Can You Run a Site Without SMSTS Training?
Health and safety are crucial in the construction industry, and this is particularly true for site managers. Anyone who’s in charge of a site must be suitably trained and qualified, which is exactly why so many site managers, and prospective site managers, undertake the Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS). But can you run a site without SMSTS training?
While it’s not technically a legal requirement for site managers to acquire the SMSTS certification, you are unlikely to be hired as a site manager without it.
Why is SMSTS Training So Crucial for Site Managers?
SMSTS is the foundational pillar for maintaining high health and safety standards on construction sites. The training covers all the key knowledge required to maintain those standards, ensuring that sites run as smoothly, and as safely, as possible. It’s not just a certification to help site managers get hired; SMSTS is designed to minimise the risk of accidents, and boost productivity, on sites.
The Risks of Being a Site Manager Without SMSTS Training
There are a number of risks inherent in being a site manager without the proper training:
- While it’s not a legal requirement for a site manager to hold the SMSTS certification, it is a legal requirement that they ensure workplace safety. Without SMSTS training, site managers are less likely to meet these standards.
- Without the risk management knowledge provided by SMSTS training, there is more chance of critical safety issues being overlooked by the site manager.
- Ultimately, construction sites lacking proper management are more likely to have accidents- typically the worst case scenario for a site manager.
Which Qualifications Are Required to Become a Site Manager?
Again, while it’s not strictly a legal requirement, you are unlikely to be hired as a site manager if you don’t also have a black CSCS card. This card will essentially act as proof that you have acquired the necessary site management training. More and more companies and contractors are making the black CSCS card, and SMSTS, a requirement when hiring site managers.
To apply for a black CSCS card, you’ll first need to undertake a relevant construction NVQ (National Vocational Qualification).
Are there Prerequisites for SMSTS Training?
There are no formal prerequisites for undertaking SMSTS. However, the course is designed for site managers and those in leadership roles, so experience in construction would be very beneficial.
Can You Do SMSTS Training Online?
You can take the training online, or in-person. The online version offers the same comprehensive curriculum as the in-person training, and comes with the additional benefit of flexibility. If your schedule is too busy to attend a physical classroom for five days (which is how long SMSTS takes), you should still be able to acquire the certification from home.
Conclusion: Can You Run a Site Without SMSTS Training?
Site managers are not legally required to hold the SMSTS certification, but they are legally required to ensure the utmost safety in the workplace. The risks of managing a construction site without SMSTS (namely a higher risk of accidents, and legal action) far outweigh the cost, and time, of acquiring the certification.
If you still have any questions regarding SMSTS training, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
Phone – 020 3488 4472
