# First Aid Level 2 vs Level 3: What's the Difference?

> Compare First Aid Level 2 (EFAW) and Level 3 (FAW) qualifications. See the differences in content, duration, who needs which level, and how to choose the right one for your workplace.

Source: https://getmytestscore.co.uk/first-aid-level-2-vs-level-3

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# First Aid Level 2 vs Level 3: What's the Difference?

Choosing between First Aid Level 2 and Level 3 depends on your workplace risk level, the number of employees, and your role. Here's a clear comparison to help you decide which qualification you need.

## Side-by-Side Comparison

| Feature | Level 2 (EFAW) | Level 3 (FAW) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Full name | Emergency First Aid at Work | First Aid at Work |
| Course duration | 1 day (6-7 hours) | 3 days (18 hours) |
| Certificate validity | 3 years | 3 years |
| Requalification | 1-day course | 2-day course |
| Depth of content | Basic life-saving skills | Comprehensive first aid |
| Best for | Low-risk workplaces, small teams | Higher-risk workplaces, larger teams |
| Regulated by | HSE / Ofqual | HSE / Ofqual |

## What Does Level 2 Cover?

First Aid Level 2 (Emergency First Aid at Work) teaches the essential life-saving skills every first aider needs:

-   The role and responsibilities of a first aider
-   Assessing an incident and calling for help
-   CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) for adults
-   Using an AED (automated external defibrillator)
-   Treating an unconscious casualty (recovery position)
-   Managing choking
-   Controlling severe bleeding
-   Recognising and treating shock
-   Managing minor injuries (cuts, bumps, minor burns)

## What Does Level 3 Add?

First Aid Level 3 (First Aid at Work) includes everything in Level 2 **plus** advanced topics:

-   Managing fractures, dislocations, and sprains
-   Spinal injury management
-   Serious burns and scalds
-   Eye injuries
-   Poisoning and substance exposure
-   Anaphylaxis and severe allergic reactions
-   Heart attacks, strokes, and angina
-   Diabetic emergencies
-   Seizures and epilepsy
-   Asthma attacks
-   Hypothermia and heat stroke
-   Casualty management and prioritisation (triage)

## Which Level Do You Need?

**Your employer decides** based on a first aid needs assessment. The assessment considers: the nature of the work, workplace hazards, the number of employees, the history of accidents, and how far away the nearest emergency services are.

### Choose Level 2 if:

-   Your workplace is low-risk (office, shop, library)
-   You have fewer than 25 employees
-   Emergency services are close by
-   You need a basic emergency responder

### Choose Level 3 if:

-   Your workplace is medium or high-risk (construction, manufacturing, warehouse, kitchen)
-   You have 25 or more employees
-   Emergency services may take longer to arrive (rural areas)
-   You want the most comprehensive first aid qualification
-   Your employer's first aid needs assessment requires FAW-qualified first aiders

### Start Learning First Aid Today

Our free online First Aid Level 2 course covers CPR, wound management, burns, shock, fractures, and medical emergencies. Perfect for building your knowledge before a practical qualification or refreshing existing skills.

[Start First Aid Level 2 Course](/course?id=first-aid-l2)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Can I go straight to Level 3 without doing Level 2 first?

Yes. Level 3 (FAW) is a standalone qualification. You do not need to complete Level 2 first. The Level 3 course covers all Level 2 content and extends it further.

### Is Level 2 or Level 3 better for my CV?

Level 3 carries more weight as it is the more comprehensive qualification. However, Level 2 is perfectly valid and demonstrates essential life-saving competence. Many employers accept either depending on the role.

### Are these qualifications regulated?

Yes. When delivered by an approved training provider, both Level 2 and Level 3 first aid qualifications are regulated by Ofqual (the qualifications regulator for England) and recognised by the HSE.

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