Immediate Response Emergency Care IREC® (RQF)
This qualification was developed in direct response to the findings of the Manchester Arena Inquiry, highlighting the critical importance of the three Ps of emergency care: Preserve life, Prevent deterioration, and Promote recovery.
Designed for those working — or preparing to work — in the events and security sectors, this qualification supports safe event delivery and effective on‑scene emergency response. It meets the staffing recommendations set out in the Purple Guide for Health, Safety and Welfare at Outdoor Events, and aligns with the standards agreed by the First Aid Awarding Organisation Forum (FAAOF) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for first aid qualifications.
This qualification is recognised as Category D on the Faculty of Pre‑Hospital Care (FPHC) PHEM Skills Framework, demonstrating its relevance for responders operating in dynamic, time‑critical environments.
This qualification is not a licence to practise. Any interventions performed as part of your role must be in line with your own/organisational scope of practice and agreed ways of working.
WHAT
This modern, fit-for-purpose qualification is delivered via a blended learning route. Learners complete a range of knowledge-based online learning modules and assessments before attending four days of face-to-face practical training with our clinical trainers. The programme concludes with final practical and theory-based assessments.
The online learning element requires approximately 14 hours of learner input and can be completed on any smart device—including phone, tablet, laptop, or PC—at the learner’s own pace and over multiple sittings.
All online learning must be completed prior to attending the face-to-face training. Learners are required to bring their online certificate of completion and assessment results with them on Day One of the practical course.
Course Components
Throughout the programme, learners will cover the following components:
Component One – The Role and Responsibilities of an Immediate Responder
Component Two – Patient Assessment
Component Three – Immediate Response to Life-Threatening Emergencies
Component Four – Immediate Response to Illnesses and Medical Conditions
Component Five – Immediate Response to Injuries and Major Trauma
The components above are delivered across days one to three, with our clinical trainers continually checking your understanding of the roles and responsibities of the IREC Responder.
🧭 Day Four: Revision & Assessment
Day four is dedicated to consolidation and assessment. Learners will:
- Review their notes, workbooks, and key learning points
- Practise practical skills with trainer support
- Prepare for the final assessment
You will then complete a series of unassisted practical scenarios, each involving live casualty actors, where you will be required to demonstrate safe, effective immediate care.
After lunch, learners will sit their externally‑invigilated online exam. The outcome of the qualification is Pass or Fail.
WHO
- Security operatives (The IREC qualification is accepted by the SIA)
- Prison staff
- High-risk workplaces where a higher level of first aid is required
- Fire & Rescue services
- Private Ambulance Services
- Firearms officers
- Offshore workers
- Wind turbine workers
- Coastguards
- First Aid instructors who want to increase their knowledge and learn more advanced techniques
- Members of the public who want to learn more about how to deal with an emergency
- Individuals who would like to gain a qualification that they can use to support their progression onto a range of health-related qualifications, including the Level 3 Award for Ambulance Service First Responders
WHERE
Learners can enrol onto any of our open course dates listed under the Booking tab, with courses running monthly.
Organisations may also book our trainers to deliver this qualification directly to your team, on dates and times that suits them, at your own venue.
COST
Individuals joining an open course will be charged £575 + VAT. Organisations can book our trainers to deliver this qualification to up to six delegates at your UK venue for £3,500 + VAT.
BOOKING
Make a booking request
Please give us an overview about what you would like to book using the form below, and one of our team will be in touch shortly.