Understanding the Difference Between SSSTS and SMSTS Courses

Making the Right Choice for You

There are so many courses out there for construction professionals, and choosing the right one for you can feel a little daunting. Two of the most popular courses are the SMSTS and SSSTS, and both have their own unique advantages. Here‘s everything you need to know about the two, so you can make a truly informed decision. We’ll also look at why, no matter which course you choose, working with the provider of the SMSTS or SSSTS courses London delegates love is essential.

Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS)

This course is aimed at construction operatives who already have, or are about to acquire, supervisory responsibilities. It will give you a solid understanding of health, safety, welfare, environmental and legal issues. It highlights the importance of promoting safety in order to carry out a supervisory role properly. During the course, you will learn how to:

• Understand the problems in the industry.
• Understand how health and safety law is structured and how it applies to someone in your position.
• Identify how your supervisory role fits in with the management structure in controlling safely on site.
• Carry out risk assessments and understand the need for method statements.
• Carry out effective site inductions, toolbox talks and method statement briefings.
• Monitor site activities effectively.
• Understand the importance of timely intervention if bad practice is identified.

Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS)

In comparison, the SMSTS course is aimed at construction operatives who already have, or are about to acquire site management responsibilities. It gives attendees an understanding of planning, organising, monitoring, controlling and administering construction site safety. Once you have completed the course, you should know how to:

• Manage health and safety on site, in line with current laws and the specifications of your role.
• Understand your duties regarding legal, moral, social and welfare obligations.
• Demonstrate awareness that a safe site is more economical, productive and efficient.
• Implement health and safety and environmental and welfare legislation that is relevant to a construction site.
• Understand and know how to implement new guidance and best practice.
• Prepare risk assessments and method statements.

Key Differences

While both courses share similar objectives, there are some notable distinctions. As we’ve already stated, the SSSTS caters to supervisors, whereas SMSTS is for site managers. An SSSTS course spans two days while SMSTS requires five full days of attendance. While both courses address core safety concepts, SMSTS dives deeper into regulatory matters and advanced safety strategies – which is reflected in its longer length.

Whichever Program You Choose, Work With a Good Training Provider

Regardless of whether you select SSSTS or SMSTS, working with a great training provider is crucial. Look for accredited providers that have a proven track record delivering the course of your choice, and don’t be afraid to get in touch to find out more about their instructors and how the course is delivered. Working with a trusted training centre is also the easiest way to ensure that you will receive a genuine, official qualification at the end of the course.

What to Do Next

You know now how the SSSTS and SMSTS courses differ – so which one will you choose? Don’t delay, book your place on a course today!