SMSTS vs SSSTS: What Is the Difference?

Common mistakes when choosing between SMSTS and SSSTS

The most common mistake is booking the course that matches your job title rather than the course your principal contractor asks for. Some contractors want SMSTS for anyone who runs a site day to day, even if your title is supervisor. Always check the site rules or the tender documents first.

Other mistakes we see often:

• Booking SSSTS to save time when you are about to step up to site manager. You will need SMSTS within a year or two, so you pay twice.
• Assuming the certificate lasts forever. Both expire after five years, and a lapsed certificate means sitting the full course again.
• Expecting the course alone to get you a card. A Gold or Black CSCS card also needs the right NVQ or qualification.

How to decide in five steps

1. Write down what you do now: do you plan the work, or do you oversee a team doing work someone else planned?
2. Ask your employer or principal contractor which certificate they expect for your role.
3. Check where you want to be in two years. If that is site manager, go straight to SMSTS.
4. Check you can attend every session. Both courses need full attendance to pass.
5. Book, then put your expiry date in your calendar the day you pass.

If you are still unsure, send us your role and the sites you work on using the form above, and we will tell you which course fits.