The CITB Site Safety Plus scheme is a suite of essential construction health and safety courses that develop the competence, confidence, and career prospects of everyone working on UK construction sites — from new entrants to senior site managers.
At Goldcross Training, we deliver the full range of CITB Site Safety Plus (SSP) courses both online and in-person, helping you stay compliant, qualified, and confident in your role.
But what exactly are CITB, HSA, SSSTS, and SMSTS, and how do they fit together? Let’s break them down.
What Is CITB?
CITB stands for the Construction Industry Training Board, the national body responsible for improving skills and safety across the UK construction sector.
CITB works with training providers like Goldcross Training to create accredited courses that raise industry standards and support a safe, qualified workforce.
Through initiatives such as the CITB Site Safety Plus scheme, workers can gain recognised health and safety qualifications that enhance career progression and meet employer requirements.
CITB HSA – Health and Safety Awareness Course
The CITB Health and Safety Awareness (HSA) course is the starting point for anyone new to the construction industry.
This one-day course provides the fundamental knowledge needed to work safely on site, covering:
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Common construction hazards and controls
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Legal responsibilities and employee duties
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Safe working practices
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Accident prevention and reporting
After successfully completing the HSA course, delegates can apply for the CSCS Labourer (Green) Card, which many UK construction employers require before allowing site access.
CITB SSSTS – Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme
The CITB SSSTS course (Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme) is a two-day qualification for those moving into a supervisory role.
It covers key topics including:
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Health and safety law
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Supervisory responsibilities
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Risk assessments and method statements
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Behavioural safety and site communication
The SSSTS qualification is valid for five years. To stay certified, you’ll need to complete the 1-day SSSTS Refresher course before your certificate expires.
CITB SMSTS – Site Management Safety Training Scheme
The CITB SMSTS course (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) is the industry standard for site managers and project leaders.
This five-day qualification focuses on:
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Managing health, safety, and welfare on-site
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Legal responsibilities and CDM Regulations
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Site management systems and safe working practices
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Effective leadership and behavioural safety
The SMSTS qualification is also valid for five years and can be renewed through the 2-day SMSTS Refresher course.
CITB Site Safety Plus (SSP) – Complete Training Framework
The CITB Site Safety Plus (SSP) scheme brings all of these courses together, providing a clear progression route for construction professionals at every level.
From new labourers completing the HSA course to supervisors and managers advancing through SSSTS and SMSTS, the Site Safety Plus framework ensures consistent safety standards across the industry.
Benefits of the CITB Site Safety Plus Scheme:
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Builds essential health and safety knowledge for all site roles
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Enhances employability and career progression
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Supports compliance with HSE and CDM Regulations
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Promotes safer, more efficient construction sites
Whether you’re just starting out or managing multi-site operations, CITB Site Safety Plus training is your route to recognised certification and improved safety performance.
Why Choose Goldcross Training?
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CITB-accredited training provider with proven success
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Online and classroom delivery options for all CITB courses
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Expert tutors with real construction industry experience
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Flexible course schedules to suit working professionals
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CITB grant support for registered employers
At Goldcross Training, we’re committed to helping you achieve your CITB Site Safety Plus qualification quickly and effectively — building safer sites and stronger careers.
📞 Call 0203 633 5505 or contact us online to discuss your CITB training needs.