Yes, you can complete a CITB SMSTS course online through a live virtual classroom. You attend scheduled sessions with a tutor and complete the required assessment. Self-paced CPD courses offer a separate route for building site safety knowledge.
After a long shift, studying at home can sound appealing. Learnera’s SMSTS Course (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) offers self-paced CPD learning on topics such as risk assessment and construction safety. It supports knowledge development but does not provide the CITB SMSTS certificate. Your choice depends on whether you want further learning or need that specific certificate.
Key Points
- Online CITB SMSTS involves live teaching and scheduled attendance.
- Self-paced CPD learning supports knowledge development without replacing CITB certification.
- Check your employer’s certificate requirements before choosing a course.
Who Is The SMSTS Course For?
SMSTS stands for Site Management Safety Training Scheme. CITB designs the course for people who manage construction work or prepare to take on that responsibility.
Think about the decisions you face on site. Do you plan work or oversee how teams control risks? The course focuses on these management tasks. It covers site setup and health and safety responsibilities alongside:
- Risk assessment and hazard control.
- Construction Design and Management (CDM) Regulations.
- Occupational health and environmental issues.
How Does Online SMSTS Training Fit Around Work?
The full CITB course takes five training days. Some providers offer a five-day block. Others spread sessions across several weeks through day release.
Picture your usual working week before choosing a timetable. A day-release option can help you spread your time away from site. However, you still need to protect each session from work calls and other duties.
Online delivery removes the journey to a training centre. It does not remove the time you need for learning.
Make the Week Work for You
Think about the timetable, your site commitments and the time you can genuinely protect for learning.
Look at Your Working Week
Start with your normal site schedule and identify where five training days can realistically fit.
Choose the Right Pattern
Depending on the provider, training may be completed in one block or spread across several weeks.
Save the Journey
Online delivery can remove travelling to a training centre, which may make the day easier to organise.
Stay in Training Mode
Remote learning still needs your attention. Keep calls, site tasks and other duties away from the session where possible.
Less travel does not mean less training. Online delivery changes where you learn, not the amount of time you need to give the course.
What Do You Need Before Joining Online?
Prepare a computer or laptop with a working camera and microphone. You also need a reliable internet connection and a quiet space for discussions.
Before the first session:
- Check which video platform your provider uses.
- Test your camera and sound.
- Confirm identification and registration requirements.
- Ask how you access course materials.
- Check the provider’s assessment instructions.
A short equipment check helps you spot problems before teaching starts.
What Should You Check About Assessment?
Check how your provider assesses participation and learning before you book. Live online training includes discussions and group tasks alongside the final assessment.
Reading course materials alone does not show how you apply them. For example, a site scenario asks you to identify hazards and explain suitable controls. Use these tasks to test your understanding and ask questions.
Avoid assuming that every course with “SMSTS” in its name uses the same assessment rules.
Choose Your Next Step With Confidence
Start with the outcome you need. Then compare the timetable and assessment terms against your work commitments. Confirm the total fee and any certificate charges before paying.
Keep the booking details and course description for reference. Clear information helps you choose learning that fits your goals and avoids surprises when you finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take The SMSTS Exam From Home?
Yes, providers offer the assessment remotely as part of live online SMSTS training. Follow your provider’s instructions for the exam space and equipment. Ask about any checks you need to complete beforehand.
Do I Need To Complete SSSTS First?
CITB sets no formal entry requirements for SMSTS. However, it recommends previous health and safety knowledge. It recommends SSSTS for people without health and safety management experience.
How Long Does The CITB SMSTS Certificate Last?
The certificate lasts five years. CITB’s SMSTS course guidance explains the renewal routes. Complete the refresher before your certificate expires or retake the full course.
What Happens If I Fail The Assessment?
Ask your provider about resit eligibility and charges before booking. Do not assume every unsuccessful result includes a free retake. Check which CITB rules apply to your result.
When Do I Receive My Certificate?
Ask your provider to confirm its certificate delivery timeframe. If your employer needs evidence sooner, ask what confirmation the provider offers. Check whether your employer accepts that evidence while you await the certificate.


