When someone collapses at work, the first few minutes matter more than anything else. In a busy city like London, an ambulance can be delayed by traffic, building access or the sheer volume of calls. In that gap, the person standing next to the casualty is often the only help available. If that person is trained, the outcome can be very different.
An Emergency First Aid at Work course in London is the fastest and most cost-effective way to give your workplace that trained person. It takes just one day, it meets the requirements recognised by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and at BeTrained it costs £89 per person.
This guide explains everything you need to know before you book: what the course is, who needs it, what the law says, what you will learn, how the day runs, how much it costs, how long the certificate lasts, and how to choose a good training provider in London. If you are a business owner, office manager, HR professional, or an individual who wants to be prepared, this guide is for you.
Table of Contents
- What is an Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course?
- Why London workplaces need trained first aiders
- What does UK law say about workplace first aid?
- EFAW vs First Aid at Work (FAW): which one do you need?
- How many first aiders does your workplace need?
- Who should take an Emergency First Aid at Work course?
- What you will learn on the course
- How the one-day course runs
- Assessment: what to expect
- Course price in London: why £89 is good value
- Certificate validity and refresher training
- How to choose an EFAW provider in London
- Training at your workplace vs a public course
- How to prepare for your course day
- Common myths about workplace first aid
- Frequently asked questions
- Final thoughts and how to book
1. What is an Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course?
The Emergency First Aid at Work course, usually shortened to EFAW, is a regulated workplace first aid qualification in the United Kingdom. It trains people to deal with the most common life-threatening emergencies that can happen in any working environment, until professional medical help arrives.
The course is designed around one idea: in an emergency, a calm and competent person acting quickly saves lives. You do not need any medical background or prior knowledge. The course starts from the basics and builds your confidence through practical, hands-on training.
EFAW is typically delivered as a one-day course (usually six hours of learning time, in line with HSE guidance). At the end, successful candidates receive a certificate that shows they are competent to act as an emergency first aider in the workplace.
At BeTrained, our London EFAW course is delivered in a single day, costs £89, and is built around practical learning rather than long lectures. You will spend most of the day practising skills on manikins and with your fellow learners, not sitting through slides.
2. Why London workplaces need trained first aiders
London is one of the busiest working environments in the world. Millions of people commute into the city each day, and they work in offices, shops, restaurants, hotels, building sites, schools, warehouses, gyms, studios and everything in between. That brings some very particular first aid challenges.
Dense, high-rise workplaces. In a tower block in the City or Canary Wharf, even a short ambulance response can be slowed by security checks, lifts and long internal routes. A trained colleague on the same floor can start helping at once.
Heavy traffic and congestion. London’s roads are among the most congested in the UK. Even with fast emergency services, response times can vary. First aiders bridge that gap.
Diverse and high-risk industries. Construction, hospitality, logistics, retail and events all carry real injury risks: cuts, burns, falls, manual handling injuries and more. Even low-risk office environments see heart attacks, fainting, seizures, allergic reactions and choking.
Large numbers of people. More people in one place means a higher chance that, on any given day, someone will need help. This includes employees, visitors, contractors and customers.
Cardiac arrest is a real risk anywhere. According to figures widely cited by organisations such as the British Heart Foundation and the Resuscitation Council UK, tens of thousands of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in the UK every year, and survival rates remain low, in the region of one in ten. Early CPR and early use of a defibrillator dramatically improve those odds. That is why training matters.
Having at least one trained emergency first aider is not just a box-ticking exercise. It is one of the most practical ways to protect your people.
3. What does UK law say about workplace first aid?
In Great Britain, workplace first aid is governed by the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981. These regulations place a duty on employers to provide adequate and appropriate equipment, facilities and personnel so that employees can be given immediate help if they are injured or become ill at work.
The key points for employers are:
You must carry out a first aid needs assessment. This means looking at the specific risks in your workplace and deciding what first aid provision you need. The HSE recommends considering things like the nature of the work, the size of the workforce, the history of accidents, whether people work alone or off-site, and whether members of the public visit.
You must provide suitable first aid arrangements. This could be an appointed person, trained first aiders, or both, depending on your needs assessment.
You must tell your employees about the arrangements. Staff should know who the first aiders are and where the first aid kit is kept.
