Exploring the SMSTS Course: What You Need to Know
The CITB Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is the most highly regarded, industry-recognised qualification across the construction sector. This makes it a crucial certification for UK site managers looking to improve their knowledge and commitment to site safety.
In this guide, we’ll be explaining all you need to know about
the SMSTS course, including what it covers, the benefits and what to expect.
WHAT IS THE SMSTS
COURSE?
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)
Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is a five day training course
designed for construction site managers, supervisors, and anyone responsible
for managing health and safety on construction sites.
The SMSTS
course covers a broad spectrum of topics essential for effective site
management, including health and safety legislation, risk assessment, accident
prevention, and the implementation of control measures.
Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical
exercises, delegates gain a thorough understanding of their roles and
responsibilities in creating and maintaining a safe construction environment.
THE IMPORTANCE OF
SMSTS
HSE recently reported over 53,000 injuries on
construction sites, 45 of which were
fatal. This highlights just how important it is to have adequate site safety
training, such as the CITB SMSTS course.
For site managers, the 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. As well as enhancing their reputation,
this qualification contributes to a culture of safety that can significantly
reduce accidents and incidents on construction sites.
SMSTS COURSE
DURATION AND FORMAT
We deliver the SMSTS
course over five days, providing insights into the key health and safety
issues in the construction industry. This format is designed for those who can
commit to a full week of training.
However, if you’d prefer to minimise disruption to your busy
work schedule, we also offer a day release option. This alternative format
spreads the training over five weeks, allowing delegates to attend one day per
week.
Both formats aim to accommodate the diverse needs of site
managers, making sure they can successfully complete the course despite their
busy schedules.
KEY TOPICS COVERED
The SMSTS course covers a broad range of subjects crucial for
effective site management, including but not limited to:
·
Health and safety (facts
and figures, accident prevention)
·
Health and Safety and The
Manager
·
Health and safety and the
legal system in the UK
·
Working at Height
Regulations 2005
·
The Construction (Design
and Management) Regulations 2015
·
The Protective Equipment
Regulations 1992
·
RIDDOR
·
First Aid provision
·
Various legislation
·
Asbestos
·
Waste and environmental
management
·
Risk assessments and risk
management
·
Construction hazards
·
Occupational health
Through a mix of lectures, group discussions, and practical
exercises, the course ensures that delegates leave with a thorough
understanding of their health and safety responsibilities. With this knowledge,
they can maintain a safe working environment, reducing the risk of accidents
and penalties for non-compliance.
BENEFITS OF COMPLETING THE SMSTS COURSE
Career Advancement Opportunities
Earning an SMSTS certificate is a significant milestone for
professionals in the construction sector, particularly for those in or aspiring
to management roles. It tells current and future employers that you have a
comprehensive understanding of safety management practices.
Although not legally required, employers
typically require the SMSTS qualification for anyone seeking employment as a
site manager.
Legal
Compliance and Safety Management
One of the key benefits of the SMSTS
course is its in-depth focus on legal compliance and safety management. The
construction industry is controlled by strict health and safety regulations,
and failing to comply can result in penalties, including fines and legal
action.
The SMSTS course helps you to navigate these laws effectively so
that your practices are not only safe but legally compliant. You’ll learn about
the Health and Safety at Work Act, the Construction (Design and Management)
Regulations, and other relevant legislation, gaining the skills to implement
these standards on your projects.
This not only protects your workforce but also protects your
business against the reputational damage and financial costs associated with
non-compliance.
WHO SHOULD TAKE THE
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
·
Supervisors
·
Project Managers
·
Construction Business Owners
·
Health and Safety Advisors
COURSE DELIVERY
OPTIONS: CLASSROOM VS ONLINE
Gliss Training offers flexible delivery options for the SMSTS
course, including online and in-person SMSTS training.
Public Classroom SMSTS Training
Classroom based SMSTS courses are delivered in a physical
classroom environment with a CITB tutor and up to 20 delegates (dependent on
the training venue). This can either be delivered as a five day block or a
SMSTS Day Release. Both formats are available at our training venues nationwide.
Delegates can book for themselves, or companies can book on
behalf of their employees. You can book one or more places for an SMSTS course
online.
Public Online SMSTS Training
Our SMSTS
online course allows delegates to participate from anywhere
via Zoom, conveniently reducing the need for travel and accommodation
arrangements.
Online courses cover the same content as our classroom courses,
with a live trainer. Throughout the course, you can expect group discussions
which ensure delegates have the same opportunities to interact with each other
as they would in the classroom.
In-House SMSTS Training
Organisations looking to train multiple employees simultaneously
find in-house training most suitable, offering it as either online or in-person
training. This format suits companies aiming to uniformly train their site
managers and supervisors in health and safety.
One benefit of in-house training is the ability to tailor
examples to address specific challenges relevant to the company’s operations.
Additionally, in-house SMSTS fosters team building and a shared understanding
of safety practices among employees.
Finally, the scheduling is flexible, allowing companies to
choose timings that minimise disruption to their projects.
HOW TO BOOK YOUR
SMSTS COURSE
Enrolling on the SMSTS course is a straightforward process. If
you’re a delegate, you can book onto the course yourself. If you’re a company,
you can book one or more places on behalf of your employees.
Simply head over to our SMSTS
training course page where
you’ll find our next available course dates to choose from.
Choose
Your Preferred Course Delivery Option
Decide between online, in-house, or traditional classroom
training. Each option has its benefits, so consider what works best for your
schedule and learning style.
Select
a Course Date and Location
If you’re opting for in-person training, choose a location and
date that suits you. For online courses, you’ll only need to select the date,
as you can participate from anywhere.
Register
for the Course
Once you’ve chosen your course date and format, click on the
“Book” button on the course page. You’ll be prompted to fill in your details,
including your name and contact information.
Complete
the Payment Process
Follow the instructions to complete the payment for your course.
Confirmation
and Course Materials
You’ll receive a confirmation email with details about the
course, including how to access course materials if you’re attending online,
and the address and start times for in-person sessions.
Prepare
for Your Course
Make sure you have the necessary equipment for online learning
(a computer with internet access, a webcam, and a microphone) 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 the Gliss Training support team
for help.
SMSTS COURSE FAQS
What is the
SMSTS Course?
The CITB Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) course
is a comprehensive training program designed for construction site managers and
supervisors. It focuses on important aspects of health and safety regulations,
risk assessments, and effective site management practices.
How long is
the SMSTS Course?
The course is ideal for site managers, project managers, site
supervisors, business owners in the construction industry, and anyone
responsible for overseeing health and safety on construction sites.
Is the SMSTS
Course accredited?
Yes, the SMSTS course is accredited by the Construction Industry
Training Board (CITB) as part of their Site Safety Plus suite of courses,
ensuring it meets high standards of health and safety training.
How is the
SMSTS Training assessed?
The course assessment evaluates your participation throughout
the training and your performance in the four core exercises. The four
exercises include:
·
Implementing health and
safety legislation
·
Managers and supervisors
responsibilities
·
Construction site briefing
·
Construction site layout
On the last day, you will display a presentation in front of the
other group members and complete a multiple-choice exam.
What
certification do I receive upon completing the SMSTS Course?
Delegates successfully completing the
course receive a CITB SMSTS certificate valid for five years, after which they
must take a refresher course to maintain their certification.
Is there
funding or grants available for the SMSTS Course?
CITB registered companies can claim for each delegate who
successfully passes this course.
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