Do you need to complete First Aid training to get a job?

First Aid Traning

So, you’re currently job hunting and you’ve noticed some job ads require you to have completed First Aid training. Completing a First Aid course can be a great thing to do, however it isn’t essential for all jobs.

Some people may choose to undertake First Aid training because they want to be prepared in times of need. Or some people may be involved in community clubs which require them to have undertaken training.

There is a strong possibility that you could be faced with a First Aid incident at some point in your life. This could be; asthma attacks, anaphylactic shock, insect bite, choking or even cardiac arrest. Therefore, even if it isn’t a requirement of your job, undertaking First Aid training is a sensible thing to do.

What does a First Aid course include? 

The Provide First Aid course gives you the skills and knowledge required to respond to an emergency situation. As well as apply appropriate first aid procedures, communicate details of the incident and evaluate the incident.

At HITsa, training is delivered by paramedics and nurses who have history of working in the medical and health industry. It includes both theory and practical demonstrations of possible First Aid scenarios, allowing students to relate it to real life events.

First Aid training is a one day course that runs for about 7 hours. Once completed, the qualification remains current for three years during which time a refresher course must be completed. 

What jobs require First Aid training?

First Aid certification pre-requisites are most common when applying for high risk jobs. However, requirements will differ depending on the work environment and industry. Employers are starting to crack down on employee safety and understand the importance of first aid. Therefore, it’s becoming a common pre-requisite in many high risk jobs. 

Here are some examples of non-medical careers where employers often call for their employees to be certified:

  • Childcare Workers
  • Construction Workers
  • Electricians
  • Firefighters
  • Flight Attendants
  • Jails & Prison Staff
  • Lifeguards
  • Social Workers
  • Flight Attendant
  • Nanny & Babysitter
  • Teachers & School Staff
  • Security Guard

What is a high risk workplace?

A high risk workplace is an environment where there may be exposure to hazards that could result in serious injury/illness. These injuries could include; amputation, serious head or eye injuries, electric shock or serious lacerations.  

High risk work environments require at least one First Aider for up to 25 workers and two for every 26-50 workers. This may vary depending on where the workplace is located. If it was a remote or isolated area with limited access to ambulance services, additional First Aiders would be required. 

What is a low risk workplace?

A low risk workplace is where there is no exposure to hazards that can result in serious injury. These workplaces could include; offices, banks, libraries and retail shops. 

In addition, low risk work places require one First Aider for every 10-50 workers and two for 50-51 workers.

The benefits of completing a First Aid course

Even though completing First Aid training is not always a requirement, it is an important thing to do. A First Aid course teaches you how to administer lifesaving First Aid when you’re faced with emergency situations. This could be within your workplace, at home or even down the street.

In addition, being certified in First Aid when applying for jobs will be beneficial and look good on your resume. Especially if you’re applying for high-risk roles. 

First Aid training isn’t a requirement for all jobs, but…

Yes, First Aid training is important, however it isn’t a requirement for all job roles. If you’re applying to work in a high risk environment, first aid training will often be a pre-requisite. Whereas low risk workplaces such as offices and retail shops won’t require it. In addition, each work place must have a minimum of one First Aider depending on how many staff there are. 

Jobs such as; lifeguards, nannies, childcare workers and school teachers will most commonly require you to have completed First Aid training. As well as a range of other similar roles. Having your certification in First Aid will always benefit you when looking for work. Even if you’re applying for jobs that don’t require it. 

Lastly, if you’re wanting to obtain your First Aid certification and undertake First Aid training you can enrol or enquire online today!