What Is the SSSTS Course and Who Needs It?
If you’re looking to move up the ladder in the construction industry, chances are you’ve heard of the SSSTS course. But what exactly is it, and who is it designed for?
In this post, we’ll break down what the SSSTS course involves, who should take it, and why it’s a vital step for anyone aiming to take on more responsibility on-site.
What Does SSSTS Stand For?
SSSTS stands for Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme. It’s a CITB-accredited course specifically designed for those who are either already working as site supervisors or are about to step into that role.
The aim of the course is simple: to ensure that supervisors understand their responsibilities when it comes to health and safety on a construction site. Supervisors are often the first line of defence when it comes to spotting hazards, enforcing safety protocols, and keeping workers safe – so it’s crucial they’re properly trained.
What Does the SSSTS Course Cover?
The course content focuses on a range of health, safety, welfare, and environmental issues that supervisors may encounter day-to-day. Some of the key topics include:
Understanding the legal duties of a supervisor
Risk assessments and method statements
Health and safety management systems
Behavioural safety
Toolbox talks and site inductions
Working at height, manual handling, and PPE
It’s a very practical course, with real-world examples and interactive discussions, making it highly relevant for anyone working on-site.
How Long Is the Course?
The SSSTS course is delivered over two days. It’s typically taught in a classroom setting, but there are also options to take the course online, which is ideal for those who need more flexibility.
Who Needs to Take the SSSTS Course?
This course is ideal for:
Newly appointed site supervisors
Experienced workers moving into supervisory roles
Team leaders or foremen
Subcontractors overseeing teams on-site
Essentially, if you’re responsible for managing others on-site – even just a small team – this qualification helps prove you’re capable of leading safely and within the law.
Do You Need Any Prior Qualifications?
No prior qualifications are required to take the SSSTS course. However, you should have some experience working in the construction industry, as the course is designed for those who already understand the basic workings of a construction site.
Is the SSSTS Certificate Recognised?
Absolutely. The SSSTS certificate is nationally recognised across the UK and is widely accepted by construction firms, principal contractors, and clients as proof that you understand your health and safety duties as a supervisor.
Once you complete the course and pass the multiple-choice exam at the end, you’ll receive a certificate that’s valid for five years.
Why Take the SSSTS Course?
Taking the SSSTS course shows that you take your responsibilities seriously. It can help you:
Secure a supervisory position
Gain respect and credibility on-site
Ensure the safety of your team
Meet the requirements of clients and contractors
Most importantly, it gives you the tools and knowledge to prevent accidents before they happen.
Final Thoughts
The SSSTS course isn’t just a tick-box exercise – it’s a practical and respected qualification that plays a crucial role in keeping construction sites safe. Whether you’re a new supervisor or preparing to step up into a leadership role, it’s a smart move for your career and for the people working around you.
If you’re ready to book your SSSTS course, check out our upcoming dates or get in touch with our team for more information.
