What to Look for in an SMSTS Online Course Provider – and Why RISK Leads the Way
17 November 2025
Booking a CITB Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) course is an important decision. Whether you’re an individual looking to progress your career or a company investing in employee development, the provider you choose can make all the difference.
While all providers must deliver the CITB-approved content, the quality of training, support, and delivery experience varies hugely.
Below, we outline the key factors to look out for when choosing an SMSTS training provider — and explain why RISK, a CITB Approved Training Organisation (No. 3456), stands out as one of the leading names in SMSTS, SSSTS and refresher training.
1. Pre and Post Course Support
Many providers focus only on the classroom delivery, leaving delegates on their own before and after the course. A great provider supports you throughout the entire journey.
With RISK, support begins before you step into the classroom (or log in online). As soon as you book, you gain access to their award-winning Personal Learning Zone — an online portal that allows you to prepare in advance, review materials, and test your knowledge. For online delegates, a free “tech test” ensures smooth participation.
During the course, RISK offers expert tutor delivery, interactive study methods, and even out-of-hours 1-to-1 tutor support if you’re struggling. After completion, the support continues with ongoing guidance and help applying your new skills.
Why it matters: You don’t just want to pass — you want to feel confident applying your learning on-site. RISK ensures you’re supported every step of the way.
2. Proven High Pass Rates
One of the strongest indicators of a quality training provider is their exam pass rates. RISK consistently outperforms industry averages across CITB Site Safety Plus courses:
- SMSTS: 98.31%
- SMSTS Refresher: 97.47%
- SSSTS: 95.29%
- SSSTS Refresher: 95.89%
These rates reflect effective teaching methods and genuine knowledge transfer — not just coaching delegates to scrape through.
Why it matters: High pass rates backed by decades of delivery give you confidence that your investment in training will pay off.
3. Transparent Pricing with No Hidden Costs
Some providers advertise “too good to be true” course prices, only to add hidden fees for handbooks, exam re-sits, or certification. This can make your budget spiral.
RISK takes a different approach: all costs are included upfront. You’ll never be surprised by extra fees for course materials, exams or technical support. In fact, RISK even offers a free re-sit policy, showing their commitment to your success.
Why it matters: Transparent pricing protects you from nasty surprises — and ensures your training budget delivers real value.
4. Great Delegate Feedback
Reviews from past delegates reveal the true quality of a course. With RISK, feedback consistently praises their expert tutors, engaging delivery, supportive approach and modern training environments.
Delegates highlight that RISK’s tutors make complex safety concepts clear and practical, ensuring the knowledge can be applied directly on-site. Many also note the convenience and effectiveness of virtual training, with no compromise on quality.
Why it matters: Consistently strong feedback proves that RISK doesn’t just tick the boxes — they exceed expectations.
5. Flexible Course Options
The best provider recognises that one size does not fit all. Whether you’re a busy site manager or a company booking a group, flexibility is key.
RISK offers:
- In-company training (tailored to your site and policies)
- Block release or day-release formats (train intensively or spread the learning out)
- Physical classrooms (central London and beyond)
- Tutor-led virtual classrooms (with pre-course tech support)
This flexibility ensures minimal disruption for businesses and maximum choice for individuals.
Why it matters: You can choose the training style that best fits your schedule, learning style, and work commitments.
Why RISK is a Leading Provider of SMSTS Training
With over 25 years of experience delivering CITB-accredited Site Safety Plus training, RISK combines:
- Outstanding pre-, during- and post-course support
- Industry-leading pass rates
- Transparent, all-inclusive pricing
- Excellent delegate reviews
- Flexible delivery options for both companies and individuals
As a CITB Approved Training Organisation (No. 3456), RISK has a proven track record of raising safety standards across the construction industry.
If you’re looking to book an SMSTS, SSSTS or refresher course, choose a provider that doesn’t just help you pass the exam, but equips you with the confidence and competence to apply safety leadership on-site.
