As the popularity of open water swimming, triathlons, and adventure sports continues to grow across the UK, so too does the demand for qualified professionals who can ensure the safety of participants in lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and inland water venues. The QualCert Level 3 Award in Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualification is designed to prepare individuals to manage safety, respond to emergencies, and perform rescues in open water environments where conditions can be unpredictable and challenging.
This nationally recognised qualification provides the essential skills and knowledge required to become a competent and confident open water lifeguard. It meets current industry standards and is suitable for a wide range of roles across recreational, competitive, and commercial open water settings.
The Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualification is a Level 3 Award regulated under the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). Developed by QualCert, it is intended for individuals who supervise, manage, or provide lifeguarding services at non-tidal open water venues such as lakes, reservoirs, and man-made inland beaches.
The course combines theory and practical training to ensure lifeguards are equipped to deal with real-life open water situations, from identifying risks and managing groups to executing rescues and providing emergency first aid.
QualCert is a respected awarding organisation known for its robust, industry-aligned qualifications in health, safety, and vocational training. Their Level 3 OWL qualification is developed in accordance with best practices from the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), the International Life Saving Federation (ILS), and national safety frameworks.
The OWL qualification is valid for two years. To remain certified, lifeguards must undertake a renewal course and pass reassessment to demonstrate continued competence. Successful completion of the OWL Award also opens pathways to further qualifications, such as the National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ), or instructor-level training for those wishing to teach or lead safety programmes.
Courses are delivered by QualCert-approved centres throughout the UK. Many providers operate seasonally at designated open water sites with appropriate safety infrastructure. Interested candidates can contact a local training provider or visit the QualCert website to find upcoming course dates and locations.
The QualCert Level 3 Award in Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualification is a vital certification for anyone involved in managing or supporting open water activities. With a strong focus on practical rescue skills, risk awareness, and emergency response, it prepares individuals to protect lives in unpredictable and potentially hazardous aquatic environments.
Whether you are pursuing a new career in lifeguarding or expanding your skill set within the outdoor adventure industry, this qualification offers the professional knowledge and practical confidence needed to ensure safety and uphold high standards of care in open water environments.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Award in Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualification:
The QualCert Level 3 Award in Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualification, offers 6 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 30 hours, including 18 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credit | GLH | TQT |
| QC24003 -1 | Roles, Responsibilities and Legal Considerations | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| QC24003-2 | Open Water Safety and Risk Management | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| QC24003-3 | Observation, Supervision and Incident Prevention | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| QC24003-4 | Rescue Techniques and Casualty Recovery in Open Water | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| QC24003-5 | First Aid and Emergency Response in Remote Environments | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| QC24003-6 | Communication, Equipment Use and Post-Incident Procedures | 1 | 3 | 5 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Award in Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualification:
To enroll in the QualCert Level 3 Award in Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualification, following are requirement:
Minimum Age
- Candidates must be 16 years of age or older on the day of final assessment.
- There is no upper age limit, provided the candidate meets the physical and communication standards required for open water lifeguarding.
Educational Background
- No formal academic qualifications are required for entry.
- A basic level of literacy and numeracy is recommended to support comprehension of course materials, safety protocols, and assessment tasks.
Experience
- No previous lifeguarding experience is required, although it is recommended that candidates are confident and capable in open water environments.
- All learners must be able to:
- Swim 400 metres continuously in open water
- Tread water for at least one minute
- Surface dive to a minimum depth of 1.5 metres
- Climb out of the water unaided
- Candidates should be in good physical health and capable of performing rescues under realistic open water conditions, including variable weather and temperature.
Language Proficiency
- Candidates must have a functional level of spoken and written English sufficient to:
- Understand verbal instructions and theoretical content
- Communicate clearly with casualties, colleagues, and emergency services
- Read safety signage, risk assessments, and operational procedures
- Complete written components of the assessment
Where English is not the candidate’s first language, reasonable support may be provided by the training provider. However, the learner must still demonstrate effective and accurate communication skills essential for operating safely in a high-risk, open water environment.
Learning Outcomes of QualCert Level 3 Award in Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualification:
Roles, Responsibilities and Legal Considerations
- Understand the scope of the open water lifeguard’s role
- Understand legal responsibilities under UK health and safety law
- Recognise professional boundaries and duty of care
- Understand relevant safeguarding and equality policies
- Comply with the Open Water Code of Conduct and operational protocols
Open Water Safety and Risk Management
- Identify environmental hazards such as currents, temperature, weather, visibility, and terrain
- Apply principles of dynamic and ongoing risk assessment
- Understand safe operating procedures and local regulations
- Plan for changing conditions including variable depths and hidden hazards
Observation, Supervision and Incident Prevention
- Understand effective supervision zones and positioning techniques
- Conduct swimmer headcounts and activity monitoring
- Recognise early signs of distress or danger in water users
- Implement proactive intervention to prevent incidents
Rescue Techniques and Casualty Recovery in Open Water
- Perform safe entries and exits using various approaches
- Execute wading, swimming, and equipment-based rescues
- Use rescue aids such as throw bags, rescue tubes, and boards
- Conduct non-contact and contact rescues in various open water scenarios
- Safely recover and land casualties on-shore for further treatment
First Aid and Emergency Response in Remote Environments
- Deliver CPR and manage drowning casualties in line with Resuscitation Council UK guidelines
- Provide treatment for injuries specific to open water (e.g. cold water shock, hypothermia, jellyfish stings)
- Apply triage principles in mass-casualty scenarios
- Understand the limitations of remote locations and coordinate emergency services effectively
Communication, Equipment Use and Post-Incident Procedures
- Use two-way radios and communication systems efficiently
- Understand whistle signals and visual signs used in open water venues
- Inspect, maintain and correctly use PPE and rescue equipment
- Complete accurate incident reports and participate in post-incident reviews
- Support the wellbeing of staff and casualties following traumatic events
The Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualification – Level 3 Award is designed for individuals who are responsible for the supervision and safety of participants in non-tidal open water environments such as lakes, reservoirs, and inland beaches. It is ideal for anyone involved in the management, delivery, or safety oversight of open water swimming and water-based recreational activities.
This course is suitable for:
- Aspiring Open Water Lifeguards
Individuals looking to begin a career or gain seasonal employment in outdoor leisure and open water safety roles. - Current Pool Lifeguards
Lifeguards who already hold pool-based qualifications and wish to expand their professional competence into open water environments. - Outdoor Activity Instructors and Watersports Coaches
Professionals involved in leading open water sessions, including paddleboarding, kayaking, triathlon training, and swim coaching. - Event Safety Personnel
Individuals working in open water events such as triathlons, swim runs, or charity races, who are responsible for participant safety. - Leisure Centre or Resort Staff
Employees at venues with designated swimming areas in lakes or man-made open water facilities who require a recognised qualification. - Volunteers and Community Leaders
Members of water safety initiatives, community swimming clubs, or youth organisations overseeing open water activities.
This qualification is also highly relevant for those seeking to enhance their CV, improve employability in the outdoor leisure industry, or meet health and safety compliance standards for aquatic supervision in open water settings.