AVERT certification is valid for two years. We recommend training staff annually or every two years and maintaining a workplace safety program to protect against harm or violence as required by OSHA [section 32.0.2(1)]. Clear policies and procedures should be reviewed and updated annually.

The AVERT course is delivered in a “blended” training format. This means students will first receive online training introducing them to the subject and preparing them for the instructor-led session.

The instructor-led session lasts approximately three hours and includes hands-on training, realistic drills, and education with encouraging tips and feedback. Class sizes are limited to 15 people or less per instructor. All participants have an opportunity to practice and gain the confidence to respond appropriately if an active violence or life-threatening situation arises.

Once taught only to industry professionals, the content in AVERT has been specifically adapted for the general public by medical and law enforcement experts. Unlike other training programs that focus solely on Run, Hide, Fight techniques, AVERT uses a dynamic method to teach situational awareness, how to react during a violent situation, and how to protect yourself and others. AVERT also emphasizes how to respond to stop the bleed of severe injuries that are often a result of these occurrences.

Authorized AVERT instructors use orange replica weapons to discuss the types of weapons most commonly used in violent situations. The replicas are also used to demonstrate how to disarm an attacker if other alternatives, such as evading and escaping, are not possible.

AVERT teaches topics from both active shooter response and emergency bleeding control training. By combining these topics into one dynamic hands-on course, AVERT covers a wide range of what you need to know to react during a life-threatening situation.