What Is the Difference Between PSC1 and SST?

First aid training is crucial, but what is the difference between PSC1 and SST, and more importantly, which one should you choose? Discover the specifics of each to make the right choice according to your personal or professional needs.

What Is SST Training?

Workplace First Aid (SST) training is an essential course in the professional setting. Its objective is to teach employees first aid techniques so they can respond effectively in the event of a workplace accident. This training helps prevent and limit the consequences of occupational accidents.

The initial SST training lasts a minimum of 14 hours (i.e., 2 days) and takes place in person. It concludes with a practical assessment which, if passed, results in an official certification recognized by the French government. This certification is valid for 24 months. To keep it current, employees must undergo a skills update training (MAC SST) of 7 hours every two years.

An SST-certified employee is able to identify a hazard, assist a victim, and take the initial measures while waiting for emergency services to arrive. This contributes to strengthening safety within the company and limiting occupational risks.

What Is PSC1 Training?

Prevention and Civic First Aid Level 1 (PSC1) training is the basic first aid course for the general public. It provides the reflexes and skills needed to respond in common emergency situations, such as fainting, cardiac arrest, burns, or road accidents.

Lasting 7 hours, PSC1 training is accessible to anyone over 10 years old (with parental authorization for minors). Upon completion, a skills certificate is issued to participants, recognized by the French government in accordance with the decree of November 16, 2011. Although this certification has no official expiration date, it is recommended to renew it every 3 years to incorporate the latest developments in rescue techniques.

Main Differences Between PSC1 and SST

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Are the Two Certifications Equivalent?

SST and PSC1 training are both recognized by the French government, but they are not equivalent.

An employee holding SST certification is automatically considered a PSC1 holder.

Conversely, a person holding PSC1 must complete an additional 4-hour training to obtain SST equivalence and pass the required certification exams.

The choice between the two depends on the employee's or company's needs:

For general training accessible to all, PSC1 training is ideal.

• For workplace training focused on risk prevention and workplace accident management, SST training is more suitable.

In all cases, these certifications are valuable assets for fostering a safer environment, both in the workplace and in everyday life.

Employer Obligations Regarding First Aid Training In France, legislation requires employers to ensure the safety and health of their employees. According to Article R4224-15 of the French Labor Code, it is mandatory to have at least one employee trained in first aid (SST) in each workshop where hazardous work is carried out, as well as on all construction sites employing 20 or more people for more than 15 days. This obligation aims to ensure that rapid intervention can be carried out in the event of an accident or illness in the workplace.

SST training is therefore a key element in meeting regulatory safety requirements. Employers also have the obligation to keep trained employees' skills up to date, via the MAC SST training every two years. By integrating SSTs within the team, the company demonstrates not only its compliance with the law, but also contributes to a culture of risk prevention and employee protection.

SST Training in Virtual Reality with IRWINO Since 2015, IRWINO has been innovating by offering professional virtual reality training. Our 360° video SST VR pedagogical module revolutionizes Workplace First Aid training, making it more interactive and engaging.

For 4 to 5 minutes, your trainees are immersed in simulated 360° accident situations. This immersion enables a realistic and interactive assessment of your employees' analytical abilities and reflexes. This VR 360° format integrates perfectly into the 14 hours of SST training or the 7 hours of MAC SST refresher course, while offering enhanced realism through scenarios featuring real people. Furthermore, these scenarios comply with INRS standards.

For more information about our SST VR solution, visit our dedicated page!

PSC1 vs SST: Which First Aid Training Should You Choose?

The choice between PSC1 and SST depends on your context and objectives:

For personal training: PSC1 is ideal for acquiring the basics of first aid in a personal or community setting.

• In a professional context: SST is more suitable, as it incorporates risk prevention specific to the company and meets legal workplace safety obligations.

Whatever your decision, these certifications are essential for creating a safer environment, whether at work or in everyday life. Do not hesitate to get trained and regularly renew your skills to stay effective in case of emergency.

Would you like to learn more about our immersive training modules dedicated to risk prevention?