One of the most common questions we receive from businesses across Lancashire, Burnley, and Pendle is: "Should we book EFAW or FAW training?" The answer depends on your workplace size, risk level, and specific needs. Let's break it down clearly.
EFAW = 1-day course, ideal for low-risk or smaller workplaces. FAW = 3-day course, required for higher-risk or larger workplaces. Both are accredited and HSE-compliant.
Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW)
EFAW is a 1-day course (6 hours) covering essential emergency first aid skills. It's ideal for:
- Low-risk workplaces such as offices, shops, and warehouses
- Smaller businesses with fewer than 50 employees
- Organisations needing basic first aid coverage
- Refresher training for existing first aiders
What's Covered in EFAW:
- CPR and use of AED (defibrillator)
- Managing an unconscious casualty
- Choking procedures
- Bleeding and shock management
- Minor injuries and wound care
EFAW is the most popular choice for Lancashire offices, retail businesses, and hospitality venues. It provides solid emergency coverage in a single day with minimal disruption to your operations.
First Aid at Work (FAW)
FAW is a comprehensive 3-day course (18 hours) providing in-depth first aid knowledge. It's required for:
- Higher-risk workplaces such as construction, manufacturing, and agriculture
- Larger businesses with 50+ employees
- Workplaces with specific hazards identified in a risk assessment
- Organisations requiring designated, fully qualified first aiders
What's Covered in FAW (in addition to EFAW):
- Fractures and spinal injuries
- Burns and scalds
- Eye injuries
- Poisoning and chemical exposure
- Anaphylaxis and severe allergic reactions
- Heart attacks and strokes
- Asthma and diabetic emergencies
Side-by-Side Comparison
- Duration: EFAW = 1 day | FAW = 3 days
- Best for: EFAW = low-risk/small teams | FAW = high-risk/large teams
- Certificate validity: Both valid for 3 years
- Cost: EFAW is more affordable; FAW offers broader coverage
- Renewal: FAW can be renewed with a 2-day requalification course
Legal Requirements & HSE Guidance
HSE guidelines recommend at least one first aider per 50 employees in low-risk environments. However, you should always conduct a first aid needs assessment to determine your specific requirements — the HSE provides a clear framework for this.
Our Recommendation for Lancashire Businesses
For most offices and retail environments in Burnley, Pendle, Colne, and Nelson, EFAW provides excellent coverage. However, if you have any doubt, FAW offers more comprehensive protection and is always the safer choice.
Not sure which is right for you? Contact us — we'll assess your workplace and recommend the most appropriate course at no obligation.
Need On-Site First Aid Training for Your Workplace?
Contact PS Training Services for flexible, accredited EFAW and FAW courses delivered at your location across Lancashire and the North West.
Request a Free QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade from EFAW to FAW?
Yes. If you hold a current EFAW certificate, you can complete the full 3-day FAW course to upgrade your qualification. There is no specific "top-up" route — you complete the full FAW course.
How do I renew my FAW certificate?
If your FAW certificate is still valid, you can complete a 2-day FAW Requalification course. If it has expired, you must complete the full 3-day course again.
Is on-site training available for both EFAW and FAW?
Absolutely. PS Training Services delivers both EFAW and FAW on-site at your premises across Lancashire, saving your team time and travel costs.