ERCA Rescuer
Instructor Training Courses
Who is this course for?
The ERCA Rescuer qualification builds on the skills trained as part of instructor awards to enable the holder of the qualification to rescue users and employees from a ropes course. The rescues trained as part of the training course shall be appropriate to normal daily operations at the venue. Candidates must hold an ERCA instructor qualification in their respective field (either adventure parks, traditional ropes courses or specific elements) before they can attend a rescue training course.
From 2026; the new ERCA Rescuer qualification has replaced the previous award title of ‘Generic Rescuer’ to allow candidates to be awarded based on the level of training completed. Candidates or operators booking training courses can therefore select the training modules relevant to their own needs.
The scope for rescues for the rescuer award is limited to applications in connection with the user and individual safety systems in place at the training venue.
The ERCA Rescuer training course is delivered over various modules; thus allowing this training course to be tailored to the needs of operators and candidates. The training consists of a theory/core module and specific/practical modules (of which at least one practical module must be completed). The rescue methods and equipment used will be noted on the training certificates.
Duration
1 to 3.5 days, including core module and assessment
Location
Typically client venue or
Technical Outdoor Solutions Training Centre Penrith
Certification
ERCA Certificate
Award titles can be issued for each of the following modules as trained:
Core Module - covers theoretical topics relevant to work at height and rescue. This module is integrated into our rescue courses and is compulsory in order to achieve an ERCA Rescuer qualification.
ERCA Rescuer for Passive Rescues - a passive rescue (unaccompanied rescue) is a method where a casualty is lowered to the ground using a single or twin rope system. The rescuer does not accompany the casualty to the ground and remains on the structure/ropes course and manages the lowering of the casualty.
ERCA Rescuer for Active Rescues - an active rescue (accompanied rescue) is a method where a rescuer uses rope-based systems and transfers the casualty to the rescuers system before taking them to the ground. The casualty is accompanied by the rescuer.
ERCA Rescuer for Specific Rescues - specific and adapted rescue techniques where a bespoke or tailored solution is required to conduct a rescue from a particular adventure installation or site.
e.g. lowering a 2nd rescuer to complete a rescue form a Powerfan.
Minimum duration of the training course
The total duration of the training course is the sum of the core module, the relevant specific modules (as listed above) and assessments.
ERCA
Core Module
up to 3 hours
ERCA Rescue
for Passive Rescues
from 1 to 1.5 days
ERCA Rescuer
for Active Rescues
from 1 to 2 days
ERCA Rescuer
for Specific Rescues
from 1 to 1.5 days
Pre-requisites for this training course
- Minimum age: 18 years old
- Hold an in-date First Aid certificate
- Hold a current ERCA instructor award
What to Expect
There will be both practical and theory sessions to enable the group to cover the entire syllabus.
Trainee Reviews
The Trainer has outstanding knowledge on all aspects of ropes courses, PPE inspections, law and regulations. I feel much more prepared as a Ropes Course Manager.
Training Course Images
