NRC security trainings

Training by aid workers, for aid workers

NRC has been helping aid workers to operate safely since 2007. Our full-time training unit is staffed by safety experts with extensive experience in the field. Our instructors deliver practical, scenario-based training worldwide, supported by other NRC professionals and a select network of specialist consultants.

Delivered in English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Pashto, Urdu and Norwegian, our programmes serve a global humanitarian community. Our certifications are widely recognised and trusted across the aid sector and beyond. Most of our courses are also available in Training of Trainers (ToT) formats to help organisations build sustainable internal capacity.

HEAT: Hostile Environment Awareness Training

NRC’s HEAT course is designed to build the resilience of aid workers to enable them to operate in situations of high and extreme risk.

Due to the high levels of stress – including trauma – among frontline aid workers, this course is preceded by a psychological pre-screening and, if necessary, follow-up consultations. This ensures that staff are not only prepared but also avoid possible (re-)traumatisation during the training.

HEIST: Hostile Environment Individual Security Training

HEIST is a three-day intensive training that provides hands-on experience across key humanitarian access and safety topics. Through practical exercises, participants develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to assess risks, make sound decisions, and respond effectively to real-time threats in complex settings.

The training can be extended to four days to include a dedicated field first aid component.

HEIST is also delivered as a comprehensive Training of Trainers (ToT) programme. The ToT format runs over ten days: five days of instructional content, one day of preparation, and four days of participant teach-back and facilitation practice.

We will deliver a four-day HEIST course in the Republic of Moldova from 21 to 24 April 2026, which includes a first aid component on 23 and 24 April. A second HEIST session will be delivered in September 2026.

Register for NRC HEIST Moldova.

Please note that a minimum number of participants is required to deliver this training.

First Aid Training

We offer two comprehensive first aid programmes: Basic First Aid and Field First Aid.

Basic First Aid training provides participants with the knowledge and skills to confidently perform essential first aid interventions. The course follows the DMARCH method and adheres to the standards of the Norwegian First Aid Council, ensuring a solid foundation in life-saving techniques.

Field First Aid training builds on the principles of Basic First Aid, exploring practical applications in realistic field scenarios. This advanced course introduces the Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) approach, preparing participants to respond effectively to injuries in high-risk and complex environments.

Please note that a minimum number of participants is required to deliver this training

Safe Driver Training (SDT): Training of Trainers

NRC takes road safety in the field very seriously. Drivers and vehicles are critical in enabling aid organisations to reach people, complete their missions and return safely, yet drivers are often overlooked for training. This programme is an eight-day practical course based on current international road safety standards.

We deliver a limited number of Training of Trainers courses every year, and humanitarian aid organisations are welcome to participate if places are available.

Please email heat@nrc.no for information.

Humanitarian Access Negotiation Training

NRC operates in areas with significant access challenges and has years of experience navigating such contexts. Our access negotiation training is now available for NRC staff, partners and other humanitarian aid organisations in Amman and Nairobi, as well as on request. It can be attended as a standalone two-day course or combined with a Training of Trainers element into a four-day course.

Dates, locations and registration information will be shared in due course.

Please note that a minimum number of participants is required to deliver this training.

Psychological First Aid Training

This short, low-threshold training provides a simple, practical approach to supporting people in the first days and weeks after a crisis. Just as traditional first aid treats physical injuries, psychological first aid helps with the emotional impact by restoring a sense of safety, calm, and human connection.

It is not therapy or counselling. Rather, it focuses on care, presence and practical support, helping people regain stability and reducing the risk of long-term distress. We deliver this training in two formats: a 3.5-hour online session or a 4-hour classroom session.

Please note that a minimum number of participants is required to deliver this training.