SSSTS Refresher: A Guide
The responsibilities of a site supervisor in the construction industry are quite regularly evolving. Their training needs to be updated, especially when it comes to health and safety. So, if your Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) certification is nearing its expiry date of five years, you’re going to need to take the SSSTS Refresher.
In today’s blog, we’ll discuss the purpose of the Refresher training, who needs to renew their certification, the benefits of taking the course, the topics covered, and more.
What is the SSSTS Refresher?
The Refresher is a one-day training course. It was developed by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), and is specifically designed for site supervisors who have previously completed the full SSSTS, and whose certification is nearing expiry. It’s not a full retake; you’re simply receiving a focused, but comprehensive, update on the key principles of health and safety management.
Who Needs to Renew Their Qualification?
Anyone who holds the SSSTS and whose certification is due to expire needs to take the Refresher course. Otherwise, when their SSSTS expires, they’ll no longer be certified in site safety.
It’s important to book your place on a Refresher course within the six months leading up to your certification’s expiry. If you leave it too late and run out of time, you’ll need to retake the full course.
Benefits of Taking the SSSTS Refresher Course
The benefits of taking the Refresher are numerous, and extend to both the individual and the employer. For the individual, it ensures continued legal compliance, provides a formal way to update their knowledge, and gives them the confidence to manage a safe site.
For employers, the benefits are even more extensive. A supervisor who has completed the refresher course is a key asset who can reduce the risk of accidents, improve productivity, and demonstrate a commitment to safety. The refresher course also helps a company to meet its legal duties, and can be a powerful selling point when bidding for new business. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.
When Should You Complete Your Refresher Training?
The SSSTS certificate is valid for five years. If the certificate lapses, you must retake the full two-day SSSTS course to regain their qualification, which is both time-consuming and costly. Booking your refresher training early ensures that your qualification remains valid, and that you can continue to work as a competent supervisor without any interruptions to your career.
How the SSSTS Refresher Keeps Supervisors Up to Date
The construction industry is in a constant state of change. New technologies, materials, and methods are constantly emerging, and new health and safety legislation is introduced all the time. The Refresher is designed to keep supervisors up to date with these changes. The course content is updated by the CITB to reflect the latest legal and regulatory changes, and it also covers new best practices for risk assessment and management. This ensures that a supervisor’s knowledge isn’t static; it’s dynamic, and relevant to the modern construction industry.
Key Topics Covered in the Course
The course covers a wide range of key topics. It provides a review of a supervisor’s legal, moral, and social responsibilities, and it also covers any new or impending legislative changes that have been introduced in the last five years. The course also provides a review of risk assessment and method statements, and it delves into new best practices for managing site safety. Key topics include:
- Updates on Legal and Regulatory Changes: A review of new or amended health and safety laws and how they impact site operations.
- Effective Communication: A focus on effective strategies for communicating safety information and leading a team to adopt a positive safety culture.
- Risk Assessment and Method Statement Reinforcement: A practical review of these fundamental safety tools.
- Modern Site Hazards: An exploration of new or evolving risks, such as mental health issues or the use of new technologies on site.
The Value of a CITB-Approved SSSTS Refresher
When booking the course, it’s essential to choose a CITB-accredited provider. A non-accredited course is a waste of time and money, because the certificate won’t be recognised by employers or regulatory bodies. A CITB-approved training organisation has been vetted to ensure they meet the rigorous standards set by the industry.
How Long Does the Refresher Take?
The course takes one day, making it a time-efficient way to renew your qualification, which is a major benefit for busy professionals who need to fit their training around a demanding work schedule. The course can be completed over a single day, either in a classroom or as a live online course, depending on the provider. The one-day format makes it an accessible and affordable option for a professional who needs to renew their qualification quickly.
What to Expect from the One-Day Course
The course is an interactive, engaging one-day course. It’s designed to be a refresher, so it’ll build on a person’s existing knowledge. The course includes a mix of presentations, group discussions, and case studies, and it will be led by a qualified tutor who has extensive experience in the construction industry. The course concludes with a mandatory assessment designed to test a person’s knowledge of the course material. The course is a great way to meet other professionals, to network, and to share best practices for site safety.
Why Employers Insist on the SSSTS Refresher
Employers place a high value on the update course for a number of reasons. The course ensures that a supervisor is legally compliant, which reduces a company’s legal liability. It also shows a commitment to safety, which is attractive to clients and can be a powerful selling point when bidding for new business.
A supervisor who has completed the refresher course is a key asset who can reduce the risk of accidents, improve productivity, and ensure a high standard of work. The refresher course is a way for a company to ensure that its workforce is competent, confident, and up to date with the latest industry standards.
Online vs Classroom Options for Renewal
The choice between an online and classroom option for renewal is a matter of personal preference and circumstance. A traditional classroom course offers face-to-face interaction with the tutor and other professionals, which can be great for networking. An online course, on the other hand, provides greater flexibility, allowing you to train from your home.
How the SSSTS Refresher Supports Career Progression
The Refresher is a powerful tool for career progression. It ensures that a person’s SSSTS certificate remains valid, which is a key requirement for a site manager role. It also shows a commitment to professional development and a proactive approach to safety, which are qualities highly valued by employers. The refresher course is a way for a person to stay current with the latest industry standards and to position themselves for new job opportunities, promotions, and a higher salary. It’s a vital step in a professional’s long-term career plan.
Costs and Possible Funding Options
The cost of the course can vary depending on the provider and delivery format, but it’s typically a very cost-effective investment. Many employers are willing to fund the training for their staff, as they recognise its value in improving safety and productivity. For registered employers, there is also the option of a CITB grant to help with the cost of the course. This makes the SSSTS Refresher an accessible, affordable qualification for both individuals and companies.
The Benefits of Choosing CST Training for Your SSSTS Refresher
Choosing CST Training for your SSSTS Refresher means choosing a trusted provider with:
- Accredited, experienced trainers: Our trainers are industry experts who can provide real-world insights and guidance.
- Nationwide coverage: We bring the training closer to where you live and work, making it more accessible to professionals everywhere.
- Excellent learner support: We provide one-on-one support throughout your qualification, ensuring you have the guidance you need to succeed.
- Online flexibility: Our live virtual classrooms provide a convenient and flexible way to get your qualification.
We’re committed to making health and safety training accessible, practical, and impactful for every learner.
Next Steps After Completing the Refresher
After completing the Refresher, the next steps are to update your records, and continue to learn and develop new skills. The certificate is valid for five years, so you should make a note of the expiry date and plan your next refresher course in advance. The Refresher is a stepping stone to a more successful, rewarding career in the industry.
Conclusion (SSSTS Refresher: A Guide)
The course is a vital and practical qualification that empowers supervisors to be proactive leaders in safety. It’s a time-efficient investment that provides a comprehensive understanding of risk management, legal duties, and the practical application of safety principles. It’s a valuable asset that will not only enhance your career, but will also contribute to a safer and healthier working environment for everyone.
If you still have any questions regarding the course, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
Phone – 020 3488 4472
