ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA)

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA) is a comprehensive qualification designed to equip learners with the essential skills and knowledge required to manage medical emergencies in outdoor and remote environments. This course is ideal for individuals who work or participate in activities in rural or wilderness settings, where immediate access to medical facilities may be limited.

Throughout the course, learners will gain practical experience in assessing and managing a range of injuries and medical emergencies, including fractures, dislocations, and medical conditions such as asthma and diabetes. The training also covers environmental injuries like hypothermia and heatstroke, ensuring that learners are prepared to respond effectively to a variety of situations.

The OFA qualification is delivered through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on practical sessions, providing learners with the confidence and competence to act decisively in emergency situations. Successful completion of the course results in a nationally recognised qualification, valid for three years, demonstrating the learner’s ability to provide first aid in outdoor environments.

Course overview

Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 16 years old at the time of assessment
  • Physical Capability: While no specific fitness level is mandated, candidates should be physically capable of performing basic first aid techniques, including CPR compressions and assisting with moving injured individuals if necessary.
  • Experience: No previous first aid knowledge or experience is necessary; however, a keen interest in outdoor activities and a commitment to learning are essential.
  • English Language Proficiency: Since the course is conducted in English, participants should have proficient English language skills to engage with course materials effectively, participate in discussions, and complete written assignments.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA), consists of 4 mandatory units.

  1. Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of a First Aider in Outdoor Environments
  2. Managing an Unresponsive Casualty in Outdoor Settings
  3. Managing Injuries and Medical Emergencies in Outdoor Environments
  4. Outdoor Incident Management and Evacuation Procedures

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA):

1. Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of a First Aider in Outdoor Environments

  • Identify the key responsibilities of an outdoor first aider.
  • Understand the importance of risk assessment and hazard identification in outdoor settings.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of appropriate first aid equipment for outdoor environments.
  • Recognise the need for consent when providing first aid.
  • Understand the legal and ethical considerations in outdoor first aid.

2. Managing an Unresponsive Casualty in Outdoor Setting

  • Conduct a primary survey to assess the casualty’s condition.
  • Determine the need for resuscitation and perform CPR if necessary.
  • Place a casualty in the recovery position safely.
  • Monitor the casualty’s breathing and pulse regularly.
  • Recognise signs of life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest

3. Managing Injuries and Medical Emergencies in Outdoor Environments

  • Identify and treat various injuries, including fractures, dislocations, and sprains.
  • Manage bleeding and shock effectively.
  • Provide first aid for burns, scalds, and other soft tissue injuries.
  • Recognise and respond to medical emergencies such as asthma attacks, seizures, and diabetic emergencies.
  • Understand the principles of wound care and infection control

4. Outdoor Incident Management and Evacuation Procedures

  • Assess the scene of an incident for safety and potential hazards.
  • Implement appropriate evacuation procedures in outdoor settings.
  • Use communication equipment effectively to summon assistance.
  • Coordinate with emergency services and provide accurate information.
  • Understand the principles of casualty management during evacuation

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA) equips learners with essential skills to respond effectively to emergencies in remote and outdoor environments. It is designed for individuals working in outdoor, adventure, and high-risk settings where immediate medical support may not be readily available.

  • Progression to advanced wilderness and remote first aid qualifications
  • Development into outdoor activity leader and instructor roles
  • Opportunities in adventure tourism and expedition support services
  • Roles in outdoor education and field-based training environments
  • Entry into search and rescue support services
  • Career development in sports coaching and outdoor safety supervision
  • Progression into workplace health and safety officer roles
  • Opportunities in security and emergency response services
  • Advancement into occupational health and safety assistant positions
  • Enhanced employability in public and private outdoor and adventure sectors

FAQs

This qualification is suitable for:

  • Outdoor activity instructors
  • Mountain leaders
  • Climbing instructors
  • Ski instructors
  • Paddlesport instructors
  • Mountain bike leaders

Learners will gain practical skills in assessing and managing outdoor emergencies, providing first aid in remote locations, and responding to injuries in challenging environments. The course also develops skills in patient assessment, emergency decision-making, wound care, fracture management, environmental hazard awareness, and effective communication during emergency situations.

ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA) is 3 days training programme. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA) in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Learners can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA) is an assessment-based qualification. Learners are required to complete mandatory assessments consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). A minimum score of 75% is required to successfully pass the assessments and achieve the qualification.