Award Structure of Water Safety Ireland Classes
Swim Awards (since 2014 there are 5 Seal & 5 Marlin awards)
The corresponding new award for the old swim award is as follows:
- Splash = Seal 1
- Swim 1 = Seal 2
- Swim 2 = Marlin 6
- Swim 3 = Marlin 7/8 (8-10m f/c, b/c, br/st...)
- Swim 4 = Marlin 9 (15m f/c, b/c, br/st; tread water)
- Swim 5 = Marlin 10 (20m f/c, b/c, br/st; rescue stroke, surface dive)
Graded tests for beginners with emphasis on personal safety.
Safety Awards (1-4)
Graded tests to improve the introductory aspect of simple, non contact rescue.
Safety 4 is required to advance to Rescue 1 & Survival 1
Endurance / Survival Awards (1,2)
Graded swim tests with the emphasis on self-rescue and physical fitness.
900/1,100m swims. Needed for Rescue 1/2
Rescue Awards (1-4)
Graded tests of the four components necessary for successful rescues - skill, knowledge, judgement, and fitness.
Candidates must be 12 years to do Rescue 1 & hold a Safety 4 and Survival/Endurance 1 Award
Candidates must be 13 to do Rescue 2 and hold Rescue 1 and Survival2/Endurance 2 award
Basic Life Support Awards (1-3)
Tests of Basic Life Support knowledge and of vital follow up procedures.
BLS 1 is examined with Safety 4
BLS 2 is examined with Rescue 1 & 2
BLS 3 is examined with Rescue 3 & 4
Specialist Awards
Special category tests for those wishing to pursue a particular field of activity.
- Pool Lifeguard - must be 16 years and have at least Rescue 2
- Beach Lifeguard - must be 16 years and have at least Rescue 2 & BLS 2
- Assistant Instructor - must be 17 years & have Rescue 2
- Instructor
- Examiner
- Competition Referee
- Beach Risk Assessor
- Tutor/provider of specialist awards
