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SISCAQU020 – Perform Water Rescues

Rescue Operations

Develop the judgement, technique and physical skills to respond to aquatic emergencies and perform effective water rescues across built and natural venues.

Course Overview

This unit is for any worker who may be required to complete water rescues, including pool lifeguards, swim teachers, aqua exercise instructors, outdoor recreation leaders and those supervising water-based activities. It develops the ability to assess rescue situations, determine appropriate rescue actions, and use a range of equipment and techniques to provide prompt and effective responses. The unit applies to commercial, not-for-profit, community and government organisations operating indoor or outdoor aquatic venues. This unit supersedes SISCAQU002 – Perform Basic Water Rescues.

Key Details

  • Identify active and passive signs of a person experiencing difficulty in the water
  • Assess rescue situations and determine the appropriate rescue action
  • Apply non-swimming and swimming rescue techniques including reach, throw and tow methods
  • Manage hazards and risks to self and the person being rescued during water rescue operations
  • Complete incident reports and follow organisational emergency response procedures

Units of Competency / Course Content

  • SISCAQU020 – Perform water rescues

Who This Course is For

This course is suitable for pool lifeguards, swim teachers, aqua exercise instructors, outdoor recreation leaders and any worker who may be required to respond to aquatic emergencies. It is also relevant to those supervising activities near water including paddle boarding, rafting, fishing and lake or dam-based recreation.

Course Details

Delivery ModeFace to face
National RecognisedYes
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Course Information

No formal prerequisite units required
Participants must have proficient swimming skills including the ability to perform survival strokes such as lifesaving backstroke and sidestroke
Must be physically capable of meeting the practical demands of the course
Valid government-issued photo ID required
Online pre-course module must be completed in full prior to attending the practical session

Written exam consisting of multiple choice and short answer questions
Practical assessment: perform two non-swim rescues (reach and throw)
Practical assessment: complete a 10-metre swim followed by a non-contact tow of at least 10 metres, removing the person from the water unassisted
Practical assessment: complete a 10-metre swim followed by a contact tow of at least 10 metres, removing the person from the water with one other person
Completion of an Incident Report form

On successful completion, participants will be issued a Statement of Attainment for SISCAQU020 by Health Security Education (RTO 40907) and a valid USI is required prior to certification issue. Industry recommendation is to renew this certification annually.

Course fees include training, assessment and (where applicable) issuance of certification for participants who successfully meet competency requirements.
Course fees may not include personal PPE, travel, onsite delivery travel costs, replacement certificates, or additional resources unless stated.

Funding and subsidies: Where applicable, funding or subsidies may be available for eligible participants.
Payment terms: Payment is required prior to course commencement unless otherwise arranged.
Refunds and withdrawals: Refunds are managed in accordance with Health Security Education’s Fees and Refunds Policy. Written notice is required to withdraw.

Trainer support is available throughout the course. Language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) support and wellbeing support are available on request. Health Security Education provides a safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment.
Participants must follow trainer instructions and use equipment safely. Reasonable adjustment is available where appropriate.
USI: A valid Unique Student Identifier (USI) is required prior to the issuance of nationally recognised certification.
Policies and processes (including Complaints & Appeals) are available via the Student Handbook.

Credit Transfer: Available for equivalent completed units where a valid and current Statement of Attainment is provided.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): May be available for learners who can provide evidence of current competence.
Pathways: This unit may support entry into further training pathways in health, community services, emergency response, workplace safety, or related outcomes, depending on learner goals and packaging rules.