What’s the Difference Between EFAW and FAW Courses?
The Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course is a 1 day course that teaches essential, life-saving first aid skills for low-risk workplaces. The First Aid at Work (FAW) course is a 3 day course that covers everything in EFAW plus many more injuries and illnesses, making it suitable for larger or higher risk workplaces.
Both are recognised workplace first aid courses in the UK and meet HSE (Health & Safety Executive) requirements. The right choice depends on your workplace risk level, size, and staff needs.
Understanding workplace first aid in the UK
UK law1 (Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981) requires all employers to provide adequate and appropriate first aid. This applies even if you have five employees or fewer.
There’s no one-size-fits-all rule. Employers should carry out a first aid needs assessment to decide:
- How many first aiders are needed
- Which first aid course is appropriate
- Whether the workplace is low risk or high risk
Once you know you need a trained first aider, you’ll usually choose between an emergency first aid at work course or a first aid at work course.
Let’s break down the difference.
What is an Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course?
An EFAW course qualifies someone to give immediate emergency first aid if a person becomes ill or injured at work.
Key facts about EFAW
- Duration: 1 day (6 hours)
- Qualification level: Level 3
- Best for: Small, low-risk workplaces
- Certificate validity: 3 years
Typical workplaces suited to EFAW
- Small offices
- Retail shops
- Call centres
- Meeting or conference venues
These are places where staff mainly use desks, computers, and basic equipment.
What you’ll learn on our Emergency First Aid at Work course?
Our emergency first aid at work course focuses on life saving skills, including:
- The role and responsibilities of a first aider
- CPR and using an AED
- Choking (adult)
- Severe bleeding
- Shock Seizures
- Treating an unresponsive casualty
Ideal if you need fast, cost effective first aid cover for a low risk workplace.
What is a First Aid at Work (FAW) course?
A FAW course covers everything in EFAW, plus a wider range of injuries and medical conditions. This makes it the most comprehensive workplace first aid qualification.
Key facts about FAW
- Duration: 3 days
- Qualification level: Level 3
- Best for: Medium to large or higher-risk workplaces
- Certificate validity: 3 years
High risk workplaces often need FAW
According to HSE guidance, FAW is usually needed in places such as:
- Warehouses
- Construction sites
- Manufacturing and engineering
- Food production
- Any workplace with machinery, tools, or hazardous substances
What you’ll learn on our First Aid at Work course
Our first aid at work course includes everything from EFAW, plus:
- Burns and scalds
- Fractures, sprains, and strains
- Head, spinal, and eye injuries
- Chest pain and heart attacks
- Stroke
- Asthma and allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis)
- Diabetes and low blood sugar
Best choice if your workplace has higher risks or more employees.
EFAW vs FAW: quick comparison
| Feature | EFAW | FAW |
| Course length | 1 day | 3 days |
| Risk level | Low risk | Medium to high risk |
| Qualification | Level 3 | Level 3 |
| Skills covered | Emergency life-saving | Emergency + extended injuries |
| Certificate validity | 3 years | 3 years |
Which first aid course should you choose?
The answer depends on your/your business's needs:
- How many people work here?
- Is the workplace low or high risk?
- Do staff have medical conditions?
If you’re unsure, starting with a first aid needs assessment is the safest option. We can also guide you to the right first aid course for your business.
Book your Emergency First Aid at Work or First Aid at Work course with us and make sure your workplace is compliant, safe, and confident.
How long do EFAW and FAW certificates last?
Both EFAW and FAW certificates last 3 years.
After that:
- EFAW: retake the full course
- FAW: take a 2 day FAW requalification course
The HSE also recommends annual refresher training to keep skills fresh and confidence high.
FAQs
- What is the main difference between EFAW and FAW?
EFAW is a 1 day emergency focused course, while FAW is a 3 day course covering a wider range of injuries and illnesses.
- Is EFAW enough for my business?
EFAW is usually enough for small, low-risk workplaces. Larger or higher-risk workplaces normally need FAW.
- Are both courses HSE recognised?
Yes. Both emergency first aid at work courses and first aid at work courses meet UK HSE guidance.
- How often do first aiders need retraining?
Every 3 years, with refresher training recommended yearly.
- Can you help me choose the right course?
Absolutely. We’ll help you select the right first aid course based on your workplace and staff needs.
Refrences
1. HSE: GOV.UK