What is the CITB Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS)? And Who Needs this Training?

The CITB Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is the industry-recognised qualification for Site Managers across the construction sector. On a high proportion of construction sites, it is mandatory for site managers to hold a 3 Day L3 First Aid at Work (FAW), CITB SMSTS, and CSCS Black Card as well as having the relevant experience and competencies for the site they are working on as well as holding any additional tickets.

In this article, we will explain all you need to know about the SMSTS course, including what it covers, the benefits and what to expect when you attend a course with us at Pragmatic Consulting.

What is the SMSTS Course?

This five-day course is designed for Site Managers, Agents and persons who are, or are about to be, responsible for planning, organising, monitoring, controlling, and administering groups of staff and workforce.

This course covers all relevant legislation and other aspects which affect 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 & Safety culture in the workforce.

The course is delivered with a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical group exercises, delegates gain a thorough understanding of their roles and responsibilities in creating and maintaining a safe construction environment.

Why is the CITB SMSTS Course Important?

The Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) annual statistics for the 2023/2024 period show that the Construction sector recorded the highest number of all work-related fatalities.

51 out of 138 deaths occurred in the construction industry. This is in comparison with an annual average of 42 fatalities over a five-year period.

More than half (52%) of these deaths were caused by falls from height, followed by being trapped by something collapsing and being struck by a moving object (both 11%).

The fatal injury rate in construction is 1.96 per 100,000 workers (as per the latest HSE report). This is around 4.9 times the all-industry rate.

These statistics highlight just how important it is to have adequate site safety training, such as the CITB SMSTS course. 

For site managers, the CITB SMSTS certificate demonstrates dedication to upholding industry-recognised safety standards. For employers, investing in CITB-accredited training for staff shows a commitment to safety and compliance. In addition to enhancing their reputation, this qualification contributes to a culture of safety that can significantly reduce accidents and incidents on construction sites.

Key Topics Covered on the CITB SMSTS Course

The CITB SMSTS course covers a broad range of subjects crucial for effective site management, including but not limited to:

• Health & Safety at Work Act
• CDM Regulations
• Risk Assessment
• Method Statements
• Changes in accepted working practices
• Scaffolding
• Electricity
• Behavioural safety
• Excavations
• Demolition
• Confined Spaces
• Management of Occupational Health
• Working at Heights
• Plus, much more

CITB SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) is a five-day course for site managers. This course has been designed for site managers who are responsible for the monitoring, planning, organising, and controlling of staff. If you are a site supervisor you may want to consider the CITB SSSTS (Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme) instead.

The SMSTS course will provide you with a thorough understanding of health, safety, and environmental legislation that affects safe working on site.

Each delegate will receive the CITB Mandatory Publications (eBooks for virtual courses and hardcopy for face-to-face courses)

• Construction site management delegate workbook (XA6) 
• Construction site safety – The comprehensive guide (GE700) 

This training is endorsed by BuildUK - the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry.

You gain a highly recognised qualification, which is valid for five years. To remain certified in this area, you will need to retake a course before the expiry date on your certificate, otherwise the full course will need to be retaken.

Who Should Attend the CITB SMSTS Course?

The SMSTS course is designed for professionals who play a key role in managing the safety of construction sites. 

Eligibility and Entry Requirements

The SMSTS course is open to individuals who are currently in, or aspiring to, management roles within the construction industry. There are no strict academic requirements for this course, but delegates are expected to have a good understanding of spoken and written English to fully participate in and complete the course successfully. 

This is crucial for understanding course materials and legal requirements and for the assessment at the end of the course. 

Delegates are also required to present a form of photographic ID at the start of the course to confirm their identity.

Ideal Candidates for the Course

The SMSTS course is most beneficial for:

• Site Managers
• Site Supervisors
• Project Managers
• Construction Business Owners
• Health and Safety Advisors

Course Delivery Options: Classroom vs Online

Pragmatic Consulting offers flexible delivery options for the SMSTS course, including online, face-to-face training and delivering on your site.

How to Book Your SMSTS Course

Registering to attend the CITB SMSTS course is a straightforward process.

If you’re a delegate, you can book onto the course yourself via our website or via our friendly support team on 01926 674340 or support@pragmatic-consulting.co.uk.

If you’re a company, you can book one or more places on behalf of your employees via our website or via our friendly support team on 01926 674340 or support@pragmatic-consulting.co.uk.

Prepare for Your Course

Make sure you have the necessary equipment for online learning (a computer or laptop with internet access, a webcam, a microphone, and a quiet space conducive to learning) or know the location and start time for in-person training. 

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to completing the CITB SMSTS course and enhancing your skills in construction site safety management. If you have any questions or need further assistance during the booking process, don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance.

Already completed your SMSTS and your card about to expire? Understand the Benefits of the CITB SMSTS Refresher Course.

Not ready for the management course yet, the Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme might be more suited to you?

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