Guide · Updated 2026-10-02
Who Needs SMSTS?
SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) is widely required by principal contractors and clients for people who manage construction activities — site managers, project managers with site duties, and similar roles. It is usually a contractual or site-rule expectation rather than a single Act that names SMSTS for every site in the UK.
Quick answer
Assign SMSTS where your clients, principal-contractor agreements or internal role matrix say managers of construction work must hold it. Do not invent a universal legal duty from marketing copy. Keep the certificate expiry and refresher plan on the matrix.
Contract versus statute
Health and safety law expects competent management. SMSTS is one common way the industry evidences site management safety training. Whether a named person “needs” it on Tuesday morning is answered by the package they are running and the rules of that site — not by FieldClear.
- Site managers and construction managers on PC-controlled sites
- Others named in client prequalification as requiring SMSTS
- Not automatically every supervisor — that is often SSSTS territory
- Not a substitute for CSCS where the gate still demands a card
Role matrix tip
- List roles that manage construction work.
- Mark SMSTS required where contracts demand it.
- Mark SSSTS for first-line supervisors where that is the clause.
- Review assignments when someone acts up into management.
Honest limits
FieldClear does not decide who legally needs SMSTS. It tracks requirements you assign. CITB/Site Safety Plus rules can change — verify with the scheme. Not legal advice. FieldClear does not certify competence or accredit organisations.
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