Is the SMSTS Refresher a Legal Requirement?

For construction site managers and supervisors, maintaining strong safety standards is a key part of the role. The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) Refresher course, accredited by the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board), is designed to ensure that managers continue to uphold health and safety best practices and comply with the latest regulations. But while it’s obviously important, is the SMSTS Refresher a legal requirement? We’ll be answering this question, and a few others questions regarding the Refresher course, in today’s blog.

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Is the SMSTS Refresher Required By Law?

The short answer is no. The Refresher is not explicitly required by law. The UK’s health and safety legislation, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, doesn’t mandate any specific training course by name. Instead, it requires employers to ensure that those managing construction projects are “competent” and equipped to identify, manage, and mitigate risks.

While there’s no legal requirement to complete an SMSTS or the Refresher course, it’s widely regarded as an industry standard. Most employers look for or require this certification to demonstrate compliance with regulations such as the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM). These regulations place significant responsibilities on site managers to oversee safety, and the SMSTS is one of the best qualifications to help professionals meet these expectations.

Why the Refresher is Vital for Compliance

Although not legally mandated, completing the Refresher plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with legal duties. Construction site managers must remain up to date with the latest legislative changes, best practices, and risk management techniques to effectively protect their teams, and the public.

Refresher courses are there to make sure that managers stay informed about updates to key legislation such as CDM regulations, working at height guidelines, and asbestos management requirements. Without this knowledge, a site manager might inadvertently fail to comply with legal expectations, exposing themselves and their employer to potential fines, legal action, or significant reputational damage.

Example: imagine a site manager overlooking the scheduling of risk assessments, or failing to provide proper PPE instructions because they were unaware of recent updates to workplace safety laws. Such lapses can result in workplace accidents, safety investigations, and even site closures. Taking the Refresher helps managers avoid these pitfalls, by keeping their knowledge current, and practical.

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What are the Benefits of Taking the Refresher Course?

Beyond compliance and professional development, the SMSTS Refresher offers significant benefits for both individuals and their employers. Here are just a few:

The SMSTS Refresher Boosts Team Confidence

When managers are confident in their health and safety knowledge, it resonates across the entire team. Workers are more likely to adopt safe practices when they see strong, informed leadership on-site.

The SMSTS Refresher Reduces Risks and Costs

Sites with well-trained managers experience fewer incidents and accidents, leading to lower injury rates, reduced downtime, and fewer insurance claims. Investing in the Refresher can ultimately save time, and money, for construction firms.

Supporting Your Career Growth

Completing the SMSTS Refresher demonstrates a commitment to professional growth and career advancement, helping individuals position themselves for senior roles or greater responsibilities.

Conclusion: Is the SMSTS Refresher a Legal Requirement?

While the Refresher is not legally required in the UK, it’s become a vital component of professional competence in the construction industry. By taking this course, you’re not only ensuring legal compliance and site safety, but you’re also strengthening your career prospects and protecting your company’s reputation. In a field as high-risk as construction, staying informed and certified is always an ideal move.

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