If you're working in the construction industry and preparing to step into a supervisory role, you've likely come across the SSSTS course. But what exactly is it, and why is it such a vital qualification for site supervisors in the UK?
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the SSSTS Course, including who it’s for, what it covers, and how you can complete it online or in person.
What Is the SSSTS Course?
The SSSTS Course stands for Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme. It’s a CITB-accredited, two-day training programme designed to provide site supervisors with a comprehensive understanding of health, safety, welfare, and environmental issues on a construction site.
The course is tailored for:
- First-time supervisors
- Team leaders
- Skilled workers stepping into managerial roles
- Site operatives looking to upskill
Explore our CITB SSSTS Course options
Why Is the Course Important?
Construction sites are high-risk environments. Supervisors have a legal and moral duty to maintain safe practices and manage their teams responsibly. The course ensures supervisors are equipped with:
- Legal knowledge under the Health and Safety at Work Act
- Skills to conduct toolbox talks and site inductions
- Hazard identification and risk assessment techniques
- Awareness of environmental factors on site
- Understanding of behavioural safety
Completing the course is often a requirement from major contractors and is recognised across the UK construction sector.
Can You Do the Course Online?
Yes — the course online is just as valid and CITB-approved as the classroom version. Delivered live via Zoom, it covers all the same content and includes interactive activities, discussions, and a final exam.
Online training is ideal if you want:
- To save travel time
- More flexible scheduling
- To train from home or office
What Happens After You Complete the Course?
Once you pass the final multiple-choice test, you’ll receive a CITB SSSTS certificate, valid for 5 years. You can then:
- Progress in your career as a certified site supervisor
- Apply for a gold CSCS Supervisor card (with the relevant NVQ)
- Refresh your qualification with a 1-day SSSTS Refresher course before expiry
Join thousands of professionals across the UK who’ve advanced their careers with our CITB course.
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