Challenges of taking SSSTS for the first time

Challenges of taking SSSTS for the first time

 

The Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) is essential for anyone involved in supervising construction work. While it's a valuable qualification, it can also be a daunting challenge for first-time learners.

 

SSSTS - A Steep Learning Curve

The Site Supervisors' Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) is an essential qualification for those looking to step into supervisory roles within the construction industry. Offered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the SSSTS course equips supervisors with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure health and safety compliance on construction sites. However, for individuals undertaking this course for the first time, several challenges can arise. Understanding these challenges can help participants better prepare and succeed in the course.

 

1. Depth and Breadth of Content

The SSSTS course covers a wide range of topics, including the Health and Safety at Work Act, specific regulations related to construction activities, understanding risk assessments, effective site supervision, and behavioural safety. The depth and breadth of this content can be overwhelming, especially for those who are new to supervisory roles or lack comprehensive health and safety knowledge.


2. Understanding Legal Requirements

A significant component of the SSSTS course is understanding the various health and safety regulations and how they apply to different scenarios on a construction site. For first-time participants, grasping the intricacies of legal requirements and how to implement them can be challenging, especially if they have not had previous exposure to these regulations.


3. Practical Application of Knowledge

The course emphasises not just theoretical knowledge but also its practical application. Participants are expected to apply what they learn to real-world situations, which can be daunting for those who have limited hands-on experience in supervisory roles. Translating theory into practice requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills that may need to be developed.


4. Assessment Pressure

The SSSTS course includes assessments such as a multiple-choice test and ongoing evaluations during the course. The pressure to perform well in these assessments can be stressful for participants, particularly those who are not accustomed to formal testing environments or have been out of an academic setting for some time.


5. Time Management

The SSSTS course is typically delivered over two days. Balancing the intensive study sessions with existing work responsibilities can be a significant challenge. Effective time management is crucial to ensure that participants can focus on the course content without neglecting their professional duties.


6. Diverse Learning Environment

Course participants often come from various backgrounds, with different levels of experience and prior knowledge of health and safety practices. This diversity can lead to varying learning speeds and styles, which might make it challenging for some individuals to keep up with the pace of the course.


7. Retention of Information

Given the condensed nature of the SSSTS course, retaining the large amount of information presented over a short period can be difficult. First-time participants may find it challenging to absorb and remember key concepts, regulations and best practices required to pass the assessments and apply the knowledge effectively on-site.


8. Adapting to a Supervisory Role

For many first-time participants, the SSSTS course represents a step up from operational roles to a supervisory position. Adapting to this new role requires not only new knowledge but also a shift in mindset and skills, such as leadership, communication and decision-making.


 

 

 

How RISK help you overcome the difficulties and prepare for the SSSTS course

RISK is one of the oldest and a recognised leading provider of the CITB SSSTS courses, we helped develop the remote delivery through the lockdowns and have created award winning support materials.

We offer both physical classroom SSSTS and SSSTS Refresher courses across the UK, as well as remote tutor led virtual classroom SSSTS and SSSTS Refresher courses.

With all remote SSSTS courses and our two premium locations for SSSTS classroom-based courses in London and Nottingham, delegates get access to the ‘Personal Learning Zone’. This is an award-winning student portal which provides access to all the learning materials, structured notes, and a revision framework.

 

This means you can:

  • Familiarise yourself with basic health and safety principles and relevant legislation before starting the course.
  • Reviewing the course syllabus in advance can help identify areas that may require extra focus.
  • Get full use of the resources provided by RISK for the course, including handouts, online materials and recommended reading.

By breaking down the course into manageable sections, seeking support from RISK prior to the course start and utilising available resources, it's possible to successfully complete the SSSTS and become a competent site supervisor.

 

 

 


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