Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS)

what you should expect from this course

This qualification will be delivered by experienced and engaging trainers. During the course: learners will actively engage with trainers, receive guidance and feedback, and have the opportunity to discuss course material with real-world applications.

Benefits for learners

It’s ideal for anyone who needs a thorough understanding of construction health and safety issues to be able to manage projects as well as the day-to-day risks effectively. Many people take this qualification as a first step in a career in construction health and safety. It gives a valuable overview, and is a sound basis for further professional study.

Some of the specific skills gained are as follows: learners will learn how to manage and implement health, safety and environmental aspects on site, in accordance with current legal provisions and within the context of their management role; implement new guidance and industry best practice; develop an understanding of responsibility and accountability for site (health, safety, welfare and the environment); and recognise that a safe site is efficient, economical, productive and environmentally friendly.

Benefits for employers

Achieving this qualification makes all the difference within the construction trade. The course covers relevant health, safety and environmental legislation affecting safe working in the building, construction and civil engineering industries. It highlights the need for risk assessment in the workplace, the implementation of the necessary control measures, and adequate communication to sustain a health and safety culture among the workforce.

learning outcomes

Module 1
Health and safety law.
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act.
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM).
Health and safety management systems.
Risk assessments and method statements.
Induction and training.
Effective communication.
Leadership and worker engagement.
Inspection and audit.
Statutory forms notices and registers.
Accident prevention, control, reporting and investigation.

Module 2
Management of health.
Welfare facilities.
Stress and mental health at work.
Drugs and alcohol.
Control of substances hazardous to health.
Lead.
Asbestos.
Dust and fumes.
Noise.
Vibration.
Manual handling.

Module 3
Site organisation.
Fire prevention and control, and dangerous substances.
Electrical safety.
Temporary works.
Work equipment and hand-held tools.
Mobile work equipment.
Lifting operations and equipment.
Mobile workforce and driver safety.

Module 4
Work at Height Regulations.
Working at height.
Common access equipment.
Scaffolding.
Fall arrest and suspension equipment.
Excavations.
Underground and overhead services.
Confined spaces.

expected time dedication

It takes 5 days.

Delivery Methods

Full-time block release (classroom)
Part-time day release (classroom)
Distance (virtual classroom – online)
Open learning (self-guided study, instructor resource available on request – online)

Assessment Method

To successfully achieve the course, delegates must: complete all four core exercises, pass the trainer review, and pass the end of course exam.
The paper consists of 25 questions (18 multiple choice, and 7 questions in multi-response or short written answer format), selected by CITB, covering all aspects of the course. The exam must be taken at the end of the course.

entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course other than a good grasp of the English language and a willingness to learn about good safety practices. However, learners should hold, or be about to hold, the role of a site manager. Previous health and safety knowledge is recommended. Those without previous health and safety management experience are recommended to sit the two-day SSSTS course.