Can You Run a Site Without SMSTS?
Health and safety are crucial in the construction industry, and this is particularly true for site managers. Anyone who’s in charge of a site must be suitably trained and qualified, which is exactly why so many site managers, and prospective site managers, undertake the Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS). But can you run a site without SMSTS training?
While it’s not technically a legal requirement for site managers to acquire the SMSTS certification, you are unlikely to be hired as a site manager without it.
Why is SMSTS Training So Crucial for Site Managers?
SMSTS is the foundational pillar for maintaining high health and safety standards on construction sites. The training covers all the key knowledge required to maintain those standards, ensuring that sites run as smoothly, and as safely, as possible. It’s not just a certification to help site managers get hired; SMSTS is designed to minimise the risk of accidents, and boost productivity, on sites.
Can You Run a Site Without SMSTS?
While the law doesn’t require an SMSTS qualification for site managers, it’s widely expected in the industry, and many employers won’t consider candidates for site management roles unless they’ve completed the course.
Which Qualifications Are Required to Become a Site Manager?
Again, while it’s not strictly a legal requirement, you are unlikely to be hired as a site manager if you don’t also have a black CSCS card. This card will essentially act as proof that you have acquired the necessary site management training. More and more companies and contractors are making the black CSCS card, and SMSTS, a requirement when hiring site managers.
To apply for a black CSCS card, you’ll first need to undertake a relevant construction NVQ (National Vocational Qualification).
Is SMSTS Different from SSSTS?
SMSTS and SSSTS are two different qualifications. SMSTS is intended for site managers or those moving into a management role, while SSSTS (Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme) is aimed at team leaders and supervisors. SSSTS is a step below SMSTS, and focuses on more basic safety responsibilities.
Can You Do SMSTS Training Online?
You can take the training online, or in-person. The online version offers the same comprehensive curriculum as the in-person training, and comes with the additional benefit of flexibility. If your schedule is too busy to attend a physical classroom for five days (which is how long SMSTS takes), you should still be able to acquire the certification from home.
Conclusion: Can You Run a Site Without SMSTS Training?
Site managers are not legally required to hold the SMSTS certification, but they are legally required to ensure the utmost safety in the workplace. The risks of managing a construction site without SMSTS (namely a higher risk of accidents, and legal action) far outweigh the cost, and time, of acquiring the certification.
If you still have any questions regarding SMSTS training, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
Phone – 020 3488 4472
