If you work in construction and are responsible for people on site, you may be wondering whether you need SMSTS or SSSTS. Both courses are part of the Site Safety Plus scheme and are widely recognised across the UK construction industry, but they are designed for different roles and levels of responsibility.

Understanding the difference between SMSTS and SSSTS is important. Choosing the wrong course can leave you underqualified for your role or spending time on a course that does not match your responsibilities.

This guide explains the key differences and helps you decide which course is right for you.

If you are considering the SMSTS route, you may also want to read our full guide SMSTS Course Explained: Is It Mandatory for Site Managers?, which covers course duration, validity and refresher requirements in more detail.

What Is the Difference Between SMSTS and SSSTS?

The main difference between SMSTS vs SSSTS comes down to level of responsibility.

Both courses focus on managing health, safety and environmental issues on construction sites, but they are aimed at different positions within a site management structure.

In simple terms:

• SSSTS is designed for supervisors
• SMSTS is designed for managers

What Is the SSSTS Course?

The Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) is designed for those who directly supervise work on site.

This course is suitable if you:

• Supervise workers or subcontractors
• Are responsible for enforcing site rules
• Carry out site inductions
• Monitor day-to-day site safety
• Report issues to site management

SSSTS focuses on understanding health and safety responsibilities at a supervisory level and ensuring work is carried out safely in line with site procedures.

It is often the first formal safety course taken when moving into a supervisory role.

What Is the SMSTS Course?

The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is designed for those with overall responsibility for managing construction work.

This course is suitable if you:

• Plan, organise and control construction activities
• Manage site teams and supervisors
• Implement health and safety management systems
• Ensure compliance with legislation and CDM Regulations
• Take responsibility for risk assessments and method statements
• Are accountable for site safety performance

The SMSTS course goes beyond supervision and focuses on management responsibility, accountability and leadership.

It is endorsed by Build UK as the standard course for construction managers and is widely required by contractors and clients.

SMSTS vs SSSTS: A Simple Comparison

This comparison highlights why selecting the correct course matters. The course should reflect your actual responsibilities, not just your job title.

Which Course Do You Need?

If you are unsure which course to take, ask yourself the following:

• Do you supervise tasks or manage the site as a whole?
• Are you responsible for implementing safety procedures or creating and managing them?
• Do you report to a site manager, or are you the person ultimately responsible for site safety?

You likely need SSSTS if:

• You are a working supervisor or team leader
• You oversee operatives day to day
• You are new to a supervisory role

You likely need SMSTS if:

• You manage site operations
• You are responsible for planning and organising work
• You are accountable for health and safety compliance
• Contractors or clients require SMSTS for your role

If you are progressing in your career, it is common to complete SSSTS first and then move on to SMSTS as responsibilities increase.

Can SSSTS Be Used Instead of SMSTS?

This is a common misconception.

While SSSTS is an excellent course for supervisors, it is not a substitute for SMSTS where a site management role is required. Many contractors and clients will specifically state that SMSTS is required for site managers, regardless of previous SSSTS completion.

Holding SSSTS does not automatically qualify someone to manage a site.

SMSTS vs SSSTS in the UK Construction Industry

Both courses are delivered under the Site Safety Plus scheme by CITB and are recognised throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The right choice depends on:

• Your current role
• Your level of responsibility
• Client and contractor requirements
• Career progression plans

Choosing the correct course helps ensure compliance and supports professional development within the construction industry.

Still Unsure Which Course Is Right for You?

If you are unsure whether SSSTS or SMSTS is the correct option, it is always better to confirm before booking. Taking the wrong course can delay progression or result in needing to rebook later.

You can explore full course details below:

• SMSTS Course
• SMSTS Refresher Course
• SSSTS Course

Or speak to the team at Essential Site Skills for guidance based on your role and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between SMSTS and SSSTS?

The main difference between SMSTS and SSSTS is the level of responsibility. SSSTS is designed for site supervisors, while SMSTS is intended for site managers with overall responsibility for planning, organising and controlling construction work.

Is SMSTS higher than SSSTS?

Yes. SMSTS is a higher level course than SSSTS and is aimed at those with management and accountability for site safety, rather than day to day supervision.

Do I need SSSTS before SMSTS?

No. There is no requirement to complete SSSTS before taking SMSTS. However, SSSTS can be a useful starting point for those new to supervisory roles before progressing to site management.

Can SSSTS be used instead of SMSTS?

No. SSSTS cannot replace SMSTS where a site management role is required. Many contractors and clients specifically require SMSTS for site managers.

How long are SMSTS and SSSTS certificates valid?

Both SMSTS and SSSTS certificates are valid for five years. To remain valid, a refresher course must be completed before the expiry date.

Who decides whether SMSTS or SSSTS is required?

The correct course is usually determined by your role responsibilities, employer requirements and client or contractor standards, rather than job title alone. Both courses are delivered under the Site Safety Plus scheme by CITB.