August 12, 2025
In today’s busy world, knowing first aid is important and can save lives. Emergencies like slips at work or heart attacks at home can happen anytime. More people in the UK are getting first aid certified to be ready. However, picking the right first aid course can be tricky.
Two common options are the Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course and Basic Life Support (BLS) training. Though they seem similar, these courses serve different purposes and audiences. Both are available throughout the UK and can be vital in emergencies.
Whether you’re a business owner, employee, healthcare worker, or just someone who cares, this guide from N5 Academy explains the differences between EFAW and BLS to help you make a good choice.
The Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course is a recognised qualification that teaches important first aid skills for the workplace. This 1-day course is perfect for organisations that want to fulfil their legal health and safety duties in low to medium-risk settings.
Participants will finish the course feeling confident about handling different emergencies, especially at work. At N5 Academy, we provide realistic training that mirrors real-life situations.
Basic Life Support (BLS) training is a short course that teaches essential lifesaving skills. BLS is vital for healthcare workers and caregivers, but it’s also useful for anyone who wants to be ready for emergencies.
BLS training focuses on lifesaving actions that can be crucial in the first minutes of an emergency. Our basic life support training in the UK follows the guidelines set by the Resuscitation Council UK.
The EFAW course and BLS training are different in their focus, length, target audience, and goals. It’s important to understand these differences when picking a first aid course that fits your needs.
| Criteria | EFAW Course | BLS Training |
| Duration | 6 hours (1 day) | 2–3 hours |
| Focus | Workplace-related emergencies | Cardiac arrest and unresponsiveness |
| Audience | Employees, employers | Carers, healthcare workers, general public |
| Legal Requirement | Yes (for employers) | No (but widely recommended) |
| Validity | 3 years | 1 year (refreshers recommended) |
BLS training is important for healthcare roles, but the EFAW course is a better choice for businesses. It helps them meet compliance standards and create a safer workplace for employees.
The Emergency First Aid at Work course is a key qualification for many industries. If your job involves risks like physical work, dealing with the public, or using equipment, EFAW gives you the skills to handle emergencies confidently.
Employers must assess risks and ensure staff are properly trained. The one-day first aid at work course is perfect for teaching several employees quickly without disrupting operations.
At N5 Academy, our emergency first aid at work course focuses on real learning. We use simulations and hands-on practice to ensure every learner is prepared to take action.
Basic life support training is important for both professionals and community members. It helps people feel confident in emergencies.
Our basic life support course is easy to access. In just a few hours, you’ll learn how to perform CPR, use a defibrillator, and help someone with breathing problems until emergency services arrive.
UK employers must follow strict health and safety rules. The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 require employers to provide proper first aid support.
Employers in offices, warehouses, schools, and small retail stores must train their employees in first aid. The EFAW course meets this requirement.
BLS training isn’t required by law, but many jobs involving vulnerable people expect it. Most employers favour candidates who have finished a basic life support course in the UK.
Our trainers can help you stay compliant and update your skills as your business changes.
The two courses require different amounts of time. This can affect your choice based on how much time you have and how quickly you need to learn.
At N5 Academy, we provide flexible booking choices for individuals and organisations. You can select sessions on weekdays, weekends, or evenings if needed.
The EFAW course and BLS training give you official certificates that show you are ready to manage medical emergencies.
N5 Academy sends automated reminders so you won’t forget to renew your qualification. We issue certificates quickly, and employers, insurers, and industry regulators in the UK recognise them.
Choosing between EFAW and BLS is simple. Think about your daily tasks, legal requirements, and how ready you want to be.
Some people choose to take both courses. Many learners start with our basic life support training to build foundational skills, then move on to the emergency first aid at work course for more comprehensive knowledge.
At N5 Academy, we offer accredited training with a hands-on, people-centred approach. Our trainers have real-life experience in emergency services, healthcare, and education.
Join many happy learners who have improved their skills with N5 Academy and become confident in emergencies.
In an emergency, waiting too long can cost lives. When you take a first aid course, you learn skills that can help you make a difference.
By choosing EFAW, BLS, or both, you join a group of people ready to act in critical moments.
Not sure yet? Contact N5 Academy today. Our advisors can help you explore your options and find the right course for your schedule and goals.
We help you forge a successful career in health and safety. We’re a UK-based company providing top-notch safety training courses that adhere to industry standards.