EFAW vs FAW: Which First Aid Course Does Your London Workplace Need?

Choosing between Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) and First Aid at Work (FAW) is one of the most common questions we hear from London employers. Both are accredited, HSE-recognised qualifications, but they suit very different workplaces. Here is how to decide.

The short answer

EFAW is a 1-day course for lower-risk workplaces such as offices, shops, gyms, salons and hospitality. FAW is a 3-day course for higher-risk workplaces such as construction, manufacturing and warehousing, or for larger organisations that want more thoroughly trained first aiders.

What EFAW covers

The Emergency First Aid at Work course runs for one day (around six hours) and focuses on managing an emergency until help arrives. It covers:

• The role and responsibilities of a first aider
• Assessing an incident and the primary survey
• CPR and the use of an AED (defibrillator)
• Helping an unresponsive casualty and the recovery position
• Choking, bleeding and shock
• Minor injuries

It is the qualification most small London businesses need to meet their legal duties.

What FAW adds

The First Aid at Work course covers everything in EFAW and goes considerably further, over three days. It adds the management of a much wider range of injuries and illnesses, including:

• Fractures, spinal injuries and head injuries
• Chest and abdominal injuries
• Medical emergencies such as seizures, diabetes and asthma
• Burns, scalds and eye injuries

This depth is why FAW is the right choice for higher-risk environments or for designated first aiders who may face more serious situations.

How to decide: start with your risk assessment

Under the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981, every employer must carry out a first aid needs assessment. That assessment, not a fixed rule, determines what training your first aiders need. Consider:

• The nature of your work. Office-based and low-hazard? EFAW is usually enough. Machinery, working at height, or hazardous substances? Lean towards FAW.
• The size and spread of your workforce. Larger sites, shift patterns and multiple floors often justify FAW-trained first aiders.
• Your history of accidents and the proximity of emergency services.

Both certificates last three years

EFAW and FAW certificates are valid for three years. Before they expire, your first aiders should requalify. FAW has a dedicated 2-day requalification course, and we recommend booking renewals in good time so cover never lapses.

Still not sure?

If you are weighing it up for a London workplace, we are happy to advise based on your specific setting. Take a look at our Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course and First Aid at Work (FAW) course, or get in touch and we will point you to the right one.