Sports Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW + Sports)

Sports First Aid is a specialised form of emergency first aid tailored for athletic and physical activity environments. It prepares individuals, especially coaches, referees, fitness instructors, and volunteers, to respond to injuries and medical incidents during sporting events. While rooted in basic first aid principles (like airway management, CPR, and wound care), sports first aid also covers injuries more prevalent in athletic settings such as:

• Sprains, strains, fractures, and dislocations
• Head injuries and concussion management
• Heat-related illnesses like heatstroke and dehydration
• Drowning or secondary drowning incidents
• Managing shock, bleeding, and spinal injuries

This training is particularly relevant for environments where professional medical response might be delayed, and initial on-site aid is critical.

What can I expect from the Sports Emergency First Aid at Work course?

The EFAW + Sports is a 7-hour accredited course designed to equip participants with the knowledge and hands-on skills to provide immediate first aid in sports scenarios. You can expect to learn:

• The principles of first aid, including how to assess a casualty and act in an emergency
• CPR and AED use on adults, children, and infants
• Managing choking, bleeding, and shock
• First aid for common sports injuries such as sprains, fractures, dislocations, and head injuries
• How to handle environmental emergencies like heatstroke and hypothermia
• Safe and effective use of first aid equipment
• Legal and ethical considerations including duty of care, consent, and confidentiality

Practical demonstrations and interactive assessments ensure participants leave confident and prepared to act.

Are there any entry requirements for this Sports Emergency First Aid at Work course?

There are no formal prerequisites. However, the course is best suited for individuals:

• Aged 14 or older
• Involved in sports (professionally or recreationally)
• Comfortable with physical participation in practical scenarios

Ideal for:

• Sports coaches and personal trainers
• PE teachers and school sports staff
• Referees and match officials
• Event organizers and volunteers
• Parents supporting youth teams

This course is assessed through continuous practical assessment by the trainer on skills such as CPR, recovery position, wound management and casualty care. There is also a final multiple‑choice written exam (online/in‑paper) must be passed; candidate may retake if necessary until successful (no limit).

Accredited by Qualsafe Awards (RQF Level 3), a recognised awarding body, this certificate is valid for 3 years and is approved by UK Athletics (Category B), meeting their first aid requirement for coaches and leaders. The National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGBs) also recognise the course.

Certification confirms competency in emergency first aid for both workplace and sports environments.