Choosing the right first aid course for your workplace can feel confusing at first. Many employers know they need suitable first aid cover, but they are not always sure whether their team needs Emergency First Aid at Work, often shortened to EFAW, or the full First Aid at Work course, known as FAW.
The right choice depends on your workplace, the level of risk, the number of employees, the type of work being carried out and the findings of your first aid needs assessment.
At Cataldo Training Ltd, we deliver accredited first aid training in a practical, engaging and supportive way. Our aim is to help businesses feel confident that their staff have the right knowledge, skills and awareness to respond effectively if someone becomes ill or injured at work.
What is Emergency First Aid at Work?
Emergency First Aid at Work is usually a one-day first aid course designed for nominated first aiders in smaller or lower-risk working environments.
It gives learners the core skills needed to respond to common workplace first aid situations. This normally includes the role of the workplace first aider, CPR, use of an AED, choking, bleeding, shock, seizures and minor injuries.
For many lower-risk workplaces, such as offices, small retail premises or similar environments, EFAW may be suitable. However, the final decision should always be based on the workplace’s first aid needs assessment.
What is First Aid at Work?
First Aid at Work is a more detailed course, normally completed over three days. It includes the key areas covered in Emergency First Aid at Work, but goes further into a wider range of injuries, illnesses and workplace scenarios.
The FAW course may be more suitable for higher-risk workplaces, larger teams or environments where staff could be exposed to more serious hazards.
This can include workplaces where there is manual handling, machinery, tools, hazardous substances, remote working areas, lone working, higher footfall or a greater chance of serious injury.
EFAW vs FAW: What is the main difference?
The main difference is the depth of training.
Emergency First Aid at Work gives learners essential emergency response skills. First Aid at Work provides broader training for a wider range of injuries and medical conditions.
Which course does your business need?
Your business should choose the course that matches the level of risk in your workplace.
A small office with low-risk tasks may only need Emergency First Aid at Work, depending on the number of employees and the outcome of the first aid needs assessment.
A manufacturing site, workshop, construction environment, school, warehouse or workplace with higher-risk activities may need First Aid at Work because the potential injuries and health risks are greater.
It is not simply about choosing the shortest or cheapest option. It is about choosing training that gives your staff the right level of confidence and competence for the environment they work in.
We had a regular client who previously had office space. As the company expanded, they moved some of their manufacturing work to the original site. This increased risk mandated that the Level 3 First Aid at Work course was now the most appropriate training needed to reflect this change.
Why your first aid needs assessment matters
A first aid needs assessment helps employers decide what first aid provision is suitable for their workplace.
This includes looking at:
- Workplace hazards and risks
- Number of employees
- Shift patterns and working hours
- Remote or lone workers
- Previous accidents or incidents
- Members of the public, visitors or service users
- Distance from emergency medical help
- Whether staff work across different sites
This assessment should guide the level of first aid training required.
For some employers, an appointed person may be enough to take charge of first aid arrangements. For others, trained first aiders will be needed.
Is Emergency First Aid at Work enough for my workplace?
Emergency First Aid at Work may be enough if your workplace is low risk and your first aid needs assessment supports that decision.
However, if there is a greater chance of serious injury or sudden illness, or if your workplace has higher-risk activities, the full First Aid at Work course may be more appropriate.
If you are unsure, it is always better to ask for guidance before booking the wrong course.
How long does a first aid certificate last?
First aid certificates are usually valid for three years. Before the certificate expires, employers should make sure their first aiders complete the right requalification course so their cover remains up to date.
Although annual refresher training is not always mandatory, it is strongly recommended because first aid is a practical skill. Confidence can fade if it is not used regularly.
First Aid practices and Guidelines are regularly reviewed and amended as required. Refresher training therefore ensures that all attendees are fully aware of these changes. Practically, the Refresher training reaffirms confidence, as qualified personnel get the chance to remain current and ‘brush up’ their skills, ultimately maintaining and building confidence.
As a Training Provider, we routinely see the benefits of annual Refresher training with many of our clients. This often shines through the questions from candidates who wish to stay as up to date as possible to better protect their colleagues and staff.
Does first aid training include CPR and AED use?
Yes. Emergency First Aid at Work and First Aid at Work training both include CPR and the use of an AED.
This is important because quick action can make a real difference in a medical emergency. Training helps people understand what to do, how to respond and how to use an AED with more confidence.
Many people are nervous about getting involved in an emergency. Practical training helps reduce that hesitation.
Can first aid training be delivered at your workplace?
Yes. Cataldo Training can deliver first aid training at your premises, provided there is a suitable space for learning and practical activities.
Onsite training can be a practical option for businesses that want several members of staff trained at the same time. It also allows training to feel more relevant because staff are learning in the environment where they may need to use those skills.
Why choose Cataldo Training?
Cataldo Training delivers accredited first aid courses in a relaxed, inclusive and practical way.
The training is designed to be engaging, not intimidating. Learners are supported throughout the session, with a mix of theory, practical activities and real-life observations that help make the training memorable.
The aim is not just to tick a compliance box. It is to give people the confidence to act when it matters.
Our training style is fundamentally built on engaging delegates on all courses to ensure that they leave their course informed and confident. We don’t train candidates to simply pass a course; we impart real-life experiences to show that textbooks and actual emergencies can be somewhat different. Delegates are invited to share their own experiences for the benefit of all. Courses are all delivered in a relaxed and inclusive environment with an emphasis on enjoying the whole training experience. Our Reviews show that this approach is conducive to effective learning.
Quick guide: which course should I book?
Choose Emergency First Aid at Work if:
- Your workplace is lower risk
- You need a one-day course
- You need staff trained in essential emergency response
- Your first aid needs assessment confirms EFAW is suitable
Choose First Aid at Work if:
- Your workplace is higher risk
- You have a larger team
- Staff face a wider range of injury or illness risks
- You need more detailed first aid cover
Choose First Aid at Work Requalification if:
A member of staff already has a valid FAW certificate
Their certificate is due to expire
They need to refresh and renew their qualification
Need help choosing the right first aid course?
If you are unsure whether your business needs Emergency First Aid at Work, First Aid at Work or a requalification course, Cataldo Training can help.
We provide practical, accredited first aid training for businesses across Durham, Sunderland, Newcastle and the wider North East.
Contact Cataldo Training today to discuss the right first aid course for your workplace.