You must ensure first aiders are properly trained. HSE expects first aiders to hold a valid certificate from a training provider that meets recognised standards, or from a regulated awarding organisation.
The law does not prescribe a single number of first aiders for every workplace. Instead, it expects you to base your decision on a proper risk assessment. That is where the difference between EFAW and the longer First Aid at Work course becomes important.
Note: This article is general guidance and not legal advice. Employers should always check the current HSE guidance for their own situation.
4. EFAW vs First Aid at Work (FAW): which one do you need?
Many people are unsure which workplace first aid course to choose. Here is a clear comparison.
| Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) | First Aid at Work (FAW) | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 day (about 6 hours) | 3 days (about 18 hours) |
| Focus | Life-threatening emergencies | Emergencies plus a wider range of injuries and illnesses |
| Suitable for | Low-risk workplaces and as a stepping stone | Higher-risk or larger workplaces |
| Certificate validity | 3 years | 3 years |
| BeTrained price | £89 | See our website |
Emergency First Aid at Work covers the essentials: how to assess an incident, perform CPR, use a defibrillator, help a choking casualty, control severe bleeding, and manage unconsciousness, shock and minor injuries.
First Aid at Work includes everything in EFAW and then goes further, covering things like fractures, spinal injuries, eye injuries, poisoning, chest injuries, medical conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy and asthma, and more detailed injury management.
If your needs assessment shows your workplace is low-risk, such as a small office or shop, EFAW may be enough. If your workplace has higher hazards or a larger workforce, you may need trained first aiders who hold the full FAW qualification. A good provider will help you work out which is right for you.
5. How many first aiders does your workplace need?
There is no single figure that fits every business, but the HSE gives useful guidance as a starting point. These are suggestions, and your own needs assessment should always take priority.
Low-risk workplaces (for example offices, shops, libraries):
- Fewer than 25 employees: at least one appointed person, who takes charge in an emergency and looks after equipment.
- 25 to 50 employees: at least one first aider trained in EFAW or FAW.
- More than 50 employees: at least one first aider for every 100 employees (or part of that number).
Higher-risk workplaces (for example light engineering, construction, food processing, warehousing, chemical work):
- Fewer than 5 employees: at least one appointed person.
- 5 to 50 employees: at least one first aider trained in EFAW or FAW, depending on the type of injuries that may occur.
- More than 50 employees: at least one first aider trained in FAW for every 50 employees (or part of that number).
Things that increase how many first aiders you need:
- Staff working across multiple floors or buildings
- Shift work, early starts, late finishes and weekends
- Annual leave and sickness (you need cover when first aiders are absent)
- Remote or lone working
- Members of the public on site
- Employees with specific health needs
The simple rule many London employers follow is to train more people than the minimum. If your only first aider is on holiday or off sick, you effectively have no first aider. Training two or three people instead of one gives you real resilience.
6. Who should take an Emergency First Aid at Work course?
The EFAW course is suitable for almost anyone aged 16 or over. In particular, it is ideal for:
- Office workers and managers who want to be a designated first aider or help meet their company’s needs assessment.
- Small business owners who want to protect their staff and customers.
- Retail and hospitality staff, where customer incidents such as choking, fainting or burns are common.
- Teachers and school staff looking for a workplace qualification (note that schools may need additional paediatric training for working with young children).
- Gym, leisure and fitness staff, who work in environments where collapses and injuries are more likely.
- Construction and site workers who need a baseline qualification, alongside a full FAW where the risk is higher.
- Facilities, security and reception teams, who are often the first point of contact when something goes wrong.
- Charity and community volunteers who run events and activities.
- Anyone who wants to be prepared, including parents, carers and people who simply want to know what to do.
You do not need any prior experience. If you can follow instructions and are willing to take part in practical exercises, you can pass.
7. What you will learn on the course
The EFAW syllabus covers the skills most likely to save a life at work. Here is what you can expect to cover on your BeTrained course in London.
