5 Key Tips for the SMSTS Refresher
The SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) certificate is a vital qualification for anyone managing health and safety on a construction site. But it has an expiry date, which is five years. As that deadline approaches, the question isn’t just if you need a refresher, but how to make the most of that refresher. The SMSTS Refresher course is more than just a formality; it’s an essential opportunity to update your knowledge, stay compliant, and ultimately, ensure a safer working environment.
Why the SMSTS Refresher is Essential
The construction industry is dynamic, with regulations, tech, and best practices continually evolving. What was current five years ago might not be current today. The Refresher serves as a critical checkpoint, ensuring that your understanding of health and safety legislation, risk management, and site procedures remains up-to-date.
Without this course, your qualification lapses, potentially impacting your ability to fulfil your role and your site’s compliance with legal requirements.
Getting the Most Out of the Refresher Experience
To truly benefit from the Refresher, approach it with an open mind and a willingness to engage. This isn’t just about ticking a box; it’s about consolidating existing knowledge and absorbing new information. Participate actively in discussions, share your own site experiences, and ask questions. The collective experience in the room (whether virtual or physical) is a valuable resource. Take notes, even on topics you feel familiar with, as a fresh perspective or a nuanced point could be highlighted.
Revisiting Core Principles of the SMSTS
The Refresher will naturally revisit the foundational principles of the original course, but often with an emphasis on current interpretations and recent case studies. This includes topics like the Health and Safety at Work Act, the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM 2015), risk assessments, method statements, and effective communication on site. Pay particular attention to any areas where you feel your knowledge might have become rusty, or where new guidance has emerged.
Tips for Passing Your SMSTS Refresher Assessment
While the assessment is designed to confirm your understanding rather than catch you out, a little preparation goes a long way. Listen carefully to your instructor’s guidance throughout the course, as they will often highlight key areas. Engage with any revision materials provided by the training provider. Most importantly, understand the ‘why’ behind the regulations and best practices- not just the ‘what’.
Staying Current with Health and Safety Regulations
Beyond the course itself, the SMSTS-R course will be a significant reminder of the ongoing need to stay current with health and safety regulations. The legislative landscape can shift, which is why you should make it a habit to regularly check resources from organisations like the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and industry bodies such as the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
Conclusion: 5 Key Tips for the SMSTS Refresher
Don’t leave it until the last minute. Book in your Refresher, and keep your skills sharp. It’s not just a renewal; it’s a vital update that equips you with the most current knowledge to tackle the ever-evolving challenges of site management, ensuring safety remains paramount on every project.
If you still have any questions regarding the course, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
Phone – 020 3488 4472
