Are CITB Courses Hard?
In the construction sector, training courses are often vital for keeping your skills and knowledge up to date, relevant, and in line with industry standards. Many of the most widely recognised courses are CITB courses, such as the SMSTS, the SSSTS, Temporary Works Coordinator and Supervisor, the HSA course, and the SEATS course. But are these courses difficult?
The answer varies depending on the course. So, in today’s blog, we’ll be breaking down what tends to constitute ‘hard’ when it comes to construction training, and more.
Defining “Hard”: What Does It Mean for a Qualification?
Before we delve into the perceived difficulty of these courses, it’s important to define what “hard” actually tends to mean in the context of a professional qualification. Is it about the sheer volume of information? The complexity of the concepts? The intensity of the assessment, or the time commitment required? For a lot of candidates, ‘hard’ equates to the challenge of balancing study with work and personal life, or the pressure of a timed examination. Ultimately, difficulty is subjective, but we can explore objective elements that contribute to how challenging a course might be for the average learner.
The Spectrum of Difficulty Across CITB Courses
CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) offers a number of different courses, all of which are catered to specific roles and levels of responsibility in the industry. Across the CITB range, there’s a spectrum of difficulty. For example, a one-day course for beginner construction workers will inherently be less demanding than a course that lasts multiple days and is designed for construction site managers. But it all depends on the level you’re currently at- and the level you’re working towards.
Understanding the SMSTS
The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is arguably one of the most well-known and respected CITB qualifications. Designed for site managers, project managers, and supervisors, this five-day course delves deep into health and safety legislation, risk management, and the legal duties of a manager on a construction site.
The course culminates in a multiple-choice exam and requires active participation throughout. While the exam is thorough, it’s not designed to trick candidates. With diligent attendance and engagement, the vast majority of learners pass. The “challenge” often lies in the volume of information, and the responsibility associated with the role the qualification prepares you for.
Assessing the Rigor of CITB Courses: SMSTS & SSSTS
Both the SMSTS and its supervisory counterpart, the Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS), are considered rigorous. The SSSTS is a two-day course aimed at those with supervisory responsibilities. It covers essential health and safety topics relevant to site supervisors, including risk assessments, method statements, and toolbox talks. Like the SMSTS, it concludes with a multiple-choice exam, with a requirement to correctly answer “safety critical” questions. The pass rate for SSSTS is generally high, indicating that while comprehensive, it’s certainly achievable with proper engagement. The rigor comes from the critical nature of the information, and its direct application to site safety.
Navigating the SSSTS
From a supervisor’s perspective, the SSSTS is a vital qualification that formalises their understanding of health and safety responsibilities. It’s less about strategic management and more about practical, day-to-day supervision. The course is designed to be accessible, even for those with limited prior health and safety training, provided they pay attention and participate. The “difficulty” for some might be the shift from purely operational tasks to understanding the legal and moral obligations of a supervisor.
Are CITB Courses Like Temporary Works Coordinator & Supervisor Demanding?
Specialised courses, such as the Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) and Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS), address specific, high-risk areas within construction. These courses are designed for individuals who will be directly involved in the planning, design, and supervision of temporary works. Given the critical nature of temporary works in preventing structural failures and accidents, these courses are inherently demanding. They require a strong understanding of engineering principles, risk assessment, and legal compliance specific to temporary structures. While not as broad in scope as the SMSTS, their depth in a specialised field makes them challenging for those without relevant experience or a keen eye for detail.
The HSA Green CSCS Card Course
At the other end of the spectrum is the CITB Health and Safety Awareness (HSA) course, often a prerequisite for obtaining the Green CSCS Labourer Card. This is a one-day introductory course designed for new entrants to the construction industry. It covers fundamental health and safety principles, common site hazards, and the importance of individual responsibility. The assessment typically involves a multiple-choice test. Compared to management or specialised courses, the HSA is considered relatively straightforward, focusing on awareness rather than in-depth application or management. Its purpose is to provide a basic understanding, typically making it the least “hard” of the CITB offerings.
