OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Pool Extraction Board (PXB) – Advanced Life-Saving Skills
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Pool Extraction Board (PXB) is a specialised training programme designed to provide participants with the essential knowledge and practical skills required for the safe and effective use of pool extraction boards in aquatic environments. Delivered to high professional standards, this course prepares individuals to respond confidently to water-based emergencies while ensuring casualty safety, responder protection, and controlled rescue operations within swimming pools and aquatic facilities.
This programme combines focused theoretical learning with hands-on practical training to ensure real-world readiness. Participants gain in-depth understanding of correct extraction board handling, casualty stabilisation, positioning techniques, and coordinated rescue procedures. Key topics include water safety principles, risk assessment, teamwork during pool extractions, communication during emergencies, and proper inspection and maintenance of extraction equipment to ensure it remains ready for immediate use when required.
Strong emphasis is placed on safety procedures, recognised industry guidelines, and professional rescue protocols. Participants are trained to manage a range of emergency scenarios, including unconscious casualties, suspected spinal injuries, and time-critical extractions that demand calm, precise, and controlled responses. By completing the OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Pool Extraction Board (PXB), participants enhance their operational competence and confidence, demonstrating a strong commitment to maintaining high aquatic safety standards and contributing effectively to emergency response teams in aquatic environments.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Pool Extraction Board (PXB)
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Pool Extraction Board Operations (3 Hours)
- Understand the role and purpose of a pool extraction board in aquatic safety
- Identify scenarios requiring the use of a pool extraction board
- Recognise the responsibilities of participants in extraction operations
Principles of Aquatic Rescue and Safety Protocols (3 Hours)
- Apply fundamental water rescue principles in emergency situations
- Follow established safety protocols to minimise risks during rescues
- Demonstrate awareness of personal safety and casualty protection
Anatomy of the Pool Extraction Board: Components and Functions (3 Hours)
- Identify and describe the components of a pool extraction board
- Understand the functions of each part in the rescue process
- Inspect the board for readiness and operational safety
Risk Assessment and Emergency Preparedness in Aquatic Environments (4 Hours)
- Conduct a risk assessment specific to aquatic facilities
- Develop strategies for emergency preparedness and hazard prevention
- Implement control measures to minimise rescue-related risks
Casualty Assessment and Initial Response Techniques (3 Hours)
- Perform an initial casualty assessment in a water environment
- Identify signs of distress, injury, or spinal concerns
- Apply immediate response measures to stabilise the casualty
Safe Handling and Positioning of the Extraction Board (3 Hours)
- Safely handle and manoeuvre the board in and out of the water
- Position the board for optimal casualty transfer and security
- Minimise movement to reduce the risk of further injury
Spinal Injury Management During Water Extractions (4 Hours)
- Recognise symptoms of potential spinal injuries in aquatic incidents
- Apply correct spinal immobilisation techniques during rescue
- Coordinate rescue actions to protect spinal integrity
Coordinated Teamwork in Pool Rescue Operations (3 Hours)
- Work effectively within a rescue team to ensure smooth operations
- Communicate clearly and efficiently during extractions
- Assign and perform roles in a collaborative rescue effort
Maintenance, Inspection, and Storage of Extraction Boards (2 Hours)
- Conduct routine inspections to ensure equipment reliability
- Follow proper cleaning and maintenance procedures
- Store extraction boards to maintain longevity and readiness
Post-Rescue Care, Documentation, and Continuous Improvement (2 Hours)
- Provide appropriate post-rescue care to casualties
- Complete required incident documentation accurately
- Identify areas for improvement through rescue debriefs and reviews
- Equips participants with specialised skills in using pool extraction boards for effective water rescues
- Enhances understanding of aquatic safety protocols and emergency response measures
- Improves ability to assess risks and prepare for potential incidents in aquatic environments
- Builds competence in spinal injury management during water-based extractions
- Strengthens teamwork and communication skills essential for coordinated rescue operations
- Provides hands-on training in casualty handling, board positioning, and safe rescue techniques
- Ensures participants can maintain, inspect, and store equipment for optimal readiness
- Increases confidence in handling emergencies in pools and aquatic facilities
- Supports compliance with health, safety, and rescue standards in professional aquatic operations
- Contributes to professional development and career progression in lifeguarding, aquatic safety, and rescue services
- Participants working as lifeguards or aquatic safety personnel in pools and leisure facilities
- Participants involved in emergency response teams within aquatic environments
- Participants responsible for safety operations in swim schools, hotels, or recreational water facilities
- Participants seeking to enhance their rescue skills for professional or voluntary aquatic safety roles
- Participants aiming to comply with industry safety standards for water-based rescue operations
- Participants preparing for roles in advanced aquatic rescue and spinal injury management
- Participants working in health and safety management for sports and leisure centres
- Participants committed to continuous professional development in aquatic safety and rescue fields
