OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualifications
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualifications is a specialized programme designed to prepare learners with the essential skills and knowledge required to perform lifeguarding duties in open water environments such as lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. This diploma emphasizes practical training, situational awareness, and confidence-building, ensuring participants are equipped to respond effectively to emergencies in challenging aquatic conditions. Over thirty hours of structured study, learners will gain a strong foundation in open water safety, rescue techniques, and international lifeguard standards.
Learners will engage in scenario-based training that replicates real-life emergencies, helping them practice decision-making and problem-solving under pressure. The programme also highlights the importance of teamwork, communication with emergency services, and adapting rescue techniques to unpredictable water environments. By combining classroom instruction with practical demonstrations, participants develop the ability to remain calm and effective in urgent situations where lives are at risk.
This diploma is suitable for individuals seeking to work in aquatic safety roles across international contexts, including lifeguards at beaches, lakes, rivers, and outdoor recreational facilities. It is designed to be accessible to learners with varying levels of prior experience, ensuring that everyone leaves with the competence to provide safe and effective lifeguarding services. By the end of the programme, participants will have developed the technical skills, situational awareness, and leadership qualities needed to respond responsibly to emergencies, making them valuable contributors to safer aquatic environments worldwide.
Course Overview
Awarding Body
OSHAA
Duration
30-Hours
Study Mood
Online
Assessment
Assignments Based
Course Study Units
- Introduction to Open Water Lifeguard Qualifications and Safety Standards (2 Hours)
- Roles, Responsibilities, and Professional Conduct of an Open Water Lifeguard (3 Hours)
- Open Water Safety Operations, Hazard Identification, and Risk Management (4 Hours)
- Environmental Awareness: Currents, Depth Variations, and Weather Conditions (4 Hours)
- Surveillance Techniques and Public Safety Management in Open Water Settings (3 Hours)
- Open Water Rescue Skills and Specialist Equipment Use (4 Hours)
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid, and Casualty Care for Open Water Environments (5 Hours)
- Emergency Response Procedures and Incident Management in Open Water Areas (3 Hours)
- Communication Skills, Team Coordination, and Public Interaction (2 Hours)
Entry Requirements
Who Can Enroll
This course is designed for individuals who want to strengthen their ability to respond to emergencies in open water environments.
- Aspiring lifeguards for beaches, lakes, and rivers
- Resort and outdoor recreation staff
- Sports and adventure tourism professionals
- Safety officers in aquatic facilities
- Community volunteers in water safety programmes
- Emergency response and rescue team members
Course Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Open Water Lifeguard Qualifications and Safety Standards (2 Hours)
- Understand the scope and objectives of the Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) qualification
- Recognise national and international safety standards for open-water lifeguarding
- Identify the core competencies required for effective open-water safety management
Roles, Responsibilities, and Professional Conduct of an Open Water Lifeguard (3 Hours)
- Define the primary duties and expectations of an open-water lifeguard
- Apply professional behaviour and ethical practices in open-water environments
- Demonstrate awareness of accountability and discipline in safety-critical roles
Open Water Safety Operations, Hazard Identification, and Risk Management (4 Hours)
- Conduct operational safety checks in open-water environments
- Identify hazards such as submerged objects, strong currents, and changing depths
- Implement risk management strategies to minimise potential incidents
Environmental Awareness: Currents, Depth Variations, and Weather Conditions (4 Hours)
- Interpret water movement patterns, including tidal and current flows
- Assess the impact of depth variations on swimmer safety
- Monitor and respond to weather conditions affecting open-water safety
Surveillance Techniques and Public Safety Management in Open Water Settings (3 Hours)
- Apply effective observation and scanning techniques across wide open-water areas
- Detect early signs of potential incidents and emerging hazards
- Manage public safety through proactive supervision and engagement
Open Water Rescue Skills and Specialist Equipment Use (4 Hours)
- Perform a range of open-water rescue techniques suited to varying conditions
- Operate rescue equipment such as boards, buoys, and throw lines effectively
- Safely recover and assist casualties from challenging environments
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid, and Casualty Care for Open Water Environments (5 Hours)
- Perform CPR for adults, children, and infants in line with current guidelines
- Deliver first aid for injuries and conditions common in open-water settings
- Provide effective casualty care until advanced medical assistance arrives
Emergency Response Procedures and Incident Management in Open Water Areas (3 Hours)
- Activate and follow emergency action plans for open-water incidents
- Coordinate rescue operations during multiple-casualty or complex scenarios
- Complete accurate and detailed post-incident documentation
Communication Skills, Team Coordination, and Public Interaction (2 Hours)
- Communicate clearly and confidently during high-pressure situations
- Work collaboratively with fellow lifeguards and emergency services
- Interact with the public in a professional, calm, and reassuring manner
