When Do I Need to Take an SMSTS Refresher?
For construction site managers, the Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) certificate is a cornerstone of professional credibility and site access. This vital qualification demonstrates a manager’s competence in upholding health, safety, and environmental standards. But the SMSTS certificate doesn’t last forever- so when exactly do you need to take an SMSTS Refresher course?
The Five-Year Validity Period
Your initial SMSTS certificate, or any subsequent Refresher certificate, is valid for a period of five years from the date of issue. This five-year cycle is specifically designed by CITB to ensure that site managers’ knowledge remains current. Given the dynamic nature of the construction industry, with constant updates to legislation, new technologies, and evolving best practices, a five-year window helps prevent outdated safety knowledge from becoming a risk on site.
Booking Your SMSTS Refresher Proactively
To maintain continuous validity of your SMSTS certificate and avoid any lapse in qualification, you must complete your Refresher course before your current certificate expires. It’s highly recommended that you book your refresher well in advance of the expiry date, ideally within the last couple of months of your certificate’s validity.
What if You Don’t Renew on Time?
If you fail to complete your Refresher course before your current certificate’s expiry date, you will no longer be eligible to take the two-day refresher. In such a scenario, you would be required to re-take the full 5-day SMSTS course from the beginning. This can be significantly more time-consuming and costly, potentially leading to periods where you cannot fulfil your site management duties due to lack of valid certification.
Conclusion: When Do I Need to Take an SMSTS Refresher?
You need to take a Refresher course every five years, before your existing certificate expires. Proactive planning and booking within the final six months of your certificate’s validity will ensure continuous compliance, safeguard your site access, and demonstrate your ongoing commitment to health and safety leadership in construction.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Do I Need to Take an SMSTS Refresher?
You need to take an SMSTS Refresher course every five years, before your existing certificate expires.
If you still have any questions regarding the course, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
Phone – 020 3488 4472
