SMSTS vs SSSTS: If you work in construction and want to progress your career while staying compliant with health and safety regulations, you’ve likely come across two key qualifications. But which course is right for your role?
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between the two, who each course is designed for, and how to choose the one that will best support your development.
What Is the SMSTS Course?
The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is a 5-day course aimed at site managers, project managers, and senior supervisory staff. It provides an in-depth understanding of health and safety legislation, CDM regulations, risk assessments, method statements, and the legal duties of a site manager.
Key Details:
- Duration: 5 Days
- Valid For: 5 Years
- Includes: Legal responsibilities, site set-up, environmental management, and supervisory leadership
- Who It's For: Site managers or those progressing into management
Already taken the full course and need to renew? View our SMSTS Refresher course.
What Is the SSSTS Course?
The Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) is a 2-day course designed for site supervisors, team leaders, and those taking on supervisory duties. It covers the essentials of managing a team safely and legally.
Key Details:
- Duration: 2 Days
- Valid For: 5 Years
- Includes: Toolbox talks, risk assessments, health and safety law, supervisory responsibilities
- Who It's For: Working supervisors or operatives moving into a supervisory role
Need to renew your SSSTS qualification? Book a place on our SSSTS Refresher course.
SMSTS vs SSSTS: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | SMSTS | SSSTS |
|---|---|---|
| Suitable For | Site/project managers | Site supervisors/team leaders |
| Duration | 5 Days | 2 Days |
| Responsibility Level | Strategic and operational | Day-to-day site supervision |
| Course Depth | Advanced legal and environmental duties | Core supervisory skills |
| Refresher Available | ✅ SMSTS Refresher | ✅ SSSTS Refresher |
Which Course Should You Take - SMSTS vs SSSTS?
Choose SSSTS if:
- You supervise a team on-site
- You’re taking your first step into leadership
- You need to understand health and safety responsibilities at a supervisory level
Choose SMSTS if:
- You manage entire construction sites or projects
- You are (or plan to be) a site or project manager
- You need to understand site-wide compliance, regulations, and leadership
Can You Progress from SSSTS to SMSTS?
Yes, many professionals start with SSSTS and later progress to SMSTS as they move into more senior roles. Both courses are CITB-approved and recognised across the UK construction industry.
Why Book with Target Zero?
At Target Zero Training, we offer both SMSTS and SSSTS courses nationwide with flexible in-person and online options. Our instructors have real-world construction experience, and we support you all the way to passing.
✔ CITB Accredited
✔ High Pass Rates
✔ Remote and Classroom Options
✔ UK-Wide Locations
Book Your CITB Course Today
Whether you're ready to take on more responsibility or move into a site management role, we’ve got the right training for you.
Browse every scheduled date, or let us shortlist the right qualification.