28 Dec
28Dec

If you’re looking for a first aid course and don’t know the difference between Emergency First Aid at Work and First Aid at Work, then read on let us explain all!

Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) and First Aid at Work (FAW) are two types of first aid training designed to equip individuals with the skills to respond to medical emergencies in the workplace. While both courses are essential for maintaining a safe work environment, they differ in scope, duration, and the depth of knowledge and skills imparted.  

Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW)

EFAW courses are designed to provide individuals with the fundamental skills needed to respond to life-threatening emergencies. These courses typically cover the following topics:  

  • CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation): This involves chest compressions and rescue breaths to restore breathing and circulation in someone who has collapsed.  
  • AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Use: This covers the proper use of an AED to deliver an electric shock to the heart and potentially restart a normal heart rhythm.  
  • Choking: This includes techniques to dislodge food or other objects from a choking person’s airway.
  • Severe Bleeding: This covers techniques to control severe bleeding using direct pressure and tourniquets.  
  • Minor Injuries: This covers basic first aid for minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, and burns.

EFAW courses are typically shorter in duration, lasting around one day. They are suitable for workplaces with lower risk levels or smaller numbers of employees. The focus is on providing individuals with the essential skills to respond to immediate life-threatening emergencies.  

First Aid at Work (FAW)

FAW courses are more comprehensive and cover a wider range of first aid topics than EFAW courses. They are designed to equip individuals with the skills to respond to a broader range of injuries and illnesses, including:  

  • All EFAW topics
  • Minor Injuries: This includes more in-depth treatment of minor injuries such as sprains, strains, and fractures.
  • Illness: This includes recognizing and responding to common illnesses such as fainting, diabetes, and allergic reactions.
  • Burns: This includes treatment for a wider range of burns, including chemical burns.
  • Eye Injuries: This includes techniques to remove foreign objects from the eye and irrigate the eye.
  • Poisoning: This includes recognizing and responding to poisoning incidents.

FAW courses are typically longer in duration, lasting around three days. They are suitable for workplaces with higher risk levels or larger numbers of employees. The focus is on providing individuals with a broader range of first aid skills to respond to a wider variety of workplace injuries and illnesses.  

Key Differences

  • Scope: EFAW courses focus on life-threatening emergencies, while FAW courses cover a wider range of injuries and illnesses.  
  • Duration: EFAW courses are typically one day, while FAW courses are typically three days.  
  • Depth of Knowledge: FAW courses provide a deeper level of knowledge and skills than EFAW courses.  
  • Workplace Suitability: EFAW courses are suitable for low-risk workplaces, while FAW courses are suitable for higher-risk workplaces.  

Choosing the Right Course

The type of first aid course you need will depend on the specific needs of your workplace. Factors to consider include:

  • Risk Assessment: A thorough risk assessment of your workplace will help identify potential hazards and the types of injuries or illnesses that may occur.
  • Number of Employees: The number of employees in your workplace will determine the number of first aiders you need.
  • Nature of Work: The type of work you do will determine the specific risks involved.

Call us to discuss which course is right for your needs ; 01664371235

Additional Considerations

In addition to choosing the right type of first aid course, it is also important to consider the following:

  • Regular Refresher Training: First aiders should receive regular refresher training to maintain their skills and knowledge.
  • First Aid Kits: Your workplace should be equipped with well-stocked first aid kits in easily accessible locations.
  • Emergency Procedures: Your workplace should have clear emergency procedures in place, including how to call for help and how to evacuate the building in case of an emergency.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your workplace is a safe and healthy environment for all employees.


If you’d like to learn more call Confidence2Care Training! 

We run a variety of first aid and vocational skill courses including First Aid at Work, Emergency First Aid at Work, Outdoor First Aid and Train the Trainer.

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