Which First Aid Course?

Which First Aid Course Do I Need? A Guide by Role and Workplace

There are no entry requirements for a first aid course — no medical background, no exam to get in. The only real decision is which course matches the people you are likely to help.

Quick guide

Adults at work or at home: Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED. Children: Pediatric First Aid CPR AED. CPR and defibrillator only: Heartsaver CPR AED. Employer specifies a UK-style qualification: Highfield Level 3 Emergency First Aid. Supporting colleagues in distress: Mental Health First Aid. Healthcare staff: BLS.

By role

You are…Usually take
An office, retail, hotel or site worker nominated as first aiderHeartsaver First Aid CPR AED
A teacher, nursery worker, nanny or parentPediatric First Aid CPR AED
A gym instructor, lifeguard assistant or security officer who mainly needs CPRHeartsaver CPR AED
Working for a company that requires a Highfield qualificationHighfield Level 3 Emergency First Aid
A manager or HR professional supporting wellbeingMental Health First Aid
A nurse, doctor, dentist or other clinicianBLS — see first aid vs BLS

Physical requirements

You will kneel on the floor and practise chest compressions. If an injury or pregnancy makes that difficult, tell us when you book and the instructor will adapt the practice.

Language and literacy

Our courses are taught in English with plenty of demonstration and hands-on practice, so first aiders whose first language is not English generally do well. Let us know in advance if your team needs extra support.

What to bring

Photo ID and comfortable clothes. Everything else is provided — see what to expect on the day.

Other life support and first aid courses: BLS Course · ACLS Course · PALS Course · Training calendar

Frequently asked questions

Do I need any qualification before a first aid course?

No, there are no prerequisites.

Is there a minimum age?

Ask us when booking; younger learners are usually welcome if they can perform the skills.

Which course is best for a workplace first aider?

Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED, unless your employer specifies another.

Which course is best for teachers?

Pediatric First Aid CPR AED.

Can I take first aid if my English is limited?

Yes, most learning is by demonstration and practice. Tell us in advance if support is needed.

Should healthcare staff take first aid?

Usually no; they need BLS.

Book a first aid course in Abu Dhabi

Safety First Medical Services is an American Heart Association training centre on Al Reem Island. Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED, Pediatric First Aid and CPR AED courses for individuals, with on-site training for companies, schools and clinics across the UAE.

See first aid dates and register First aid course overview Company or school enquiry

Sources and further reading

What we teach follows the awarding body and the UAE health authorities. For the definitive position on a course or licensing question, these are the places to check.

Last reviewed by the training team at Safety First Medical Services, an American Heart Association training centre at Addax Office Tower, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. Call +971 55 761 9841 or email training@safetyfirstmed.ae.