Can you get a CSCS card with SMSTS or SSSTS?

What does CSCS say about SMSTS and SSSTS?

CSCS states that both courses are not accepted as part of card applications. It explains that they are health and safety courses and not occupation or competence based.

CSCS also explains why they cannot be used instead of the CITB Health, safety and environment test.

CSCS does say holders can add either course to the My Skills section of the My CSCS app. That records the training. It does not count towards a card.

In short, think of the course as site safety training and the card as proof of your occupational qualification and test result.

Which CSCS cards are for managers and supervisors?

CSCS lists three card types in its supervisors and managers section. Check the CSCS site for the current requirements before you apply, as they can change.

CSCS shows the Supervisory card and the Manager card as valid for five years.

Because the card rules are set by CSCS and not by CITB, always check the CSCS card pages for the latest requirements before you apply.

• Manager card: for managers and people in technical occupations with a relevant Construction Management or Technical N/SVQ at Level 4 to 7, plus the CITB Managers and Professionals Health, Safety and Environment test
• Supervisory card: for supervisors and technical occupations with a construction related Supervisory or Technical N/SVQ at Level 3 or 4, plus the CITB Specialist Supervisory Health, Safety and Environment test
• Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager card: for people with on-the-job experience who are registered to complete their qualification

Where does the health, safety and environment test fit in?

The supervisor and manager cards both ask for a CITB health, safety and environment test, and each card has its own version. CSCS says SMSTS and SSSTS cannot replace this test.

So if you hold one of the courses and want a card, you still need the right qualification and the test. Check the exact steps on the CSCS site.

If you do not yet have a Level 3 or 4 qualification, your employer or training provider can tell you about the route and what evidence is needed.

Why do employers ask for SMSTS or SSSTS, and what if they ask for a card?

Some employers and clients want a supervisor or manager to hold a recognised site safety course as well as, or instead of, a card. That is a decision for each employer, not a CSCS rule.

The two things do different jobs. A CSCS card shows an occupational qualification and a passed health and safety test. SMSTS and SSSTS show training in managing or supervising site safety.

People often talk about an SMSTS or SSSTS card, but the cards CSCS issues are separate. If an employer asks for one, ask whether they mean the course certificate, a CSCS card, or both.

This avoids a booking mistake, such as paying for a course when what the employer wants is a card.

What should I do next?

Decide which role you are aiming for, then look at the matching card page on the CSCS site. Check which qualification and test it asks for. Your employer or training provider can help you choose the route.

Our free practice papers are for the SMSTS and SSSTS exams. They will not prepare you for the CITB health, safety and environment test.

CSCS publishes its own guidance and it can change, so treat the CSCS website as the final word.