About the Emergency Rescue Award
Achieving the RLSS Swimming Pool Emergency Rescue Award is a great way to gain a recognised lifesaving qualification while building practical rescue, first aid, CPR, and AED skills. This award develops confidence, awareness, and the ability to respond effectively to real emergencies in aquatic environments. It is ideal for anyone who wants essential lifesaving knowledge, whether for personal development, workplace safety, or progression towards full lifeguard qualifications.
📍 Courses Available
RLSS Emergency Rescue Award courses are delivered in Dublin and nationwide across Ireland, combining theory sessions with hands-on practical training in rescue techniques, casualty care, and emergency response scenarios. The programme is suitable for beginners, students, teachers, coaches, or anyone looking to gain a respected lifesaving award that supports safety in and around water.
Perfect for Hotel Leisure Clubs & Spa’s
Dublin & Nationwide Ireland
What is the Swimming Pool Emergency Rescue Award?
The Swimming Pool Emergency Rescue Award is designed for individuals who have a responsibility to respond to a swimming pool in the event of an emergency, by performing a rescue, or assisting a lifeguard team.
It is not intended to replace a lifeguard qualification, such as the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ). The NPLQ includes more detailed training and content to prepare someone to supervise a swimming pool directly.
For swimming pools that require direct supervision, it is recommended the RLSS UK NPLQ is used. More details can be found here.
Who Can Complete ER-Pool Training?
Who Can Complete ER-Pool Training?
Any staff employed at the venue, e.g.,
- Receptionists.
- Spa hosts.
- Chefs.
- Waiting staff.
- Housekeeping.
- Maintenance staff.
- Duty Managers.
- Gym staff.
Pre-Requisites
Pre-Requisites
- Be able to swim on front and back.
- Be able to surface dive to the deepest part of the pool and climb out without help and without using steps or ladders (where venue design permits).
- Be ages 16 or older at the beginning of the course.
What Does The Course Involve?
The Award is 12 hours in duration and deliverable within two days.
Topics covered during the course include;
- Section One – The Emergency Rescuers Role, Pool Safety Operating Procedures and Safety Information
- Section Two – Responding to an Emergency and the Emergency Action Plan
- Section Three – CPR, First Aid and AED
The SPERA qualification is valid for two years following successful completion.
Course Cost / Bookings
Course Cost / Bookings
To enquire about the course cost and how to book, please email us at info@swim21training.com. Delivery of our courses can be a combination of online / in person. We can bring a trainer to you and deliver our courses at your facility.
Is this the same as a lifeguard qualification?
No. This is not a full lifeguard qualification. It is a safety and rescue award for staff who need emergency response skills but are not employed as lifeguards.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
There is no advanced swimming as part of this course, however you must be competent in the water and able to pick a manikin from the pool floor.
How long is the qualification valid for?
The qualification is valid for 2 years, we will get in touch 6 months prior to chat you through renewal options.
Can employers book a private course?
Yes employers can book the RLSS SPERA course as a private course for their team, we recommend this as we can chat through site specific training too!
More Information on this Qualification
Check out the RLSS website by clicking on learn more.