Comparing the Accessibility of Different CITB Courses
The accessibility of the courses varies not just by content but also by the mode of delivery. Many courses are available as traditional classroom-based learning, virtual classrooms, or online e-learning. E-learning often provides the most flexibility and can be the most cost-effective. Classroom and virtual options offer direct interaction with instructors and peers, which can be beneficial for those who thrive in a more structured and interactive environment.
SEATS: Environmental Awareness
The Site Environmental Awareness Training Scheme (SEATS) is another important CITB course, focusing on environmental protection on construction sites. This one-day course covers environmental legislation, pollution prevention, waste management, and sustainable construction practices. While not directly related to physical safety in the same way as SMSTS or SSSTS, it addresses critical environmental responsibilities. The “difficulty” lies in understanding the environmental impact of construction activities and implementing effective control measures.
Preparation Strategies for All CITB Courses
Regardless of the specific course, effective preparation is paramount to success. This includes:
- Taking Mock Tests: Practicing with mock exams, especially timed ones, helps familiarise you with the format and identify areas for improvement.
- Active Participation: Engaging in discussions and asking questions during the course helps solidify understanding.
- Consistent Study: Avoid cramming; spread out your revision over a period of time.
The Role of Prior Experience in Course Perceived Difficulty
Your existing knowledge and experience in the construction industry play a significant role in how “hard” a CITB course feels. For someone with years of on-site experience, many of the concepts in SMSTS or SSSTS might be familiar, making the learning process more about formalising existing knowledge and understanding the legal frameworks. Conversely, a new entrant with no prior construction background might find even the HSA course challenging as they grapple with entirely new terminology and practices.
The Practical Application Focus of CITB Courses
A key characteristic of these courses is their emphasis on practical application. They are not purely theoretical; they aim to equip learners with the skills and knowledge to implement health, safety, and environmental best practices on site. This practical focus means that simply memorising facts isn’t enough; you need to understand how to apply the principles in real-world scenarios. This can be a source of “difficulty” for those who prefer purely academic learning, but it’s also what makes these qualifications so valuable.
Effective Learning Approaches for CITB Courses
To maximize your chances of success and minimise the perceived difficulty, consider these learning approaches:
- Interactive Learning: Engage with trainers and fellow delegates. Group discussions and real-life scenario analyses can deepen understanding.
- Note-Taking: Actively taking notes helps with information retention and provides a personalised study guide.
- Scenario-Based Thinking: Many assessments involve scenario-based questions, so practice applying your knowledge to hypothetical situations.
- Breaks and Refreshers: For longer courses, regular breaks and revisiting material are essential to prevent burnout.
The Value of Certification: Is the Effort Justified?
Despite any perceived difficulty, the value of CITB certification is undeniable. These qualifications are widely recognized and highly respected within the construction industry, both in the UK and internationally. They demonstrate a commitment to safety, enhance professional credibility, improve employability, and can lead to career progression. For employers, having a workforce with CITB qualifications ensures legal compliance, reduces incidents, and fosters a stronger safety culture. The investment of time and effort almost always yields significant returns.
Overall Difficulty of CITB Courses
Ultimately, the difficulty of these courses is relative. They are designed to be challenging enough to ensure competence but achievable with proper preparation and engagement. The more advanced courses, like SMSTS and the Temporary Works qualifications, demand a higher level of understanding and responsibility. Introductory courses, like HSA, are more about foundational awareness.
Conclusion: Are CITB Courses Hard?
While these courses require dedication, active participation, and effective preparation, they are far from insurmountable, and plenty of candidates pass them first time. They are meticulously designed to equip construction professionals with essential health, safety, and environmental knowledge and skills. The difficulty is a measure of the valuable learning and development they provide, ensuring that those who achieve these certifications are truly capable of contributing to a safer and more efficient construction industry. With the right mindset and approach, you can confidently tackle any CITB course, and reap the significant career benefits it offers.
If you still have any questions regarding the courses, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
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