First Aid Training: An Asset for Security Officers - Redmark Security

A security officer will come across many different situations in his or her day-to-day activities on the job site. At times there could be a medical emergency and the guard needs to do their best to help until paramedics or Fire /Rescue can arrive. This is where First Aid training becomes an asset.

No matter what level of first aid training an officer Receives it can be a vital help in saving lives or at the very least giving emergency personnel a fighting chance to save someone’s life. Sometimes small actions can lead to big results and buy time in medical emergencies.

So, what kind of training can a security officer receive? Generally, they would either be trained to for OFA1 (Occupational First Aid Level 1) or OFA2 (Occupational First Air Level 2). OFA2 being more comprehensive and taking 40 hours to complete OFA1 is generally a one-day course of 8 hours which gives more base level skills for first aid. First Aid needs to be re- certified every three years.

OFA1 training teaches many valuable skills. Firstly, what you need inside a basic level one first aid kit to perform basic duties. Knowing what equipment, you need and making sure this is kept up to date is very important. Students are taught about the human body and how it works, how to conduct a scene survey, assess responsiveness and conduct a primary survey which includes airway assessment, breathing check and Circulation assessment.

Other skills taught include treating small wounds and burns. keeping airways clear, how to assist a choking victim. AED (automated external defibrillator) use is also taught as well as how to recognize shock in a patient. Treating major bleeds and how to recognize a stroke are also covered in the training. While a lot of these duties or action most likely would fall to the OFA2 trained officer (If there is one available) it is necessary to learn these skills to be ready if they ae needed. You may be alone waiting for emergency personnel.

Being that this is a one-day course it is more of a brief overview of skills needed and is not as in depth. OFA2 goes into much more depth as to how to deal with all these medical issues. Lots of time spent on treating wounds, bleeds, heart attacks, shock, broken bones, infection and any other medical emergencies that can be presented during the course of a security officer’s shift. This training also includes a written and practical test conducted under WorkSafe BC supervision.

This training gives another piece of the puzzle in doing their best job and keep people and properties safe. This also takes some stress off of emergency workers since they are not arriving to a chaotic situation, they have some base level treatment already provided and can take over from there.

RedMark Security lead the industry in safety and having first aid trained officers is a large part of this. This is another part of the puzzle in providing comprehensive protection for property and staff on site. Clients can have faith that the best possible care is given, and security officers are prepared to react in any situation.