Would you know exactly how to react if a colleague collapsed or suffered a severe injury right in front of you? Standing by helplessly during a medical emergency is a haunting experience that no professional should ever have to endure. We understand that the responsibility of being a designated first aider feels heavy, especially when lives are potentially on the line.
Level 3 First Aid at Work (Emergency and Advanced) is an OFQUAL-regulated qualification that provides the essential skills to manage workplace incidents, from performing CPR and using an AED to treating major trauma and sudden illness. The Emergency (EFAW) course typically lasts one day, while the Advanced (FAW) course is a comprehensive three-day program.
At BS Security, we bridge the gap between “knowing” and “acting,” providing the definitive training solution for those ready to step up when it matters most.
What is Level 3 First Aid at Work (Emergency and Advanced)?
These qualifications are the gold standard for workplace safety in the UK. Regulated by bodies like Ofqual and often awarded through TQUK, these courses ensure your business remains compliant with the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.
While the “Emergency” version (EFAW) covers life-threatening scenarios, the “Advanced” (FAW) version provides a deeper exploration of secondary surveys, bone/joint injuries, and chronic medical conditions.
Core Components & Curriculum
We break down the training into manageable modules that balance theory with high-intensity practical sessions.
| Feature | Emergency First Aid (EFAW) | Advanced First Aid (FAW) |
| Course Duration | 1 Day (6 Hours) | 3 Days (18 Hours) |
| Primary Goal | Life-saving intervention | Comprehensive incident management |
| Core Units | CPR, AED, Choking, Bleeding | All EFAW units + Fractures, Spinal, Illness |
| Accreditation | Level 3 Award | Level 3 Award |
| Assessment | Practical + Multiple Choice | Practical + Multiple Choice |
| Renewal | Every 3 Years | Every 3 Years |
Instructor’s Insight: “The biggest mistake people make is thinking they can learn First Aid from a book. Muscle memory is everything. In our sessions, we simulate high-pressure environments so that when a real emergency happens, your hands know what to do even if your mind is racing.”
Who is this for?
- Designated Workplace First Aiders: Individuals appointed to meet legal safety requirements in offices, warehouses, or construction sites.
- SIA Security Professionals: Modern security roles now frequently require a valid First Aid certificate as a prerequisite for license renewal.
- High-Risk Environment Workers: People working with heavy machinery or in remote locations where emergency services may be delayed.
- Proactive Citizens: Anyone who wants the peace of mind that comes with being able to protect their family and community.
The “Hidden” Obstacles
We often hear from students who are intimidated by the practical assessments, particularly CPR. You might worry about “doing it wrong” or failing in front of a group.
At BS Security, our instructors use micro-teaching methods to ensure no one is left behind. We provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment. If you find the technical terminology confusing, we simplify it. We don’t care if you aren’t a “science person”—we only care that you can save a life. Our pass rates are high because we focus on confidence-building, not just memorization.
Why Train With BS Security?
Choosing us means choosing a partner that values your time and your career progression.
- Ofqual Regulated: Our certifications are nationally recognized and stand up to HSE inspections.
- Industry-Leading Equipment: Practice on the latest feedback-enabled manikins and live AED trainers.
- Speed of Certification: We understand that you need your certificate to work. Our internal processing is streamlined to get your results to you fast.
- Expert Mentors: Our trainers come from emergency service and high-level security backgrounds.
FAQ About Level 3 First Aid!
1. How long does a Level 3 First Aid certificate last?
Both the Emergency and Advanced certificates are valid for three years. After this period, you must take a requalification course to maintain your status.
2. Can I use this for my SIA license renewal?
Yes. The Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate meets the mandatory requirement for Door Supervisor and Security Guard top-up training.
3. Is there a lot of math or writing involved?
No. The assessments are primarily practical demonstrations of your skills, supported by straightforward multiple-choice questions to confirm your understanding of the theory.
4. What is the difference between EFAW and FAW?
EFAW is a one-day course for low-risk environments. FAW is a three-day course required for higher-risk workplaces or larger teams, covering a wider range of medical conditions.
5. Do I need any prior experience?
None at all. Our Level 3 courses are designed to take you from a complete beginner to a competent first aider in just a few days.
Turn Your Concern Into Competence!
You have been thinking about this for a while, haven’t you? The “Opportunity Cost” of waiting is higher than you think. Every month without this certification is a month where you are less employable and, more importantly, less prepared for the unexpected.
Imagine where you want to be in three months. Picture yourself walking into your workplace with the quiet confidence of knowing you are the most prepared person in the room. You have the certificate, you have the skills, and you’ve likely secured a pay rise or a better role because of it.
The team at BS Security will handle the paperwork and the administrative hurdles for you. We make the process seamless so you can focus on the skills that matter. Your journey to becoming a qualified life-saver begins with a single choice.
Secure your spot in our next Level 3 First Aid course at BS Security today.
More information
Book a first aid course with the British Red Cross
First Aid Courses | St John Ambulance
Workplace First Aid | Online Accredited Training
What is Conflict Pro? | Conflict International
Conflict Management: Examples for the Workplace
CIPD Conflict Management Support & Resources | CIPD
Read the specifications for SIA licence-linked training – GOV.UK