Being equipped with first aid knowledge is crucial, whether for personal safety at home or ensuring workplace safety. You might have noticed that there are various levels of first aid training, and here we’ll see what each entails and why these distinctions are important. By understanding these levels, you'll be able to make an informed decision about which course best suits your needs.
Why Are There Different Levels of First Aid Training?
First aid training is divided into different levels to cater to varying degrees of medical emergencies and environments. In the work environment they will be identified during a Risk Assessment and then the required level will be linked to the specific Risk to allow for an effective process to ensure the safety of all employees. Different industries are governed by different Acts and related legislation, which will guide the organisation to selecting the most appropriate level.
The levels range from basic skills suitable for minor incidents to advanced techniques necessary for more serious situations. Each level is designed to progressively build on the previous one, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of first aid practices.
Basic Requirements of All First Aid Courses
Regardless of the levels, all first aid courses share some common requirements:
- A willingness to learn and participate actively.
- Basic literacy skills to understand course materials.
- Physical capability to perform CPR and other physical activities.
- An understanding of the importance of first aid in everyday life.
Levels Renamed by the QCTO
For First Aid training providers that are accredited by the QCTO, the First Aid levels have been renamed as follows:
- First Aid Level 1 -> Basic Emergency First Aid Responder
- First Aid Level 2 -> Intermediate Emergency First Aid Responder
- First Aid Level 3 -> Advanced Emergency First Aid Responder
However, as most people have known the Levels as 1, 2 and 3 for decades, it will probably take many years for the new names to become the new norm.
First Aid Level 1 Course (Basic)
Average Cost
The average cost of a First Aid Level 1 (Basic) course ranges from R900 to R1,500 (as of 2024), depending on the provider and location.
There are a lot of unaccredited people providing training, so be sure that whoever you train with is accredited with bodies like the QCTO and Department of Labour.
Course Outline
This entry-level first aid course covers essential first aid skills including CPR, AED and choking relief for all ages, handling wounds, fractures, and burns, and dealing with common emergencies like shock, fainting, and poisoning. It also teaches how to assess a situation with primary and secondary surveys and the proper use of a first aid kit.
View the full list of course content here.
Who the Course Is For
First Aid Level 1 (Basic) is ideal for individuals looking to acquire basic first aid skills. This includes parents, caregivers, babysitters, and employees in low-risk work environments.
How Long Does the Course Take?
We offer a 1-day course option with self-study done beforehand. Without any self-study, the course is 2 days.
First Aid Level 2 Course (Intermediate)
Average Cost
The cost for a First Aid Level 2 (Intermediate) course usually ranges from R1,500 to R2,300.
Course Outline
Building on the basics, this intermediate course includes topics like chest, pelvic, and abdominal injuries, and covers managing infectious diseases, diabetes, and seizures. It also provides comprehensive training in CPR, AED, choking, and other emergencies, along with the skills needed to handle drowning and severe allergic reactions.
View the full list of course content here.
Who the Course Is For
First Aid Level 2 (Intermediate) is suited for individuals working in environments with a moderate risk of injury, such as schools, offices, and sports teams. It's also beneficial for those who want a deeper understanding of first aid beyond the basics.
How Long Does the Course Take?
This course generally spans 3 days, but can be done in 2 days with self-study beforehand.
First Aid Level 3 Course (Advanced)
Average Cost
The average cost for a First Aid Level 3 (Advanced) course ranges from R2,500 to R3,500.
Course Outline
This advanced course offers in-depth training on complex first aid scenarios including asthma management, emergency child birth, and detailed anatomical and physiological knowledge. It covers all aspects of CPR, AED, choking, and injury management, plus practical skills like taking blood pressure, checking blood glucose, using a Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) during resuscitation and administrating oxygen.
View the full list of course content here.
Who the Course Is For
First Aid Level 3 (Advanced) is designed for those in high-risk environments, such as construction sites, manufacturing plants, and remote or wild-life areas. It's also essential for individuals responsible for the safety and well-being of large groups of people.
How Long Does the Course Take?
The Level 3 (Advanced) course is more intensive, typically requiring 5 days to complete. Again, with self-study the course can be completed in 3 days.
Choosing the right first aid course depends on your specific needs and environment. Whether you're looking for a basic first aid course for home safety or a comprehensive Level 3 training for a high-risk workplace, understanding the different levels ensures you're adequately prepared. Investing in first aid training is an investment in safety and well-being, providing invaluable skills that can make a significant difference in emergencies.
Enquire about a First Aid course here.
