- Call us now: 01634 260 631
If you’re searching for “Do I need SMSTS or SSSTS?”, you’re not alone.
It’s one of the most common questions asked by construction professionals, employers and those looking to progress their careers.
While both qualifications are part of the CITB Site Safety Plus Scheme, they are designed for different roles and levels of responsibility.
This guide explains the key differences between SMSTS and SSSTS, who should attend each course, whether you need a refresher, and how choosing the right qualification can help you stay compliant and advance your career.
If you’re:
In simple terms:
| SMSTS | SSSTS |
|---|---|
| For Site Managers | For Site Supervisors |
| 5-day course | 2-day course |
| Higher level qualification | Supervisor level qualification |
| Covers site management responsibilities | Covers day-to-day supervision |
The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is CITB’s flagship health and safety qualification for construction site managers.
The course has been designed for individuals responsible for planning, organising, monitoring and controlling construction work.
The course provides delegates with the knowledge needed to meet legal responsibilities and effectively manage health, safety, welfare and environmental issues on construction projects.
Topics include:
The emphasis is on understanding how to manage site safety rather than simply following procedures.
The Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) is aimed at first-line managers and supervisors.
It focuses on the responsibilities of supervising construction work safely on a day-to-day basis.
It gives supervisors the confidence to identify hazards, communicate effectively and ensure work is carried out safely.
Delegates learn about:
The course is practical and focuses on real construction site situations.
✔ You’re responsible for managing construction projects.
✔ You oversee multiple trades or subcontractors.
✔ You’re responsible for site safety.
✔ You want to progress into site management.
✔ You supervise workers.
✔ You’re a foreperson or team leader.
✔ You monitor work on site.
✔ You’re stepping into your first supervisory role.
Yes.
You do not need to complete SSSTS before taking SMSTS.
Many site managers complete SMSTS without ever holding an SSSTS qualification.
Likewise, many supervisors complete SSSTS and remain at that level throughout their careers.
The right course depends on your current role—not which course comes first.
Both qualifications remain valid for five years.
Before they expire, delegates should complete the appropriate refresher course.
If your qualification expires, you may need to complete the full course again.
Completing your refresher before expiry saves both time and money.
Yes.
Lighthouse Safety offers both classroom and live online CITB-approved courses.
Our virtual courses are delivered live by experienced tutors, allowing delegates to participate from home or the workplace while receiving the same nationally recognised qualification.
Choosing the right training provider is just as important as choosing the right qualification.
At Lighthouse Safety, we have helped thousands of construction professionals achieve nationally recognised CITB qualifications.
When you train with us, you’ll benefit from:
Whether you’re taking your first supervisory role or progressing into site management, our tutors combine practical industry experience with engaging, real-world learning.
Yes.
SMSTS is designed for construction site managers and covers a broader range of management responsibilities than SSSTS.
No.
You can enrol directly onto an SMSTS course if it is appropriate for your role.
Neither course is “better.”
They are designed for different responsibilities.
Choose the qualification that matches your current or future job role.
Usually, no.
If your certificate has expired, you may need to complete the full course again.
Yes.
Both are nationally recognised CITB Site Safety Plus qualifications accepted throughout the UK construction industry.
Whether you’re supervising a team or managing an entire construction project, Lighthouse Safety has a course to suit your role.
Available classrooms in Kent and London, or live online with experienced CITB-approved tutors.
Our team can also help you choose the right qualification if you’re unsure which course best suits your role.
Book online today or speak to our training advisors to find your next available course on 01634 260631.
Accreditations & Certifications
Membership
