Incidents, Breakdowns, Emergency Response and First Aid
What the exam tests
This domain tests scene safety, warning other traffic, emergency calls, fire and spill response, and basic first aid. The priority order is always protect yourself and the scene before assisting.
Core rules
- Stop, secure the vehicle, switch on hazard lights and place warning triangles at the required distance. Typical guidance is 50-150 m, further on high-speed roads and before a blind crest or curve.
- Wear a high-visibility vest and keep clear of live traffic. Do not stand between vehicles or behind the trailer.
- Call emergency services with location, direction, number of casualties, hazards and cargo details.
- Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire or traffic. Control severe bleeding with direct pressure; check airway and breathing; start CPR if trained and the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally.
- For a fire, raise the alarm, evacuate upwind and use the correct extinguisher only if safe. Never use water on a fuel or electrical fire.
- For a fuel or chemical spill, stop the source if safe, contain the spread, keep ignition sources away and report the hazard.
- Exchange details and report the incident as required; do not admit fault at the scene.
Worked example
A truck breaks down on the shoulder of a dark highway. Reasoning: the first danger is being struck by traffic. The driver switches on hazards, puts on a hi-vis vest, places triangles well behind the vehicle, keeps passengers away from the traffic side, calls for assistance and stays in a safe position. The wheels are chocked before any repair work.
Traps
- Standing between the truck and oncoming traffic.
- Moving an injured person who may have spinal injuries.
- Using water on a fuel fire.
- Forgetting to chock wheels before working under a vehicle.