If you’re wondering, “Can I complete a refresher course if my certificate is out of date?”, this guide from SAMS Ltd has the answer you need. We specialise in CITB-approved training delivered online, and it’s crucial to understand when you can and cannot take a refresher to maintain your certification and credibility.

Why it matters

Construction health and safety certification, such as SSSTS (Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme), is valid for five years from issue. Keeping your certificate up to date is not just a regulatory requirement—it ensures competence in supervisory roles and promotes safety on site.

Can I complete a refresher course if my certificate is out of date?

The short answer: No. If your SSSTS certificate has already expired, you are not eligible to complete a refresher course. Unfortunately, there is no grace period anymore. If your certificate has lapsed, you’ll need to retake the full two-day SSSTS course—which is more time-consuming and costly.

This is the direct answer to the question: Can I complete a refresher course if my certificate is out of date? When your certificate is expired, you must book the full course again.

What if your certificate is still valid?

If you are approaching the end of your certificate’s five-year validity but it’s still in date, then yes—you can complete the one-day SSSTS Refresher (SSSTS-R) with SAMS Ltd. The refresher is the efficient and cost-effective option to stay compliant.

Here’s a helpful breakdown:

Certificate Status Eligibility for Refresher Action Required
In date (within five years) Yes Take the 1-day SSSTS-R via Zoom
Expired (beyond five years) No Retake full 2-day SSSTS course

Why SAMS Ltd?

When asking yourself, “Can I complete a refresher course if my certificate is out of date?”, SAMS Ltd not only provides the right answer but also delivers the best solution—for those still eligible. Here’s why:

  • Convenient remote learning: Our SSSTS-R course is delivered online via Zoom—so you can refresh your qualification from anywhere.

  • Competitive pricing: The SSSTS-R course is just £120 + VAT, compared to the full course price of £200 + VAT.

  • Industry-approved: SAMS Ltd’s training is Build UK-approved, meeting all requirements for supervisory roles on Build UK sites.

  • Exceptional pass rates: Our remote training programs have consistently achieved outstanding results—most cohorts reach 100% pass rates, demonstrating our training’s effectiveness.

What happens if you miss the window?

If you delay refresher training and your certificate lapses, you’ll need to retake the full course—and you’ll miss out on the convenience and savings of the refresher option. SAMS Ltd strongly recommends booking your SSSTS-R at least one month before expiration to ensure you have time to resit the exam if needed, avoiding gaps in your qualification.

Next steps with SAMS Ltd

To avoid asking yourself again, “Can I complete a refresher course if my certificate is out of date?”, here’s what you should do right now:

  1. Check your certificate’s expiry date. If it’s still valid, don’t wait—book your refresher.

  2. Visit the SAMS Ltd SSSTS-R page to view upcoming dates and book. The one-day refresher costs £120 + VAT.

  3. Use our September offer: enter code Sept15 at checkout for a 15% discount (valid until September 30).

  4. Prepare for remote learning, attend the course online via Zoom, and refresh your certification with ease.


Summary: Can I complete a refresher course if my certificate is out of date?

  • If your certificate IS still in date, yes—you can take the one-day SSSTS-R refresher via SAMS Ltd.

  • If your certificate has expired, no—you must retake the full two-day course.

  • Always plan ahead to avoid downtime, extra cost, and non-compliance.

  • With SAMS Ltd, you benefit from industry-validated, remote learning that’s efficient, affordable, and trusted.

Need support deciding between refresher vs full course, or comparing SSSTS with SMSTS? Just ask—we’re here to help you stay certified and safe.

Can I complete a refresher course if my certificate is out of date?