How the SSSTS Course is Assessed

The assessment for the SSSTS course is comprehensive, combining continuous evaluation with a formal examination to ensure delegates have a practical understanding of the material:
 

► Continuous Trainer Review: Throughout the two-day course, delegates are continuously assessed by the trainer. This review focuses on three key elements:
    ► Group Exercise Performance: Delegates must demonstrate effective teamwork, collaborative working, making group decisions, listening to others' viewpoints, sharing their own perspectives and actively contributing to discussions to achieve a common goal.   
    ► Active Engagement: Delegates are assessed on their active engagement with the course and the group, including active listening, answering questions, giving suggestions and sharing experiences.   
    ► Toolbox Talk Delivery: Delegates are required to prepare and deliver a toolbox talk to other course participants.   

All three elements of the trainer review must be passed for the delegate to be permitted to sit the end-of-course examination.   

► Final Examination: The course concludes with a compulsory examination lasting 30 minutes.   
    ► Question Format: The exam consists of 25 questions, comprising 22 multiple-choice questions and three short written questions.   
    ► Safety Critical Questions: There are four "safety critical questions" at the beginning of each paper that must be answered correctly to pass the exam.   
    ► Passing Mark: The overall examination pass mark is 80% (24 out of 30 marks).   
    ► Resource Use: Delegates are permitted to use the Construction site supervision (GE706) publication for the last ten minutes of the examination period.   

► Re-sit Procedure:
    ► If a delegate passes the trainer's review and scores between 70% and 77% (21, 22, or 23 out of 30) on the examination (and passes the safety critical questions), or achieves the 80% pass mark but fails the safety critical questions, they may re-sit the examination.   
    ► The re-sit can be on the same day or by attending another course on the final day within a 90-day period, without needing to re-do the entire course.   
    ► If a delegate scores less than 67% (20 correct answers out of 30) in the final examination, they must attend the full SSSTS course again before being allowed to re-sit the exam.   

Upon successful completion of both the trainer review and the examination, delegates receive a CITB SSSTS digital PDF Certificate, which is valid for five years.   

Greatest Challenges for First-Time SSSTS Learners

The SSSTS course is designed for those new to supervisory roles, and while it's achievable, first-time learners might face specific challenges:

► Transition to Supervisory Responsibilities: The course prepares individuals for the challenges of managing teams and ensuring safety, bridging the gap between management and the workforce. For those entirely new to such responsibilities, understanding the scope of their new duties and how to implement them can be a significant learning curve.

► Understanding Legal Frameworks: While the course provides a structured and comprehensive understanding of health and safety concepts, including the Health and Safety at Work Act and other relevant regulations, the sheer volume and complexity of legal requirements can be challenging for those without prior exposure.   

► Application of Knowledge: The course emphasises practical application, such as carrying out risk assessments, understanding method statements, and delivering toolbox talks. Translating theoretical knowledge into effective on-site practice requires active engagement and critical thinking, which can be demanding for first-time learners.   

► Active Participation Requirement: The assessment heavily relies on active participation in group tasks, discussions, and the delivery of a toolbox talk. Individuals who are less comfortable with public speaking or group interaction might find this aspect challenging.   
 

How to Prepare for the 2-Day SSSTS Course

Effective preparation can significantly enhance a first-time learner's experience and chances of success on the SSSTS course:

► Familiarise Yourself with the Syllabus: Understand the course content and objectives, including topics like health and safety legislation, risk assessment, toolbox talks and effective communication skills. This will help you focus your efforts on relevant areas.   

► Review Basic Health and Safety Concepts: While the course provides comprehensive training, a basic understanding of general health and safety principles will provide a good foundation.

► Ensure English Language Proficiency: All course materials and the exam paper are in English. A good understanding of spoken and written English is essential for effective participation in discussions, written assignments, and the final assessment.

► Commit to Full Attendance and Engagement: Full attendance is mandatory. Beyond attendance, actively participate in class discussions, ask questions, and take notes to reinforce your understanding. Engagement helps the learning stick and is part of the assessment.

► Take Notes: You will receive a course booklet, but adding your own notes will help you focus and revise before the assessment.

► Practice Time Management: Pace yourself during the course and allocate sufficient time for studying and revision. Balancing study commitments with work and other responsibilities is key.

► Utilise Resources Wisely: Take advantage of study materials provided by your training provider, such as handbooks, practice questions and online resources. Exploring supplementary materials like industry publications and case studies can deepen your knowledge.

► Participate in Mock Exams/Practice Questions: Many training providers offer mock exams or practice assessments. Utilise these opportunities to familiarise yourself with the exam format, identify areas of weakness, and focus your revision efforts. Practice with SSSTS test questions, which typically cover risk assessments, method statements, toolbox talks, and emergency procedures.   

► Prepare for Toolbox Talk Delivery: Since delivering a toolbox talk is a mandatory assessment element, consider practicing this in advance.

By following these tips, first-time SSSTS delegates can approach the course well-prepared and confident in their ability to gain the necessary skills to effectively supervise site safety.