The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is a comprehensive five-day course in the UK, designed for those in managerial and supervisory roles within the construction industry. It equips delegates with the essential knowledge and skills needed for effective site management, focusing on understanding legal, moral, and social responsibilities in terms of health, safety, and welfare on construction sites.
What does an SMSTS allow you to do?
Upon successful completion of the SMSTS course, delegates can competently manage construction site safety, ensuring that all work complies with the relevant legislative guidelines. This entails risk assessment, hazard identification, and implementation of control measures, alongside continuous monitoring and review of safety procedures.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensuring workplace health and safety compliance
- Conducting regular site inspections and audits
- Implementing safety policies and procedures
- Providing safety training and information to staff
“Safety brings first aid to the uninjured.” – F.S. Hughes
Is SMSTS equivalent to an NVQ?
The SMSTS is not directly equivalent to a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in construction management. An NVQ is a work-based qualification representing competence in a particular area, whereas the SMSTS is a training course focusing primarily on safety management.
Comparing SMSTS with NVQ
| Factors | SMSTS | NVQ |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 Days | Varies, typically months |
| Focus | Safety Management | Competence in a specific area |
| Certification | Valid for 5 years | Does not expire |
While SMSTS provides critical knowledge for site managers to oversee safety aspects, achieving an NVQ in construction management or a related field is more comprehensive and demonstrates a broader competency in the industry.
Further Advancements
Those wishing to enhance their qualifications and skills further may opt to undertake additional training or aim for higher NVQ levels in relevant fields, ensuring they are not only proficient in safety management but also in all aspects of construction site management.
