Temporary works play a critical role in construction safety. From formwork and falsework to scaffolding, hoardings and temporary propping, poorly managed temporary works remain a leading cause of serious incidents on UK construction sites.

Because of this risk, temporary works training is not something that should be chosen lightly. This guide explains what temporary works training is, who needs it, and how to identify a reputable UK training provider that delivers training aligned with current industry standards.

What Is Temporary Works Training?

Temporary works training is designed for construction professionals who have responsibilities for planning, supervising, checking or managing temporary structures during a construction project.

Training builds on a clear understanding of temporary works in construction and the risks associated with managing temporary structures on site.

These roles may include:

• Site supervisors
• Site managers
• Engineers
• Project managers
• Temporary Works Supervisors (TWS)
• Temporary Works Coordinators (TWC)

Training focuses on understanding:

• Legal responsibilities
• Risk management
• Design checks and approvals
• Site control procedures
• The safe coordination of temporary works activities

Why Temporary Works Training Is So Important

Temporary works failures often occur due to:

• Poor communication between teams
• Lack of understanding of roles and responsibilities
• Inadequate design checks
• Insufficient site supervision

Unlike permanent works, temporary works change frequently throughout a project. This makes clear control procedures and competent personnel essential.

A deeper understanding of temporary works risks and responsibilities helps explain why appropriate training is so important for site safety and project control.

Well-designed training helps ensure:

• Temporary works are properly planned and authorised
• Risks are identified and controlled
• Responsibilities are clearly defined
• Site teams understand when to stop work and escalate concerns

What Standards Should Temporary Works Training Follow?

In the UK, reputable temporary works training should be aligned with BS 5975, the recognised Code of Practice for the management of temporary works.

BS 5975 sets out:

• The temporary works management process
• Key duty holder roles
• Requirements for checking, coordination and control
• Best practice for reducing risk during temporary works activities

Reputable temporary works courses follow CITB-recognised course structures and explain how BS 5975 is applied on construction sites.

Further detail on temporary works training requirements can help employers and individuals understand how these standards are reflected in course content.

What Makes a Temporary Works Training Provider Reputable?

When choosing a temporary works training provider, you should look beyond availability and price. Reputable providers typically demonstrate the following:

✔ Alignment with Industry Standards

Training content should clearly reference BS 5975 principles and current industry guidance.

✔ Clear Role-Specific Outcomes

Good training explains who the course is for, what responsibilities it covers, and what learners should be able to do afterwards.

✔ Experienced Industry Trainers

Courses should be delivered by trainers with real construction and temporary works experience, not just classroom knowledge.

✔ Transparent Course Structure

Reputable providers clearly explain:

• Course duration
• Learning objectives
• Assessment methods
• Certification or recognition

✔ Practical, Site-Focused Content

Temporary works training should focus on real-world scenarios, not just theory.

What Is the Difference Between Temporary Works Supervisor and Coordinator Training?

Understanding the difference between roles is key when selecting training.

Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS)

TWS training is aimed at those who supervise temporary works on site and ensure that procedures set by the coordinator are followed correctly.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Ensuring site controls are implemented
• Monitoring temporary works activities
• Reporting issues or deviations

More detail on Temporary Works Supervisor training can help confirm whether this role aligns with your responsibilities.

Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC)

TWC training is aimed at those who plan, manage and coordinate temporary works across a project.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Implementing the temporary works procedure
• Coordinating design checks and approvals
• Ensuring responsibilities are clearly assigned
• Authorising temporary works activities

Employers often have specific expectations of this role, which are explored in what employers expect from a TWC.

Choosing the correct course depends on the individual’s role and level of responsibility.

Can Temporary Works Training Be Delivered Online?

Temporary works training can be delivered online or face to face, provided it is delivered by a competent provider using interactive methods that allow understanding and engagement to be assessed effectively.

At Essential Site Skills, all CITB Temporary Works courses are available via live online delivery as well as face-to-face, giving employers and individuals flexibility while maintaining the required standards.

Reputable providers will be clear about:

• How online sessions are delivered and facilitated

• How learner understanding and participation are assessed

• How the course meets the requirements of the relevant CITB course structure

Further answers to common delivery questions can also be found in temporary works training FAQs.

How Long Does Temporary Works Training Take?

Course duration depends on the course type and whether you are completing a full course, refresher, or online learning:

• Temporary Works General Awareness (TWGATC) is available as a free online e-learning course, allowing learners to complete it at their own pace
• Temporary Works Supervisor (TWSTC) is 1 day
• Temporary Works Coordinator (TWCTC) is 2 days
• Temporary Works Coordinator Refresher (TWCTC-R) is 1 day

A reputable provider will always confirm the delivery method, duration, learning outcomes and any pre-course requirements before booking.

Can You Recommend Reputable Providers for Temporary Works Training?

In the UK, reputable temporary works training providers deliver courses aligned with BS 5975 and recognised industry guidance, with clear learning outcomes for supervisors, coordinators and managers.

Providers should demonstrate:

• Strong understanding of temporary works management
• Alignment with recognised industry standards
• Practical, role-specific training delivery

Essential Site Skills delivers Temporary Works training designed for construction supervisors, coordinators and managers, with a strong focus on compliance, clarity of responsibility and real-world site application. Training is supported by wider temporary works guidance and resources to help learners continue developing their competence beyond the course itself.

Key Considerations When Selecting a Temporary Works Training Provider

Temporary works training is a critical investment in site safety and project control. Choosing a reputable provider helps ensure:

• Legal responsibilities are understood
• Risks are properly managed
• Temporary works procedures are followed correctly

When selecting a provider, always look for standards-led content, experienced trainers, and clear explanations — not just course availability.

Unsure Which Course Is Right for You?

If you are unsure which temporary works role or course aligns with your responsibilities, seek advice before booking to ensure the training matches your duties and project needs.