Elementary First Aid (EFA) Course: Essential Life-Saving Skills Every Seafarer Must Know

Nov

22

2025

Elementary First Aid (EFA) Course: Essential Life-Saving Skills Every Seafarer Must Know

The Elementary First Aid (EFA) Course is one of the foundational STCW safety courses required for every seafarer before joining a ship. Approved under STCW Code A-VI/1-3 and monitored by DG Shipping India, the EFA course equips seafarers with the skills to provide immediate medical assistance during shipboard emergencies. From treating minor injuries to stabilizing victims before professional medical help is available, EFA ensures that every crew member can respond confidently and correctly.

For many students searching terms like EFA course near me, Elementary First Aid course DG Shipping, or basic first aid training for seafarers, understanding the full structure, syllabus, and benefits of the course is important before enrolling. This blog provides a complete guide to the EFA course in India.

What Is the EFA Course?

The Elementary First Aid (EFA) course trains seafarers to handle medical emergencies on ships, offshore vessels, cruise liners, and other maritime environments. Ships operate far away from hospitals, making it crucial for crew members to know the essential steps to control bleeding, manage fractures, treat burns, administer CPR, and provide basic life support.

The EFA course forms the foundation for all advanced maritime medical training. Without completing EFA, candidates cannot progress to Proficiency in Medical First Aid (MFA) or Proficiency in Medical Care (MC).

Why Is EFA Mandatory for Seafarers?

Life at sea is unpredictable. Accidents can happen during cargo handling, engine room operations, mooring activities, galley work, or rough sea conditions. Delayed or incorrect response can turn a minor injury into a life-threatening situation.

The EFA course ensures that seafarers can:

Provide immediate first aid
Recognize emergency symptoms
Prevent conditions from worsening
Maintain a calm and systematic approach
Assist until the ship’s medical officer or doctor takes over

Every seafarer is legally required to complete EFA before joining a ship as per DG Shipping and STCW 2010 standards.

Who Should Take the EFA Course?

The EFA course is essential for:

GP Ratings
Deck Cadets
Engine Cadets
Trainee Marine Engineers
Cruise ship staff
Hotel and hospitality staff joining cruise liners
Anyone completing STCW Basic Safety Training

Searches like EFA course near me often come from beginners preparing for their first ship joining.

Course Duration and Format

The typical duration of the EFA course is 2 to 3 days depending on the institute.

The training includes:

Classroom theory on first aid procedures
Hands-on practice using manikins
Demonstrations by certified instructors
Assessment to receive the STCW certificate

DG Shipping mandates proper practical sessions and scenario-based learning during EFA.

EFA Course Syllabus – Complete Breakdown

The Elementary First Aid course covers all essential procedures required to respond to medical emergencies onboard ships.

1. Basic First Aid Principles

Understanding priorities of treatment
Assessing the accident scene
Protecting yourself and the casualty
Calling for help and emergency communication

2. CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS)

This is one of the most important practical components of the course.

Seafarers are trained in:

CPR for adults
Chest compressions and rescue breaths
Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
Responding to unconscious casualties
Clearing airway obstructions

3. Management of Bleeding and Wounds

Types of bleeding and their treatment
Applying pressure bandages
Controlling severe bleeding
Treating cuts, abrasions, and open wounds

4. Treating Burns and Scalds

Burn-related injuries are common onboard due to engine room heat, hot liquids, steam, and electrical faults.

The course covers:

First-degree, second-degree, and third-degree burns
Immediate first aid steps
Preventing shock
Precautions for chemical and electrical burns

5. Fractures, Sprains, and Muscle Injuries

Identifying fractures
Immobilizing the injured area
Applying slings and splints
Treating joint injuries and sprains

6. Medical Emergencies at Sea

The EFA course prepares seafarers to act quickly in situations such as:

Heart attack
Stroke
Choking
Asthma attack
Epileptic seizures
Fainting
Hypothermia

Early recognition and correct action can save a life in the middle of the ocean.

7. Transportation of Casualties

Safe lifting techniques
Using stretchers
Moving an unconscious casualty
Avoiding further injury during transfer

EFA Course Requirements and Eligibility

To enroll for the Elementary First Aid course, candidates must have:

Minimum age of 18 years
Valid medical fitness certificate as per DG Shipping rules
INDOS number (mandatory for certification)
Passport-size photographs and ID proof

Most seafarers who search Elementary First Aid course DG Shipping approved are preparing for the full STCW Basic Safety Training package.

Importance of EFA Course for Maritime Careers

1. Mandatory Before Joining Any Ship

Without an EFA certificate, no seafarer can board a merchant ship, cruise ship, offshore vessel, or yacht.

2. Builds Confidence During Emergencies

Candidates learn to take quick decisions and apply the correct techniques during high-pressure situations.

3. Required for Higher Medical Courses

EFA is the foundation for:

MFA (Medical First Aid)
MC (Medical Care)

4. Enhances Job Opportunities

Shipping companies prefer candidates with updated STCW certificates and strong emergency response skills.

EFA Certificate Validity

The EFA certificate is valid for five years. Seafarers must renew it through an STCW Refresher Course if required under company policies or during revalidation of their other courses.

Choosing the Best EFA Course Institute

When looking for an EFA course near me, candidates should check:

DG Shipping approval
Experienced and certified faculty
Quality of practical training
Availability of regular batches
Location and accessibility
Student support system

Institutes with modern manikins, proper medical kits, and real-time scenario training offer superior learning outcomes.

Why Choose Anvay Maritime Institute for EFA?

Anvay Maritime Institute offers DG Shipping–approved Elementary First Aid (EFA) training designed to meet global STCW standards.

Key features:

Certified and experienced instructors
Hands-on CPR and first aid practice
Updated training equipment
Student-friendly environment
Fast certification for ship joining
Regular batches for both freshers and experienced seafarers

Candidates searching for EFA course near me in Mumbai, EFA course Maharashtra, or DG Shipping first aid course often choose Anvay Maritime Institute due to its strong reputation, compliance, and placement-focused training culture.

Documents Required for Enrollment

To register for the EFA course, candidates must submit:

INDOS number
Passport
CDC (if applicable)
Passport-size photographs
Medical fitness certificate

Course Fees

The typical EFA course fees in India range between ₹4,000 to ₹8,000, depending on the institute. Fees may vary based on training equipment and facilities.

Conclusion

The Elementary First Aid (EFA) Course is a crucial part of a seafarer’s safety training and an essential requirement before joining any vessel. It equips candidates with critical life-saving skills to handle emergencies effectively until professional help is available. Completing the EFA course from a DG Shipping–approved institute ensures proper training, safer onboard working conditions, and better career growth in the maritime industry.