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Why SEATS Training is Essential for Construction Professionals

SEATS stands for the Site Environmental Awareness Training Scheme. It’s a CITB-recognised course designed to improve environmental awareness and responsibility across construction teams.

With sustainability now a key focus in the industry, understanding how your site activities affect the environment isn’t just good practice, it’s an essential part of legal compliance and safe working.

From reducing pollution risks to managing waste correctly, environmental awareness helps protect your reputation, your workforce, and the communities around you.

In this blog, we’ll explain what the SEATS training course involves, who it’s for, and why it’s a smart step for your career or your team.

We’ll also outline the benefits of gaining a recognised qualification and how you can book your course with 3B Training.

Complete your CITB SEATS Environmental Awareness Training with 3B.

What Is SEATS Training?

SEATS is a one-day training course accredited by CITB and part of the Site Safety Plus suite. It provides construction professionals with a solid foundation in environmental responsibility and legal compliance on-site.

The aim is simple: to raise awareness of the environmental impact of construction activities and provide the tools to manage it more effectively. Whether you’re supervising teams or setting standards on-site, SEATS gives you the knowledge to act responsibly and lead by example.

Why the Construction Industry Needs Environmental Training

Environmental expectations on construction sites have never been higher. As sustainability regulations tighten, contractors are under more pressure to meet legal and ethical standards. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) continues to monitor and enforce these responsibilities.

Failing to control environmental risks can lead to costly project delays, fines, and long-term reputational damage. That’s where SEATS training comes in.

It ensures your workforce understands the importance of pollution prevention, resource management, and regulatory compliance, all of which contribute to safer, greener construction sites.

By completing SEATS, you’re not just ticking a box, you’re demonstrating leadership in environmental responsibility.

What Does the SEATS Course Cover?

SEATS Course Content Overview

The SEATS course runs over one day, offering around 7.5 hours of interactive learning. It focuses on improving environmental awareness and helping construction professionals understand how their work impacts the environment.

You’ll cover key areas such as pollution prevention, waste management, legal compliance, water usage, and how to deliver best practice on-site. The course explores why sustainability matters in construction and how small changes in working practices can make a big difference.

Training is delivered through a mix of case studies, group discussions, and trainer-led activities. At the end of the course, you’ll complete a multiple-choice assessment to test your knowledge.

Whether you’re looking to reduce your environmental impact or meet client expectations, SEATS training gives you the knowledge and confidence to take the lead on-site.

SEATS Course Format

You can complete the SEATS course online via Zoom or arrange in-house training for your team. Both options are led live by an experienced trainer and follow the same CITB-accredited structure.

Online learners join a virtual classroom where they can interact with the trainer and other delegates in real time. You’ll receive digital course materials and complete the final multiple-choice exam online.

In-house delivery is ideal for larger teams and can be customised to include company-specific examples. This format encourages discussion around real site challenges, making the learning more relevant and practical.

Who Should Take the SEATS Course?

Is SEATS Right for You?

The SEATS course is designed for site supervisors, foremen, managers, and anyone responsible for overseeing environmental aspects on construction sites.

It’s especially relevant if you’re working for a main contractor, where environmental awareness is often a key requirement.

Whether you’re new to the topic or looking to formalise your knowledge, SEATS supports your professional development in line with industry expectations around sustainability and site safety.

The course is also ideal for those working towards supervisory roles, offering a recognised qualification that strengthens your CV and supports career progression.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal prerequisites, but you must have a basic understanding of English and be able to take notes and complete an exam in written form.

For online learning, you’ll need access to a computer or laptop with a webcam, microphone, and internet connection. We recommend using Zoom regularly beforehand to ensure you’re confident with the platform.

Although previous experience on a construction site is useful, it isn’t essential. The course is structured to be accessible for anyone looking to better understand their role in environmental management.

SEATS Course Cost and CITB Grant

What Does the SEATS Course Cost?

The SEATS course typically costs around £190 + VAT per delegate for public bookings. If you’re looking to arrange in-house training for your team, pricing may vary depending on location, group size, and delivery format.

For in-house or group bookings, please contact us directly using our enquiry form and we can provide a bespoke quote that works with your budget.

Can I Claim CITB Funding?

Yes. The SEATS training course is CITB grant claimable for companies that are registered with CITB. This funding helps reduce training costs for eligible businesses looking to upskill their teams.

You can check the current grant values here or speak to our team, we’re happy to guide you through the claims process.

Benefits of Completing SEATS Training

Improve On-Site Environmental Awareness

The SEATS course equips you with practical knowledge to help reduce your site’s environmental impact. You’ll understand how to prevent pollution, manage waste, and follow environmental legislation effectively.

It also helps embed a culture of sustainability and compliance, which is increasingly important across construction projects of all sizes.

Increase Employability and Compliance

SEATS is CITB Site Safety Plus accredited and recognised by major industry bodies including BuildUK and HSE. It’s a valuable qualification when working on larger or regulated sites, and it can support your position during audits, pre-qualification processes or tenders.

If you’re aiming to grow into a supervisory or management role, SEATS is a smart step forward.

SEATS+

SEATS Environmental Awareness Course FAQs

How Long Is the SEATS Course?

SEATS is a one-day course, delivered over approximately 7.5 hours.

How Long Does the SEATS Certificate Last?

The certificate is valid for 5 years. After that, you’ll need to retake the course to renew your qualification.

Can I Take the SEATS Course Online?

Yes. We offer the SEATS course online via Zoom, with live instruction and an online final assessment. It’s ideal if you want to avoid travel and fit training around your schedule.

What Are the SEATS Course Entry Requirements?

You must be fluent in English, and able to provide photographic ID and your National Insurance number. If you’re taking the course online, you’ll also need access to a computer or laptop with a webcam, microphone, and internet connection.

What Happens If I Fail the Test?

If you don’t pass the multiple-choice assessment, we’ll discuss the next steps with you. You may be able to resit the test or attend a future course date to retake the training in full, depending on your performance and circumstances.

Start Your SEATS Training with 3B

Book Your CITB SEATS Course Today

Ready to get started? Book your SEATS course online today. We offer flexible online sessions and in-house training options to suit your needs.

If you’re unsure whether SEATS training is right for you or your team, get in touch with us. Our experienced team can guide you through the options, help with group bookings, and support you with grant funding.

At 3B Training, we’re proud to be a CITB-accredited provider, committed to helping construction professionals upskill with confidence.

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