The five-day site management safety course, effectively mandatory for site managers. It is issued by CITB.

Site managers, project managers and agents on most major contractors' sites. On the Universal Bedford project we list 2 roles that would typically require it, including site manager, health & safety advisor.

How do I get a SMSTS?

1. Book a five-day SMSTS course 2. Attend all sessions and pass the assessment

How much does a SMSTS cost?

Indicatively £550 to £850, depending on the provider and what is included. That is a market range rather than a quote — costs change and vary regionally, so confirm with CITB or an approved provider before booking.

How long does a SMSTS last?

5 years. A two-day SMSTS refresher before expiry.

Issued by CITB

SMSTS

Site Management Safety Training Scheme

Indicative cost: £550–£850
Valid for: 5 years
Roles needing it: 2
Issuer: CITB

Costs are indicative and change. Confirm with the issuing body before booking anything.

How to get one

Book a five-day SMSTS course
Attend all sessions and pass the assessment

CITB — official site

Worth knowing. Let it lapse and you must sit the full five days again rather than the two-day refresher. Diary the expiry.

Roles that need this

2 roles on the Universal Bedford project would typically require it.

Site manager

Specialist

Professional & commercial

£55,000–£85,000 per year

Runs a work area day to day — programme, quality and safety.

Steady need

Health & safety advisor

Specialist

Health, safety & environment

£38,000–£62,000 per year

Keeps thousands of people safe on a live construction site.

Steady need

SMSTS: common questions

What is a SMSTS?: The five-day site management safety course, effectively mandatory for site managers. It is issued by CITB.
Who needs a SMSTS?: Site managers, project managers and agents on most major contractors' sites. On the Universal Bedford project we list 2 roles that would typically require it, including site manager, health & safety advisor.
How do I get a SMSTS?: 1. Book a five-day SMSTS course 2. Attend all sessions and pass the assessment
How much does a SMSTS cost?: Indicatively £550 to £850, depending on the provider and what is included. That is a market range rather than a quote — costs change and vary regionally, so confirm with CITB or an approved provider before booking.
How long does a SMSTS last?: 5 years. A two-day SMSTS refresher before expiry.

We do not sell training, do not take commission from providers, and are not affiliated with CITB. This page is a plain-English summary — the issuing body is the authority.