SMTH Initial is a Network Rail Approved course which is designed for experienced Technicians who wish to progress their career in Signal Maintenance Testing.

Delegates should have the pre- knowledge of SEM1/SEM2 or equivalent and will have working knowledge of multimeters, insulation testers and have experience of working with existing SMTH testers.

On successful completion of the SMTH Initial course, delegates will be able to carry out the below under mentorship (level 2).

• Core Skills- wire count, continuity testing and insulation testing
• Aspect Testing
• Points Testing
• Cable Function Testing
• Diversion of a Circuit

In addition to this they will be able to document and apply all relevant procedures.

The course is delivered to Network Rail standard SMTH training material and delivered by an approved trainer.

The course is conducted between the hours of 08:45 and 15:30. Delegates will be provided with a mixture of theory and practical sessions to assist them in gaining the required level 2 competence.

On successful of this course mentorship is required trackside within the permitted Network Rail timescale guidelines. Once mentorship has been completed delegates are expected to return to a training centre for a further one to one assessment. On successful completion of this assessment a level 3 competent certificate is issued. This is valid for three years.

The delegate should have SEM1/2 or BS1/BS2 or equivalent (currently no works testing competences are deemed equivalent). Delegates should also have attended a SPWEE training course.

Delegates will be required to complete and pass a pre-test for SMTH Initial before continuing with the full course. This pre-test is completed prior to the SMTH Initial course is booked to avoid full Initial fees being charged if delegates are unsuccessful on the pre-Initial test.