If you are planning to work in the security industry in the UK, you will need to obtain a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence. One of the requirements to obtain this licence is to complete a first aid course. The type of first aid course you need to take will depend on the type of SIA licence you are applying for.
For those applying for a door supervisor or security guard licence, you will need to have a first aid qualification before you can take the required training. The SIA has introduced new, updated qualifications for all sectors except close protection and vehicle immobilisation. The first aid courses that meet the SIA licensing requirements include Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW), First Aid at Work (FAW), First Person on Scene (FPOS), and First Response Emergency Care (FREC).
It is important to choose a reputable training provider that offers a course that meets the SIA requirements. By taking the appropriate first aid course, you will not only meet the SIA licensing requirements but also gain valuable skills and knowledge that could potentially help you save a life in an emergency situation.
What First Aid Course You Need for SIA Licence
If you want to apply for an SIA licence, you need to train for a licence-linked qualification. This training includes first aid training. The SIA requires that all security operatives have a basic understanding of first aid. In this section, we will go over the different first aid courses that are available to you.
Emergency First Aid at Work Qualification
The Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification is a one-day course that teaches you the basic skills needed to deal with emergencies in the workplace. This course covers topics such as dealing with an unconscious casualty, CPR, choking, bleeding, and shock. This qualification is suitable for low-risk workplaces with fewer than 50 employees.
First Aid at Work Qualification
The First Aid at Work (FAW) qualification is a three-day course that provides a more comprehensive understanding of first aid. This course covers everything included in the EFAW course plus additional topics such as burns, fractures, and head injuries. This qualification is suitable for high-risk workplaces with more than 50 employees.
Equivalent Qualifications
If you already have a first aid qualification that is equivalent to the EFAW or FAW qualification, you may not need to take the SIA first aid course. The SIA accepts a range of qualifications that are equivalent to the EFAW or FAW qualification. These qualifications include the First Person on Scene (FPOS) and the First Response Emergency Care (FREC) qualifications.
It is important to note that not all first aid qualifications are accepted by the SIA. Before you take a first aid course, you should check with the SIA to make sure that the qualification is accepted.
In conclusion, knowing what first aid course you need for your SIA licence is essential. Taking a first aid course can help you respond to emergencies and save lives. By understanding the different courses available to you, you can make an informed decision about which course is right for you.
Emergency First Aid at Work Qualification
If you are looking to obtain an SIA licence, you will need to have an approved first aid qualification. The qualification must be an Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification or equivalent. This requirement is applicable for close protection officers, security officers, and door supervisors.
The EFAW course is designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge required to provide first aid in an emergency situation. This one-day course covers a range of topics, including how to deal with an unconscious casualty, how to perform CPR, and how to treat burns and scalds. The course also covers how to deal with minor injuries such as cuts, bruises, and sprains.
It is important to note that the EFAW qualification must be valid for at least 12 months. You will need to ensure that your qualification is up to date before applying for your SIA licence. If your qualification has expired, you will need to retake the course to obtain a new qualification.
There are a number of training providers who offer the EFAW course. The Red Cross Training, for example, offers a one-day EFAW course that is suitable for people aged 16 and above who might need to provide first aid to someone who is injured or becomes ill while at work. The course is ideal for organisations whose first aid needs assessment has identified a requirement for someone to hold a current EFAW qualification.
In summary, if you are looking to obtain an SIA licence, you will need to have an approved first aid qualification, such as the Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification. This one-day course covers a range of topics and is designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge required to provide first aid in an emergency situation. Ensure that your qualification is up to date before applying for your SIA licence.
First Aid at Work Qualification
To obtain an SIA licence, you need to have a valid first aid qualification. One of the qualifications that meet the requirement is the First Aid at Work Qualification. This qualification is suitable for individuals who work in high-risk environments, such as construction sites, factories, and warehouses.
The First Aid at Work Qualification is a three-day course that covers a range of topics, including CPR, choking, bleeding, and shock. The course is designed to provide learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to deal with a range of first aid emergencies in the workplace.
The qualification is valid for three years, after which you will need to undertake a refresher course to maintain your qualification. It is important to note that the First Aid at Work Qualification is not the same as the Emergency First Aid at Work Qualification.
If you already hold an Emergency First Aid at Work Qualification, you may be able to use it as an equivalent qualification to meet the SIA’s first aid training requirement. However, the Emergency First Aid at Work Qualification must be valid for at least 12 months from the date of your SIA licence application.
In summary, if you are looking to obtain an SIA licence, you must have a valid first aid qualification. The First Aid at Work Qualification is one of the qualifications that meet the requirement. If you already hold an equivalent qualification, such as the Emergency First Aid at Work Qualification, you may be able to use it to meet the requirement. It is important to ensure that your qualification is valid for at least 12 months from the date of your SIA licence application.
Equivalent Qualifications
If you already have a first aid qualification, you may be wondering if it is equivalent to the Emergency First Aid at Work qualification required for an SIA licence. According to the SIA, the qualification must be equivalent to the Emergency First Aid at Work qualification.
To determine if your qualification is equivalent, you should check with your training provider or awarding body. Some common equivalent qualifications include:
- First Aid at Work Qualification
- Paediatric First Aid Qualification
- First Person on Scene (FPOS) Qualification
- Military Medic Qualification
- Offshore Medic Qualification
If you have an equivalent qualification, you will need to provide evidence of this to your SIA training provider. They will then assess whether your qualification meets the SIA requirements.
It is important to note that if your qualification is not deemed equivalent, you will need to obtain the Emergency First Aid at Work qualification before you can apply for an SIA licence.
Overall, it is recommended that you check with your training provider or awarding body to determine if your qualification is equivalent to the Emergency First Aid at Work qualification required for an SIA licence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the SIA first aid requirements?
To obtain an SIA licence, you must complete a first aid course that is approved by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). This course must cover the necessary skills and knowledge required to provide first aid in emergency situations.
How much does the SIA first aid course cost?
The cost of the SIA first aid course can vary depending on the training provider and location. However, you can expect to pay around £80-£100 for a one-day course.
Where can I find an SIA first aid course near me?
You can find an SIA first aid course near you by searching online or contacting a local training provider. The SIA website also has a list of approved training providers that offer first aid courses.
What is the length of the SIA first aid course?
The SIA first aid course is a one-day course that covers the necessary skills and knowledge required to provide first aid in emergency situations. The course is designed to be practical and hands-on, allowing you to practice and develop your first aid skills.
Do security guards need first aid training for SIA?
Yes, security guards are required to have first aid training to obtain an SIA licence. This is because security guards may be required to provide first aid in emergency situations as part of their job.
What qualifications are needed for first aid training?
There are no formal qualifications required to attend an SIA first aid course. However, it is recommended that you have a basic understanding of first aid before attending the course. This will help you to get the most out of the training and develop your first aid skills.
