SMSTS – Site Management Safety Training Scheme
CITB-Approved 5-Day Training for UK Site Managers and Supervisors
This five-day SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) course is designed for anyone who oversees construction site activities. It provides the knowledge and certification needed to manage health and safety on site in line with current UK legislation.
The course is delivered either online (live with a tutor) or in person, and concludes with an assessment. Successful delegates will receive a CITB Site Safety Plus certificate valid for five years.
Who Should Attend?
This training is suitable for:
- Site and project managers
- Site supervisors and forepersons
- Company directors or contractors in charge of on-site teams
- Health and safety coordinators working on construction projects
You don’t need any formal training beforehand, but you should have on-site experience and a good grasp of spoken and written English.
Why Is This Course Important?
The SMSTS course is widely recognised across the UK construction industry. It covers legal responsibilities, accident prevention, and how to manage work safely under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations.
You’ll learn how to:
- Apply health and safety law on active construction sites
- Recognise hazards and carry out risk assessments
- Develop safe systems of work and supervise teams effectively
- Communicate safety expectations clearly
- Prepare for site audits and respond to HSE inspections
Many contractors and principal clients require this qualification as a condition for working in supervisory or management roles.
Course Content
You’ll study a wide range of topics, including:
- The Health and Safety at Work Act
- CDM Regulations and legal roles
- Risk assessments and method statements
- Working at height and excavation safety
- Electrical and fire safety procedures
- COSHH and environmental risks
- Site welfare and occupational health
- Toolbox talks, inductions, and safety briefings
- Encouraging behavioural safety and team engagement
Course Structure and Assessment
- Duration: Five days, full-time
- Format: Live online (Zoom) or face-to-face at UK venues
- Delivery: Tutor-led sessions with real-world examples
- Assessment: Multiple-choice exam and written exercise
- Certification: CITB SMSTS certificate, valid for five years
- Renewal: Take the SMSTS Refresher before the certificate expires
What Makes This Course Practical?
Unlike generic safety training, this course focuses specifically on the challenges faced by site managers in the UK construction environment. Real case studies, discussion-based learning, and scenario planning are key parts of the programme.
The course includes materials, and you’ll have access to revision tools and tutor support throughout.
Benefits for Your Role
By the end of the course, you’ll be better equipped to:
- Lead site teams with clarity and confidence
- Reduce the likelihood of incidents and claims
- Comply with HSE expectations and avoid enforcement action
- Show clients that you manage your site professionally and keep it compliant.
Booking and Pricing
We run this course regularly across the UK – both online and in-person. To check upcoming dates and availability, visit our website or contact our team directly. The course fee includes all training, materials, the exam, and the CITB certificate.
Discounts may be available for early bookings or multiple delegates from the same company.
What Previous Delegates Say
“Clear, relevant and to the point. The examples made it easier to understand and apply on site.”
“Helped me feel more confident about legal responsibilities. Trainer knew their stuff.”
“We sent three site managers – all passed. Good experience overall.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the SMSTS certificate legally required?
No, but it’s widely expected on UK construction sites. Most main contractors require it for anyone managing site safety.
Can I take this SMSTS – Site Management Safety Training Scheme course online?
Yes. We deliver the SMSTS course via live Zoom sessions, with interaction and support from experienced trainers.
Do I need previous qualifications to attend?
No formal qualifications are needed, but you should have site experience and be confident using English.
What if I fail the exam?
Most people pass on the first attempt. If not, resit options are available – speak to us and we’ll help you through the process.
What happens when my certificate expires?
You’ll need to take a 2-day SMSTS Refresher before your certificate runs out. If it expires, you must retake the full course.
