Temporary works remain a key risk area on UK construction sites under BS 5975, with failures often linked to poor communication and lack of awareness rather than design errors. To improve baseline understanding, CITB offers a free Temporary Works General Awareness eCourse, designed for all site personnel who interact with temporary works but do not hold formal coordination roles.
In London’s high-density construction environment, this level of baseline awareness is increasingly expected as part of compliance-focused delivery. While temporary works are often seen as a specialist discipline, evidence shows that failures and compliance risk.
What Is the CITB Temporary Works Awareness Course?
The CITB Temporary Works General Awareness course is a free online programme introducing the principles, risks, legislation, and management of temporary works in the UK, aimed at improving baseline understanding across construction teams.
What the Course Covers
CITB Temporary Works Awareness Course – Core Topics
- Temporary works overview
- Planning and management
- Roles and responsibilities
- Relevant legislation
Online learning with assessment
Typically completed in 1–3 hours
Certificate provided
This course can be accessed directly via the CITB eCourses platform.
Who Should Take It
- Site operatives
- Supervisors
- Engineers and graduates
- Project teams
This is an awareness course, not a TWC/TWS qualification.
Why It Matters (BS 5975 Context)
Temporary works failures often result from:
- Poor communication
- Lack of role clarity
- Inadequate understanding
Awareness training supports baseline competence, but does not replace formal roles under Temporary Works UK BS 5975 Guidance.
Practical Use on Site
- Inductions and toolbox talks
- Training records
- Supporting competence frameworks
- Improving communication across teams
Evidence-Based Summary
Temporary works risk is not driven by a single factor but by a combination of design, coordination, and workforce understanding. While formal roles such as TWC and TWS are essential, evidence shows that lack of awareness across site teams contributes to errors and compliance issues. Free training such as the CITB eCourse provides a baseline knowledge layer that supports safer delivery.
In practical terms, organisations combining awareness training with formal competence systems are better positioned to manage temporary works risk.
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Expert Verification & Authorship: Mihai Chelmus
Founder, London Construction Magazine | Construction Testing & Investigation Specialist |
