Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Adult Basic Life Support and Automated External Defibrillation (RQF)

Course Overview

Every second counts in a cardiac emergency. The Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Adult Basic Life Support and Automated External Defibrillation (RQF) is a focused, practical qualification that prepares you to perform effective CPR and safely operate an automated external defibrillator (AED). Based on the recommendations of the Resuscitation Council (UK) and a panel of emergency medical experts, this half-day course is ideal for those with a specific responsibility at work, or in community and voluntary roles, to provide basic life support when an emergency arises.

Who Is This Course For?

• Individuals with a specific first aid responsibility at work who need focused BLS and AED training
• Community and voluntary workers who may be called upon in a cardiac emergency
• Those looking to build or refresh their CPR and defibrillation skills
• Anyone wishing to feel confident using a public access defibrillator

What You Will Learn

• Chain of survival — understanding why each link matters
• Incident and casualty assessment
• Adult CPR — correct technique and rate
• Safe use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) — including correct pad placement
• CPR and AED considerations (e.g., pregnancy, implanted devices, wet surfaces)
• Recovery position — when and how to use it
• Continual monitoring of an unresponsive, breathing casualty

Certification

On successful completion you will receive an Ofqual-regulated Level 3 Award certificate. Annual renewal is strongly recommended to maintain competency and keep pace with any updates to resuscitation guidelines.

Progression

This qualification can be used as a standalone refresher or complement a broader first aid qualification. It is recommended as an annual refresher for holders of First Aid at Work and Emergency First Aid at Work certificates.