Training is not included in the list of ‘reasonable excuses’ to leave home during lockdown, and construction is not listed as one of the course areas which should continue face‐to‐face training.
The grace period for Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) and Site Supervisors’ Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) certificates that have expired since 1 October 2020 has now been extended until 30 April 2021. If your employees need to re-take their Temporary Works Coordinator or Supervisor training as they are due to expire, many providers are now offering these courses online. We recommend those new to temporary works wait until face-to-face training resumes.
The Department for Education has published guidance on Providing Apprenticeships during the Coronavirus Outbreak, which confirms that training and assessment for apprentices should take place remotely wherever possible. Face-to-face training can continue in colleges and training providers’ premises for vulnerable young apprentices and the children of key workers who need it. Construction apprentices can continue their training in the workplace where the apprentice cannot work from home and the workplace is COVID‐19 secure.