Tuesday Tip Day: Do you know the difference between first aid courses?

Here in Christchurch, at City First Aid, we follow the naming recommendations from the Association of Emergency Care Training Providers (AECTP) - the national body representing first aid and emergency care training providers across New Zealand.

We know the course names can be confusing, so here’s a simple change chart:

• Refresher First Aid ➡️ Revalidation First Aid

• First Aid at Work ➡️ Foundation First Aid

• Comprehensive / Workplace First Aid ➡️ New Zealand First Aid Certificate

Which course fits me?

Online Essentials

• 4 hours online.

• Fundamentals of first aid awareness.

• No practical class component.

• Great if you want to know what to do in an emergency but don’t need certification or hands-on practice.

• Unit standards: No.

First Aid Basics (FAB)

• 6 hours in class.

• Same content as Foundation, but without assessments.

• Perfect if you want the skills and confidence but don’t need NZQA unit standards.

• Unit standards: No.

Revalidation First Aid (REV)

• 6 hours in class. (or use the blended option of online learning and in person practical)

• For people who already hold a current first aid certificate.

• Updates knowledge and skills to keep you current.

Foundation First Aid (FFA)

• 8 hours in class (or blended online + class).

• Covers essential community and workplace first aid skills.

• Good for compliance or personal confidence.

• Unit standards: Yes (6402 and 6401)

New Zealand First Aid Certificate (NZFA)

• 12 hours total (usually two days, or blended online + class).

• More in-depth learning and complicated emergencies, including outdoor environments and managing more than one patient.

• Unit standards: Yes (6402, 6401 and 6400) usually required in high risk workplaces.

Can I do it faster online?

Yes. Many of our courses are available in a blended format, meaning you complete some learning online and spend less time in class.

• Revalidation: approx 3 hrs online + 3.5 hrs in person

• Foundation: approx 4 hrs online + 4.5 hrs in person

• NZFA: approx 4 hrs online + 8 hrs in person

Do I need unit standards?

Unit standards are nationally recognised qualifications registered with NZQA. You only need them if your workplace, industry, or training requirements require it.

Main first aid unit standards:

• 6402 – Provide Basic Life Support (CPR, choking, unconsciousness and severe bleeding. (immediately life-threatening emergencies)

• 6401 – Provide First Aid (managing common injuries and medical conditions)

• 6400 – Manage First Aid in an Emergency Situation (more complicated wounds and medical conditions, including head and spinal injuries)

Industries that typically require unit standards:

• Education (teachers, ECE, schools)

• Healthcare (hospitals, aged care, allied health)

• Construction and trades

• Forestry and agriculture

• Other high-risk industries where employers must meet strict health and safety requirements

If you’re not in one of these areas, First Aid Basics may be all you need - the same great skills, without the assessments.

Feel free to give us a call (0800 277 222), or drop us an email info@cityfirstaid.co.nz if you'd like to chat more,

Or if you know what course you need, feel free to book https://book.cityfirstaid.co.nz/