety in the workplace. The course can also help managers and supervisors to identify and manage risks effectively, which can help to reduce accidents and injuries on construction sites. Additionally, completing an SMSTS course can enhance career prospects and demonstrate a commitment to health and safety in the construction industry.

SMSTS Course: Everything You'll ever Need to Know (2024)

FAQs

Does SMSTS supersede CSCs? ›

No, possession of an SMSTS certificate is not sufficient to work without a CSCS card in construction. While the SMSTS certificate demonstrates that the holder has a thorough understanding of health and safety regulations, the CSCS card confirms an individual's competence to work on a construction site.

What is the grace period for SMSTS? ›

SMSTS Certificate Expiry

It is important to note that there is a grace period for certificate holders whose SMSTS certificate has expired. The grace period is six months from the date of expiration. During this time, certificate holders can still renew their certificate by attending an SMSTS refresher course.

What are the basics of Smsts? ›

The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is a key training programme designed for individuals in managerial roles within the construction sector. This detailed course aims to equip participants with a thorough understanding of health and safety responsibilities and practices in the construction environment.

Is SMSTS higher than SSSTs? ›

SMSTS and SSSTS are similar courses, but the SMSTS course goes into much deeper detail as it is designed for managers to be able to implement safety systems within the workplace; whereas the SSSTS is designed to give supervisors the skills needed to ensure compliance with these systems.

Can you get a gold card with sssts? ›

The type of card that can be obtained with SSSTS (Site Supervisors' Safety Training Scheme) is the Gold Supervisor card. To obtain a Gold Supervisor card, individuals must have completed the SSSTS course and passed the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test within the last two years.

Can I use CPCS instead of CSCS? ›

A CPCS card has a specific scope than a CSCS card, mainly focused on one area, plant operations and machinery. If your work responsibilities or job roles fall under plant machinery, then a CPCS card is necessary. This card may not cover the requirements for all job roles on a site!

What card can I get with SMSTs? ›

The Pathway to Achieving a Black CSCS Card

Start by completing the SMSTS course to build a strong foundation in site management and safety. This course will provide you with essential skills and knowledge that are crucial for effective site management.

What is triple SMSTS? ›

SMSTS or SSSTS? If you are not yet at a managerial level, the Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) is the most sensible option. The Site Managers Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) course is aimed at Managers in construction and this is reflected in its 5-day duration and content.

What is the difference between IOSH and Smsts? ›

One of the main differences between the SMSTS course and the IOSH Managing Safely course is the type of candidate that they are aimed at. The SMSTS stands for Site Management Safety Training Scheme and this course is aimed at Site Managers.

Do I need sssts if I have SMSTs? ›

The main difference is the SSSTS is aimed at supervisors while the SMSTS is directed at management staff. It just depends on the role that you intend to take on in the future. If you have completed an SSSTS course, though, going for your SMSTS is advised. However, it's not mandatory to sit your SSSTS before the SMSTS.

What is the difference between a site manager and a site supervisor? ›

A site supervisor is an entry-level construction management role, whereas a site manager may have more experience or a higher qualification behind them to handle the broader responsibilities of their role. A site manager may also handle multiple sites at once, while site supervisors generally are focused on one site.

Is CCNSG equivalent to CSCS? ›

CCNSG or CSCS Card? The CCNSG card is for engineering sites and the CSCS card is for construction sites. Whichever of these sites you work on will determine which certification you should choose. It is also recommended to ask your employer or the client who is running the site.

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