first aid AND PRE-HOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE
first aid AND PRE-HOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE
First Aid Response (FAR)
PHECC accredited workplace first aid training for organisations and individuals
3 day | Certified programme | In-person / On-site
Blended option in association with UFAS available
Nationwide across Ireland
Course overview
The PHECC First Aid Response FAR course prepares participants to act as trained First Aid Responders in the workplace. PHECC FAR is now the recognised standard for occupational first aid in Irish workplaces.
This programme meets the legal requirements of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Regulations 2007 and is the recognised standard for workplace first aid in Ireland.
Training focuses on practical patient assessment, emergency response and ongoing casualty care, ensuring participants are confident to respond effectively while awaiting emergency services.
The PHECC First Aid Response training standard is recognised by the HSA as the standard for occupational first aid in Irish workplaces. Training is delivered by experienced, qualified instructors from multi-disciplinary backgrounds including emergency response, healthcare and education.
Who this course is for
This course is suitable for:
- Employees designated as workplace first aiders
- Supervisors and managers
- Health & safety representatives
- Staff working in higher-risk environments
- Organisations meeting statutory first aid obligations
No formal educational entry requirements apply.
Participants are recommended to be 16 years of age or older.
What you will learn
Participants will develop practical competence in:
- Patient assessment and scene safety
- Cardiac first response (community level)
- Management of common medical emergencies
- Injury management and shock
- Care of the unconscious patient
- Burns and electrical injury care
- Hypothermia and hyperthermia
- Information management and incident reporting
- Communication during emergencies
- Wellbeing of the first aid responder
Training is hands-on, scenario-based and aligned with real workplace emergencies.
Assessment
Assessment is completed through:
- Multiple choice questions (MCQ)
- Practical skills assessment
Successful completion of both components is required for certification.
Why choose First Aid Coaching
- PHECC Approved Training Institution
- Experienced, multi-disciplinary instructors
- Practical, compliance-led training approach
- Nationwide delivery for organisations
- Trusted by employers across multiple sectors
PHECC FAR Course FAQs
What is a PHECC First Aid Response FAR course?
The PHECC First Aid Response FAR course is the recognised workplace first aid training standard in Ireland. It is designed for workplace first aiders, employers, organisations and individuals who need practical, structured and recognised first aid training.
Who should complete a PHECC FAR course?
The FAR course is suitable for designated workplace first aiders, health and safety representatives, managers, supervisors, community organisations, sports organisations and individuals who need a recognised first aid qualification.
How long is the in-person PHECC FAR course?
The in-person PHECC First Aid Response FAR course is delivered over 3 days / 18 hours.
Is a blended PHECC FAR course available?
Yes. A blended PHECC FAR course may be available where permitted. This usually includes an online theory component followed by in-person practical training and assessment. The Blended Learning PHECC FAR Refresher/Recertification course, delivered in conjunction with UFAS, is delivered over 12 hours ( 6 hours online with 6 hours in person training). The full PHECC FAR course is 18 hours (9 hours online with 9 hours in person training).
How does the blended FAR course work?
The blended FAR course combines online theory with practical classroom training. Learners complete the online learning element first, then attend the in-person training days to practise skills, complete scenarios and undertake assessment.
Is the blended FAR course the same qualification as the in-person FAR course?
Yes. Where delivered through the correct recognised route, the blended FAR course leads to the same PHECC First Aid Response certification as the full in-person course.
What topics are covered on the FAR course?
The PHECC FAR course covers topics such as patient assessment, incident procedure, scene safety, CPR, AED use, choking, stroke, heart attack, asthma, diabetes, seizures, fainting, bleeding, wounds, fractures, sprains, strains, burns, shock, hypothermia, hyperthermia, care of the unconscious casualty, communications and handover.
Does the FAR course include CPR and AED training?
Yes. CPR and AED training are included as part of the PHECC First Aid Response FAR course.
Is FAR the same as Occupational First Aid?
FAR replaced the older Occupational First Aid standard. The PHECC First Aid Response course is the new standard.
How long is the FAR certificate valid?
The PHECC First Aid Response FAR certificate is valid for 2 years.
What is the learner-to-instructor ratio?
PHECC FAR training is delivered in line with the required instructor-to-learner ratio. The maximum ratio is 1 instructor to 8 learners.
Do you provide group FAR training?
Yes. First Aid Coaching provides group FAR training for workplaces, organisations and community groups. Training can be arranged on-site or at an agreed training location.
Can FAR training be delivered at our workplace?
Yes. Group FAR training can be delivered on-site at your workplace, subject to suitable space, learner numbers, equipment requirements and course arrangements.
Do you offer public FAR course dates?
Yes. Public FAR course dates may be available. Please check current availability or contact First Aid Coaching for upcoming dates.
What do learners need to bring?
Learners should bring photo ID and any information requested at the time of booking. For blended courses, learners must complete the online theory and provide proof of completion, For PHECC FAR Recertification courses, we will require a copy of your previous certificate or certificate number.
How do I book a PHECC FAR course?
Please contact our team and we will be happy to help.
Book your First Aid Response Training
Complete the form below to request your place on an upcoming First Aid Response (FAR) course. Once we receive your enquiry, our team will contact you with available dates, locations and booking details to help you renew your certification quickly and conveniently.
Certification and standards
On completion, participants receive the PHECC First Aid Response certificate, issued in accordance with current national clinical guidance.
This certification supports workplace compliance and best practice under Irish health and safety legislation.