Master Life-Saving Skills: Level 3 AED Training Award
The QualCert Level 3 Award in Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Programme is a specialized certification designed to equip candidates with the knowledge and practical skills to safely and effectively use an AED in emergencies. This course focuses on life-saving techniques for responding to cardiac arrest and sudden cardiac events, teaching candidates how to assess situations, perform CPR, and operate an AED correctly.
Ideal for workplace first aiders, safety officers, healthcare professionals, and anyone responsible for emergency response, this award combines theoretical learning with hands-on practical training. Candidates gain the confidence to act quickly and efficiently during cardiac emergencies, providing immediate care until professional medical assistance arrives.
By completing the QualCert Level 3 Award in AED Programme, candidates enhance their ability to save lives in both workplace and public settings. This internationally recognized qualification
Program Framework
The QualCert Level 3 Award in Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Programme, 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 |
| QC14024-1 | Understanding Cardiac Emergencies and Sudden Cardiac Arrest | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| QC14024-2 | Roles and Responsibilities of an AED First Aider | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| QC14024-3 | Performing a Primary Survey and Casualty Assessment | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| QC14024-4 | Performing High-Quality CPR in Line with Current Guidelines | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| QC14024-5 | Safe Use and Operation of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| QC14024-6 | Post-Use Procedures and Ongoing Casualty Monitoring | 1 | 3 | 5 |
Eligibility Criteria
The QualCert Level 3 Award in Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Programme is designed for candidates who want to gain essential life-saving skills to respond confidently to cardiac emergencies. The following entry requirements ensure candidates are fully prepared for the course:
- Minimum Age: Candidates must be at least 16 years old or meet local workplace training regulations.
- Educational Background: Candidates should have basic literacy and comprehension skills to understand course materials and complete assessments.
- Experience: No prior AED or first aid experience is required, although familiarity with workplace safety or first aid procedures is advantageous.
- Professional Experience: Suitable for workplace first aiders, safety officers, healthcare staff, and anyone responsible for emergency response.
- Language Proficiency: Candidates should have sufficient English proficiency to follow instructions, read course content, and actively participate in practical sessions.
Meeting these requirements ensures candidates can fully benefit from the training, develop essential AED and CPR skills, and respond effectively to cardiac emergencies in workplace or public settings, contributing to a safer environment for everyone.
Proficiency Targets
Understanding Cardiac Emergencies and Sudden Cardiac Arrest
- Define cardiac arrest and how it differs from a heart attack
- Identify common causes and risk factors associated with sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)
- Understand the importance of early defibrillation in improving survival rates
- Learn about the chain of survival and its components
- Recognise signs and symptoms of life-threatening cardiac emergencies
Roles and Responsibilities of an AED First Aider
- Understand the legal responsibilities and limitations of a first aider using an AED
- Identify appropriate scenarios for the deployment of an AED
- Understand the importance of personal safety and infection control measures
- Maintain confidentiality and accurate incident reporting
- Know how to access and maintain an AED within a workplace or public setting
Performing a Primary Survey and Casualty Assessment
- Conduct a scene safety check and risk assessment before approaching a casualty
- Perform a primary survey using the DRABC (Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation) method
- Check responsiveness and breathing in an unresponsive casualty
- Place a casualty in the recovery position when appropriate
- Identify when to call emergency services and provide key information
Performing High-Quality CPR in Line with Current Guidelines
- Deliver chest compressions and rescue breaths to adults, children, and infants
- Understand and apply correct hand placement, compression depth, and rate
- Learn when to perform compression-only CPR
- Address complications such as agonal breathing or regurgitation during CPR
- Use barrier devices effectively for infection control during resuscitation
Safe Use and Operation of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
- Turn on and prepare an AED for use in a real-life scenario
- Attach electrode pads correctly to adult and paediatric casualties
- Ensure safe delivery of shocks and clear bystanders during defibrillation
- Follow AED voice prompts confidently and correctly
- Troubleshoot common AED issues (battery, pad placement, user errors)
Post-Use Procedures and Ongoing Casualty Monitoring
- Continue CPR after defibrillation where necessary
- Monitor casualty condition during and after defibrillator use
- Prepare casualty information for handover to emergency medical services
- Clean and inspect the AED post-use and restock first aid supplies
- Record the incident in line with workplace policies and legal frameworks
Ideal Participants
The QualCert Level 3 Award in the Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is designed for individuals who may be required to use an AED in an emergency or who wish to gain confidence and competence in responding to a cardiac arrest situation.
This course is ideal for:
- Workplace first aiders looking to supplement their First Aid at Work (FAW) or Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification with AED-specific training
- Teachers, school staff, and childcare professionals responsible for safeguarding pupils and staff
- Sports coaches, fitness instructors, and leisure centre personnel working in environments where physical exertion is high
- Community volunteers, church groups, and event organisers operating in public spaces
- Security staff, stewards, and transport workers who may need to respond to public health emergencies
- Care home staff, carers, and home support workers supporting vulnerable individuals at risk of cardiac events
- Members of the public who want to be prepared to help in an emergency, especially in homes, community centres, or public venues with AED access
This qualification is particularly relevant in environments where an AED is available or required by policy, and where prompt action can make a life-saving difference.
Whether for professional responsibilities or personal preparedness, this course enables learners to respond quickly and effectively with the skills that truly matter in the minutes that count.
Assessment and Verification
Assessment Framework :
The qualification is assessed through a structured Multiple-Choice Question (MCQ)–based examination, designed to measure both theoretical understanding and practical application of knowledge. Key features of the assessment framework include:
- Evidence-Based Assessment:
MCQs are developed using industry-aligned standards to ensure the assessment reflects real-world competencies and current professional practices. - Structured Examination Format:
The exam consists of scenario-based and knowledge-based MCQs, requiring learners to demonstrate critical thinking and subject mastery. - Performance Threshold:
Learners must obtain a minimum score of 70% to successfully complete the qualification. This benchmark ensures that every certified learner meets QualCert’s required level of competence. - Assessment Integrity:
All assessments are conducted under controlled, secure conditions at approved training centres to maintain fairness, consistency, and integrity.
Quality Assurance & Verification :
QualCert applies a comprehensive, multi-layered quality assurance system to uphold international standards and ensure the reliability of all assessment outcomes.
1. Internal Quality Assurance (IQA)
Conducted by the approved training centre:
- Assessment Review:
Centre-approved Assessors and Internal Quality Assurers (IQAs) review learner evidence, scoring accuracy, and compliance with assessment criteria. - Standardisation Activities:
Regular standardisation meetings are conducted within centres to ensure consistent marking practices across all assessors. - Continuous Improvement:
IQAs provide feedback to Assessors to enhance assessment delivery, marking reliability, and learner support.
2. External Quality Assurance (EQA)
Conducted by QualCert:
- Independent Verification:
QualCert External Quality Assurers review a sample of learner assessments to confirm accuracy, consistency, and compliance with QualCert and regulatory standards. - Centre Compliance Audits:
EQAs examine centre procedures, assessor qualifications, assessment environments, and record-keeping to ensure full adherence to quality assurance policies. - Quality and Standards Validation:
EQAs verify that assessment decisions are fair, valid, reliable, and aligned with national and international benchmarks. - Final Approval:
Once the EQA is satisfied that all quality standards have been met, the centre’s results are approved, and QualCert officially releases the certification to the learner.
QualCert delivers all qualifications exclusively through its global network of officially approved training centres.
For registration, guidance, or programme details, please contact your nearest approved training centre.