International Award in First Aid at Work and Use of an AED
Course Overview
The International Award in First Aid at Work and Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a comprehensive, competency-based training program designed to equip learners with the essential knowledge, skills, and confidence to respond effectively to workplace medical emergencies. The course focuses on immediate life-saving interventions, injury management, and the safe and effective use of an AED in line with internationally recognized first aid principles and best practices.
This qualification is suitable for individuals designated as workplace first aiders, supervisors, safety officers, and employees who may be required to provide emergency assistance in occupational settings.
Course Objectives
By the end of this qualification, learners will be able to:
- Recognize and assess emergency situations in the workplace
- Provide prompt and effective first aid treatment to injured or ill individuals
- Safely operate an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) during cardiac emergencies
- Maintain the safety of themselves, casualties, and bystanders until professional medical help arrives
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, learners will be able to:
1. Principles of First Aid at Work
- Understand the role and responsibilities of a first aider
- Assess emergency situations using a structured approach (DRABC or similar)
- Ensure scene safety and infection prevention measures
- Communicate effectively with emergency services
2. Managing Unconscious Casualties
- Place a casualty in the recovery position safely
- Identify and manage unconscious breathing and non-breathing casualties
- Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to current guidelines
3. Cardiac Arrest and AED Use
- Recognize the signs of cardiac arrest
- Operate an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) safely and effectively
- Apply AED pads correctly and follow voice prompts
- Integrate AED use with CPR in a coordinated response
4. Managing Common Workplace Injuries
- Control bleeding and manage shock
- Treat burns and scalds
- Provide care for fractures, sprains, and strains
- Respond to choking incidents in adults
5. Medical Emergencies
- Recognize and respond to conditions such as asthma, seizures, and diabetic emergencies
- Provide appropriate first aid until emergency services take over
6. Incident Reporting and Post-Emergency Procedures
- Complete basic incident documentation
- Understand post-incident support and review procedures
- Maintain first aid equipment and workplace readiness
Course Duration
1 Day (6–8 Hours)
(Trainer-led, including practical demonstrations and assessments)
Assessment Methods
Learners will be assessed through:
- Practical demonstration of CPR and AED use
- Simulated emergency response scenarios
- Trainer observation and competency checklists
- Short written or oral knowledge assessments (where applicable)
Certification
Upon successful completion, learners will receive the International Award in First Aid at Work and Use of an AED, confirming their competence in workplace first aid response and defibrillation procedures.
Target Audience
This course is ideal for:
- Workplace designated first aiders
- Health and safety officers
- Supervisors and managers
- Security personnel
- Hospitality, construction, education, and office staff
Training Methodology
The course is delivered through:
- Instructor-led practical demonstrations
- Hands-on CPR and AED practice
- Group discussions and scenario-based learning
- Real-life emergency simulations to build confidence and competence