The role and responsibilities of a first aider
You will learn what an emergency first aider is expected to do, and just as importantly what they should not do. This includes:
- Understanding the aims of first aid: preserve life, prevent the condition worsening, and promote recovery
- Staying within the limits of your training
- Keeping yourself and others safe
- Basic hygiene and infection control, including the use of gloves
- Recording incidents and passing information to the emergency services
Assessing an emergency situation safely
Before you help anyone, you must make sure the scene is safe. You will practise:
- Doing a quick scene survey for dangers such as traffic, fire, electricity or unstable structures
- Carrying out a primary survey (checking response, airway and breathing)
- Knowing when and how to call 999 or 112, and what information to give
- Getting help from others and delegating tasks, such as fetching the first aid kit or defibrillator
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
This is the heart of the course. You will learn and practise adult CPR on manikins, following the latest Resuscitation Council UK guidelines. This includes:
- Recognising cardiac arrest (unresponsive and not breathing normally)
- Giving chest compressions at the correct depth and speed
- Giving rescue breaths
- Continuing until help arrives, an AED is ready, or the casualty shows signs of life
- Practising in pairs, so you build stamina and confidence
CPR can feel daunting, but practising it repeatedly in a safe environment removes the fear and makes the steps automatic.
Using an automated external defibrillator (AED)
Defibrillators are becoming more common in London workplaces, stations, gyms and public spaces. They are designed to be used by untrained people, but training makes you faster and more confident. You will learn:
- What an AED does and why it matters
- How to attach pads correctly
- How to follow the spoken prompts
- How to combine CPR and AED use safely
Helping an unconscious casualty who is breathing
If a person is unresponsive but breathing normally, their airway must be protected. You will practise:
- Opening the airway
- Checking breathing
- Placing a casualty into the recovery position
- Monitoring them until help arrives
Choking
Choking can happen in canteens, meetings, restaurants or anywhere people eat. You will learn how to:
- Recognise mild vs severe choking
- Encourage coughing in mild cases
- Give back blows and abdominal thrusts for severe choking
- Respond if the casualty becomes unresponsive
Severe bleeding
Heavy bleeding can become life-threatening quickly. You will learn how to:
- Apply direct pressure to a wound
- Use dressings and bandages effectively
- Treat embedded objects safely
- Recognise when to call for emergency help
- Protect yourself from blood-borne infection
Shock
Shock is a life-threatening condition that can follow serious injury, bleeding or illness. You will learn to recognise signs such as pale, cold, clammy skin and a fast pulse, and how to treat the casualty while waiting for professional help.
Minor injuries
You will also cover common workplace injuries, including:
- Minor cuts, grazes and bruises
- Small burns and scalds (how to cool them correctly)
- Splinters
- Nosebleeds
- Minor head bumps and when to be concerned
Recognising and responding to common medical emergencies
Depending on the course structure, you will also learn the basic signs and first actions for things such as:
- Heart attack
- Stroke (using the FAST test)
- Seizures
- Fainting
- Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
- Asthma attacks
Your trainer will explain what to look for, how to keep the person safe and when to call an ambulance.
8. How the one-day course runs
Here is a typical running order for a BeTrained Emergency First Aid at Work course in London. Exact timings can vary by group size and venue.
Morning
- Welcome, introductions and course overview
- The role of the first aider and workplace legal responsibilities
- Scene safety and the primary survey
- Calling for help
- Adult CPR theory and practice
- Using an AED
Midday break
- A lunch break, giving you time to rest before the afternoon
Afternoon
- The unconscious breathing casualty and the recovery position
- Choking
- Severe bleeding and shock
- Minor injuries and common medical conditions
- Scenario practice, where you apply what you have learned to realistic situations
- Final assessment and certification
The day is very practical. You will not just watch; you will do. Small group sizes mean your trainer can give you proper feedback and extra practice where you need it.
9. Assessment: what to expect
Many people worry about the assessment, but it is straightforward and supportive. There is no written exam that you need to stress about. Instead, assessment is ongoing throughout the day and is based on:
- Practical demonstrations. Your trainer observes you performing skills such as CPR, placing someone in the recovery position, dealing with a choking casualty and controlling bleeding.
- Oral questions. You may be asked short questions to confirm you understand key points.
- Participation. Taking part in group scenarios and exercises.
The aim is to confirm that you are competent, not to trip you up. If you need extra support or practice on a skill, your trainer will help you until you are ready.
If you have a disability, a learning difficulty or any other need that might affect how you take part, contact us before the course. We are happy to make reasonable adjustments.
