The Level 3 Certificate in Emergency Response Ambulance Driving (CERAD) is set to improve the capabilities of ambulance drivers across the country. This nationally recognized qualification has been developed to equip learners with essential skills for operating ambulance vehicles in both routine and emergency situations.
The CERAD program is a comprehensive 4 week course designed for current and aspiring ambulance support workers, associate ambulance practitioners, HCPC registered paramedics, and equivalent qualifications.
It aims to provide thorough training in preparing, driving, and manoeuvring ambulance vehicles under various conditions, including emergency (blue light) situations.
Key Components of the CERAD Program
- Advanced driving techniques for emergency response situations
- Vehicle preparation and safety checks
- Understanding of relevant legislation, regulations, policies, and procedures
- Human factors and situational awareness
- High-speed driving in compliance with road traffic regulations
Training Vehicle Types
The course incorporates a variety of operational vehicle types to enhance the overall delivery and individual experience:
- B and C1 Category Emergency Response Ambulance Vehicles
- B Category Rapid Response Vehicles
Training courses may also be customised to your individual service vehicle types.
Course Structure
The CERAD qualification consists of three mandatory units, totalling 150 hours of training.
Learners will undertake both theory and practical sessions, gaining knowledge and skills to drive ambulances routinely and respond to incidents in various environments under emergency and non-emergency conditions.
Learners will spend the first week getting to grips with the vehicle, its controls, and learning the system of car control. The second week learners will begin to increase speed where appropriate. Weeks 3-4 learners will begin response driving and refine their skills, preparing for the final independent assessment on the last day of the course.
Certification and Recognition
Upon successful completion of the course and all associated portfolio work, delegates will receive an accredited certificate issued by FutureQuals, which is the preferred qualification within the NHS Ambulance Services.
Importance and Future Implications
The introduction of CERAD underscores the ongoing commitment to improving standards within the ambulance service and ensuring the safety of both patients and staff during emergency transport. As emergency response times continue to be a critical factor in patient outcomes, this training could prove invaluable in saving lives.
With the implementation of Section 19 of the Road Safety Act 2006 on the horizon, CERAD Driver training will become a legal requirement. Organizations are encouraged to stay ahead of regulatory changes by investing in this crucial training for their personnel.
For more information on CERAD training packages and course availability, interested parties should contact the CIPHER Medical Driver Training Team driving@ciphermedical.com or book online at CIPHER Driver Training
