SSSTS Online: What Do You Learn?
For site supervisors in construction, strong safety leadership is essential. The industry continues to tighten expectations around compliance, competency, and accountability, which means supervisors must be equipped to manage risks and support a safe site culture. The Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS Online) is one of the most recognised routes for doing so- but what exactly do you learn on the course?
Understanding the Role of a Site Supervisor
The course begins by focusing on your responsibilities as a supervisor. Rather than simply following instructions, supervisors are expected to lead by example and influence the safety behaviour of others on site. You learn where your role fits into the wider management structure and what is expected of you under UK health and safety law.
This part of the course helps you understand accountability, communication, and how your decisions can make the difference between a safe working environment and one where hazards go unnoticed. It sets a strong foundation for the rest of the programme.
How SSSTS Online Builds Legal and Safety Awareness
SSSTS gives you a clear understanding of the legislation that governs construction safety, including the Health and Safety at Work Act, regulations for working at height, and your duties under CDM (Construction Design and Management) regulations.
The goal is not to turn supervisors into legal experts, but to ensure you know your responsibilities, can spot non-compliance, and understand what must be done to meet legal and company standards. By learning this early in the course, you’re better prepared to plan work safely, and support your team with confidence.
Key Site Hazards and How to Control Them
A major part of the training focuses on identifying risks and putting effective controls in place. You learn how to carry out or contribute to risk assessments, develop method statements, and implement safe systems of work.
The course covers common construction hazards such as:
Working at height
Moving vehicles
Electricity
Excavations
Manual handling
Hazardous substances
Why SSSTS Online Strengthens Leadership and Communication
The training also focuses on the human side of supervision, something that’s often overlooked. A safe site relies not only on paperwork, but on people, behaviour, and communication. You learn how to brief workers effectively, deliver toolbox talks, and encourage a positive safety culture.
This includes:
Challenging unsafe actions correctly
Motivating workers to follow rules
Leading by example
Creating an environment where people speak up
Conclusion (SSSTS Online: What Do You Learn?)
The course teaches supervisors how to lead safely, follow the law, control hazards, and communicate effectively. It develops both knowledge and confidence, helping you understand your responsibilities and giving you the tools to manage real-world risks on site.
The course goes far beyond ticking a compliance box. It prepares you to influence behaviour, raise standards, and play an active role in protecting your team.