10. Course price in London: why £89 is good value
The price of an Emergency First Aid at Work course in London varies between providers. Some charge significantly more, especially for central venues, while others lower the price by increasing class sizes or cutting practical time.
At BeTrained, our one-day EFAW course costs £89 per person. That’s a competitive price for a regulated qualification in London.
What’s typically included:
- A full day of instructor-led, practical training
- Use of manikins, AED trainers and first aid equipment
- Course materials
- Your certificate on successful completion
- Support from an experienced trainer
Here’s why this price makes sense for both individuals and employers:
For employers, the cost of one trained first aider is tiny compared with the cost of an incident handled badly. Think of lost working time, potential claims, regulatory issues, and, most importantly, the human cost.
For individuals, an EFAW certificate is a recognised qualification that can strengthen your CV, qualify you for first aider allowances in some roles, and give you life-saving skills for use at home and in the community.
For groups, if you want to train several employees, get in touch with us for group enquiries or on-site training arrangements.
Before you compare prices, always check:
- Is the course regulated or accepted by recognised bodies?
- Is the certificate included in the price?
- How many people will be in the class?
- How long is the actual training day?
- Are there any hidden extras?
A very cheap course that is not recognised, or that doesn’t give you enough practice time, is not good value no matter what it costs.
11. Certificate validity and refresher training
Your Emergency First Aid at Work certificate is valid for three years from the date of issue. Before it expires, you must retake the course (or an appropriate requalification) to remain qualified as a workplace first aider.
Important: Do not wait until the last day. Book your requalification in good time, because if your certificate lapses you are no longer considered a qualified first aider for workplace purposes.
Annual refresher training
The HSE strongly recommends that first aiders undertake annual refresher training in between formal requalification, even though it is not a legal requirement. Skills such as CPR fade quickly if they are not practised. A short refresher each year keeps your knowledge sharp and your confidence high, and it also means you will be ready when your requalification date comes round.
Keeping your skills fresh
Between courses, you can:
- Watch updated guidance videos from reputable organisations
- Practise CPR with a colleague or at home on a cushion (to refresh the rhythm)
- Review your workplace first aid kit and AED location regularly
- Join in with company drills and emergency scenarios
12. How to choose an EFAW provider in London
With so many training companies in London, it can be hard to know who to trust. Use this checklist.
1. Recognised qualification. Check the course is regulated or delivered by a centre approved by a recognised awarding organisation. Ask which body issues the certificate. At BeTrained, our course is delivered in line with HSE requirements, with certification through [awarding body name].
2. Experienced, qualified trainers. Good trainers have real first aid experience, not just a teaching certificate. Ask about their backgrounds.
3. Practical, hands-on delivery. You should spend most of the day doing, not listening. Ask about the ratio of manikins to learners.
4. Small class sizes. Large groups mean less practice time and less individual feedback. Look for providers who limit numbers.
5. Clear, upfront pricing. The price you see should be the price you pay. Ask whether the certificate, materials and any extras are included.
6. Convenient location and dates. London is big. Choose a venue that’s easy to reach by public transport, with flexible dates, including weekdays and weekends where available.
7. Genuine reviews. Look for recent, honest feedback from real learners on independent platforms.
8. Responsive support. A good provider answers questions quickly and clearly before you book, and supports you afterwards.
9. Support for employers. If you are booking for a business, check the provider can help with needs assessments, group bookings and renewal reminders.
13. Training at your workplace vs a public course
You have two main options for taking your EFAW course in London.
Public course (individual booking)
You attend a scheduled course at a training venue alongside other learners.
Best for:
- Individuals paying for their own training
- Small businesses sending one or two staff
- People who want flexibility on dates
Advantages: Simple booking, set price per person, meet people from other organisations.
On-site (in-house) training
A trainer comes to your office or workplace and delivers the course to your team.
Best for:
- Companies training several employees at once
- Teams who prefer training in their own environment
- Organisations that want training to reflect their actual layout and risks
Advantages: No travel for staff, scenarios can be tailored to your workplace, and it is often more cost-effective for larger groups.
If you are interested in on-site training for your London business, contact BeTrained to discuss your needs and get a tailored quote.
14. How to prepare for your course day
A little preparation makes the day smoother and more enjoyable.
