How long does a first aid course take?

At Life Force First Aid, we understand the importance of time management, especially when balancing work, family, and personal commitments. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills for workplace safety, personal knowledge, or community involvement, we offer a range of first aid courses tailored to fit into your busy schedule. This article will provide an in-depth look at the duration and structure of some of our key courses: Emergency First Aid at Work, First Aid at Work, and Basic Life Support. Understanding the time commitment for each course will help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

Emergency First Aid at Work (5 Hours)

The Emergency First Aid at Work course is designed to equip participants with the essential skills and knowledge to handle emergency situations in the workplace. This course is ideal for individuals designated as first aiders in small or low-risk work environments, such as offices, shops, or other non-hazardous workplaces.

Course Duration and Structure

The Emergency First Aid at Work course is a concise, five-hour programme. The course is typically delivered in a single day, making it convenient for those with limited time. The training covers critical areas such as:

• Assessing an incident

• Managing an unresponsive casualty

• CPR and AED usage

• Handling minor injuries like cuts, burns, and fractures

• Dealing with shock

The five-hour duration ensures that participants receive a comprehensive overview of essential first aid skills without the need for extensive time away from work or personal commitments. This course meets the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requirements for first aiders in low-risk environments.

First Aid at Work (2 Days Plus Online Component)

The First Aid at Work course is a more extensive programme, suitable for individuals working in higher-risk environments or those who want a more in-depth understanding of first aid. This course covers a broader range of potential medical situations and offers more detailed training compared to the Emergency First Aid at Work course.

Course Duration and Structure

The First Aid at Work course traditionally spans two days of in-person training, with an additional online component that can be completed at your convenience. Here's a breakdown of the course structure:

1. Day 1 and Day 2: The first two days are conducted in a classroom setting, providing hands-on training and practical exercises. These sessions cover:

   • Advanced CPR and AED use

   • Managing major illnesses such as heart attacks, strokes, and asthma

   • Handling injuries involving bones, muscles, and joints

   • Recognising and treating severe allergic reactions, burns, and scalds

   • Addressing issues like eye injuries, choking, and poisoning

2. Online Component: The third part of the course is an online module, which can be completed at your own pace. This component typically includes more detailed information on specific medical conditions, regulations, and best practices. It allows participants to reinforce their learning and complete the course with a final assessment.

This blended approach ensures that participants receive both the hands-on experience necessary for practical first aid application and the flexibility to study theoretical aspects at their own pace. The First Aid at Work course is ideal for medium to high-risk workplaces, including construction sites, factories, and large corporate offices.

Basic Life Support (2.5 Hours)

The Basic Life Support (BLS) course is a short, focused training session designed to teach participants essential life-saving techniques. This course is particularly useful for healthcare professionals, carers, and anyone interested in learning basic first aid skills.

Course Duration and Structure

The Basic Life Support course lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it an ideal option for those who need quick, yet comprehensive training. The course covers the following key areas:

• Recognising cardiac arrest

• Performing CPR, including chest compressions and rescue breaths

• Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

• Managing choking incidents

• Understanding the recovery position

This course provides participants with the confidence and skills to act swiftly in critical situations, such as sudden cardiac arrest or choking emergencies. The short duration makes it a convenient option for busy professionals or those looking to refresh their first aid knowledge quickly.

Choosing the Right Course for You

Selecting the appropriate first aid course depends on various factors, including your workplace environment, your role, and your personal interests. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

1. Emergency First Aid at Work (5 Hours):

   • Ideal for low-risk work environments

   • Suitable for individuals with limited time

   • Provides essential first aid skills

2. First Aid at Work (2 Days Plus Online Component):

   • Suitable for medium to high-risk work environments

   • Comprehensive coverage of first aid situations

   • Includes both practical and theoretical training

3. Basic Life Support (2.5 Hours):

   • Ideal for healthcare professionals and carers

   • Focuses on life-saving techniques

   • Short duration, perfect for quick learning

Why Choose Life Force First Aid?

At Life Force First Aid, we are committed to providing high-quality training that fits into your schedule. Our courses are taught by experienced instructors who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about teaching and ensuring that each participant leaves feeling confident in their abilities. We offer flexible training options, including on-site courses at your workplace or convenient public courses throughout London and the South East.

We understand that everyone has different learning needs and schedules, which is why we provide a range of course durations and formats. Whether you need a quick refresher or an in-depth training session, we have a course that fits your requirements.

Conclusion

First aid training is an invaluable skill set that can make a significant difference in emergency situations. Understanding the duration and content of each course allows you to choose the best option for your needs. At Life Force First Aid, we offer a range of courses, including Emergency First Aid at Work, First Aid at Work, and Basic Life Support, each designed to provide you with the essential skills to respond effectively in emergencies.

Don't wait until an emergency happens to realise the importance of first aid training. Sign up today for one of our courses and gain the confidence and skills needed to handle emergencies with assurance. Whether you're looking to meet workplace safety requirements or simply want to be prepared in everyday situations, Life Force First Aid is here to provide the training you need.

For more information or to book a course, please contact us. Our friendly team is ready to assist you in finding the right course and schedule that works best for you. Join Life Force First Aid today and become a certified first aider, prepared to make a difference when it matters most.