Every site supervisor and manager on a construction site carries both a moral and a legal responsibility for the safety of their workforce. You’re there to make sure work is properly planned and monitored, and to do everything possible so no one is hurt on the job. The health and safety of the site rests with you — and a big part of the role is being a visible role model who promotes safe working and leads by example.
The supervisor’s duty
Plan and monitor the work, watch over the safety of the team, and set the tone. On site, safe behaviour is led from the top — your standards become the team’s standards. To carry that responsibility well, you need the right knowledge and skills.
The SSSTS: training for the role
Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS)
The SSSTS is the CITB-accredited course that gives supervisors the skills to manage health and safety on site — and it’s now required by all major contractor groups for supervisors working on their sites. It’s equally suited to anyone working toward a supervisory role in construction.
Pass the exam and you’re awarded a CITB Site Supervisor Safety Training certificate and card — proof of your health and safety knowledge and your ability to provide competent leadership that reduces risk on site.
Risk assessments in construction
One of the most important topics the SSSTS covers is risk assessment — because construction carries so many hazards that need actively managing:
Working at height
Risk of falls, and of tools or materials dropping onto workers below. See working at height guidance.
Power tools & machinery
A hazard when used incorrectly or poorly maintained.
Manual handling
Injuries from unsafe lifting and carrying of heavy objects.
Hazardous materials
Chemicals and asbestos require careful, controlled handling.
With so many potential dangers, it’s vital that supervisors take ownership of health and safety. The SSSTS teaches you how to do exactly that.
What the SSSTS teaches you
How to carry out risk assessments in the construction workplace and put control measures in place.
How to communicate effectively, so the whole team understands and follows safe practices.
How to monitor control measures and make sure work is carried out in line with the risk assessments.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between the SSSTS and the SMSTS?
How long is the SSSTS valid, and how do I renew it?
Five years. Before it expires, take the 1-day SSSTS Refresher to requalify for another five years.
Do I need experience before taking the SSSTS?
It’s designed for current supervisors and those working toward the role. Completing the CITB Health & Safety Awareness course first can be a helpful foundation, but it isn’t required.
How is the SSSTS assessed?
By a 30-question multiple-choice exam at the end of the course. Pass it and you receive the CITB certificate and card.