What to wear. Comfortable, loose clothing. You will be kneeling on the floor and moving around during practical sessions.
What to bring.
- Photo ID (if requested by your provider)
- Your booking confirmation
- A notebook and pen if you like making notes
- Any medication you need during the day
- Lunch and a drink, or money for nearby food options, depending on venue arrangements
Arrive on time. Because the course is one day and assessment is continuous, you generally need to attend the full session to be certified. Late arrivals can miss key content.
Let us know about any needs in advance. This includes mobility issues, medical conditions or learning support requirements.
Come with an open mind. You do not need to know anything beforehand. Nobody is expected to be perfect. Asking questions is encouraged.
15. Common myths about workplace first aid
Myth 1: “I might hurt someone if I do CPR wrong.”
In reality, someone in cardiac arrest is already in a life-threatening situation. Doing something is far better than doing nothing. Training helps you do it properly.
Myth 2: “The first aid kit is enough.”
A kit is only useful if someone knows how to use what is in it. Trained people are essential.
Myth 3: “We’re just an office; nothing happens here.”
Offices see heart attacks, collapses, falls, burns from hot drinks, choking and allergic reactions. Low-risk does not mean no-risk.
Myth 4: “I could be sued if I help.”
UK law and public policy generally support people who act reasonably and in good faith to help in an emergency. Training also gives you the knowledge to act appropriately. If you are concerned about a specific situation, speak with a legal professional.
Myth 5: “A one-day course can’t teach me anything useful.”
The EFAW course is designed to be focused, practical and effective. You will leave with the skills to handle the most common life-threatening emergencies.
Myth 6: “Defibrillators are dangerous.”
Modern AEDs are designed to be safe and simple. They will only deliver a shock if one is needed, and they guide you step by step.
16. Frequently asked questions
How long is the Emergency First Aid at Work course in London?
The course takes one day, typically around six hours of learning time, plus breaks.
How much does the course cost?
At BeTrained, the Emergency First Aid at Work course costs £89 per person.
Is the EFAW certificate valid for 3 years?
Yes. Your certificate is valid for three years from the date of issue. The HSE recommends annual refresher training to keep your skills current.
Is there an exam?
There is no formal written exam. You are assessed through practical demonstrations and oral questions during the day.
Do I need any prior first aid knowledge?
No. The course is suitable for complete beginners.
What is the minimum age for the course?
Generally, learners should be 16 or over. Contact us if you have a specific query.
Will this course make me a legally recognised workplace first aider?
Successful completion gives you a recognised Emergency First Aid at Work certificate, which allows you to act as an emergency first aider where your employer’s needs assessment supports this. Employers remain responsible for their own first aid needs assessment.
Is EFAW enough for my business?
It depends on your workplace risks and size. Low-risk workplaces may be well covered by EFAW trained staff, while higher-risk or larger workplaces may need the full First Aid at Work qualification. A needs assessment will help you decide.
Can I book for a group of employees?
Yes. Contact BeTrained for group bookings or on-site training at your workplace in London.
Does the course cover paediatric (child) first aid?
EFAW focuses on adult first aid in the workplace. If you work with children or infants, you may need a separate paediatric first aid qualification.
What happens if I do not pass?
Our trainers support you throughout the day. If you need extra practice on a skill, we will help you until you are competent. If you have concerns, speak to your trainer before assessment.
How do I renew my certificate?
Book a requalification course before your certificate expires. We recommend booking a few weeks ahead so you do not lose your qualified status.
17. Final thoughts and how to book
A medical emergency can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. In a city as busy as London, having people who know what to do in those first critical minutes makes a genuine difference to your colleagues, customers and community.
The Emergency First Aid at Work course gives you the skills, confidence and certification to be that person. It is one day, it is practical, it is accessible to complete beginners, and at £89 with BeTrained, it is a small investment with a potentially life-saving return.
Whether you are an employer looking to meet your responsibilities, a manager building a safer team, or an individual who wants to be prepared, now is the right time to book.
Ready to get trained?
Book your Emergency First Aid at Work course in London with BeTrained today.
- One-day, practical training
- Just £89 per person
- Regulated certification valid for three years
- Friendly, experienced trainers
- Group and on-site options available
[Book your course now →]
Because emergencies do not wait, be trained before you need to be.
