Yes. Queensland crowd controllers must maintain current first aid and CPR competencies as part of their ongoing training requirements. First aid is generally refreshed every three years, while HLTAID009 Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is refreshed annually, consistent with Australian Resuscitation Council guidance.

But I must admit, it is a pet hate of mine when security providers think they maintain first aid and CPR skills simply because they need them for work. First aid is one of those skills you hope you never need, but when you do, the person lying in front of you may not be a customer, client or member of the public. Over many years in the security industry, we have seen these skills used to help friends, work colleagues, family members and loved ones just as often – if not more often – than they are used professionally.

Crowd controllers certainly encounter situations where first aid may be required, particularly around licensed premises, events and other public places. However, the real value of knowing first aid and CPR extends well beyond your security licence. BARS Training Australia therefore encourages security providers to look at refresher training as more than another regulatory requirement that needs to be ticked off.

Maintaining these skills means that if somebody needs help – whether you are at work, at home or somewhere in the community – you have the knowledge, confidence and practical ability to step forward and potentially save a life.