The SARTECH III level of certification is the beginning level for SAR personnel.  This level is recommended for any person who responds to and functions on SAR missions. Persons who obtain this certification are to function within the limits of the certification described in the NASAR standards for SARTECH III.  The NASAR course that teaches the knowledge to challenge the SARTECH III is Introduction to Search and Rescue.

 

 

The examination consists of a (75) seventy-five question written test covering the candidate's knowledge of search and rescue.  A passing grade is 70% or above. 

 

Certification Levels SARTECH III through SARTECH I/CREWLEADER are a series of written and practical examinations that test the levels of knowledge and practical skills of SAR personnel.  These examinations are based on the NASAR Standards for SARTECH.  The SARTECH standards were formulated by the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR) and recognized by many states and agencies.  They have also been submitted for reviewed to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and National Fire Protection Association for their consideration in their standards development.

 

The SARTECH program is an evaluation process not a learning process.  Candidates demonstrate basic SAR competency through written tests and practical skill demonstrations of search and rescue skills. 

 

Upon successful completion of the requirements, a certificate will be issued to the person by NASAR.  This certificate does not constitute a license to practice the skills taught in a training program or to practice the knowledge and performance skills that have been evaluated.  The certificate does signify that the person holding the certificate has met the requirements of an established standard of knowledge and/or performance skill on the date indicated on the certificate.

 

NASAR has developed three courses using the NASAR Standards for SARTECH.  These courses are Introduction to Search and Rescue, Fundamentals of Search and Rescue and Advanced Search and Rescue.  These courses are designed to teach the student the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the level of SARTECH certification that correspond to the course. Completion of these or any other NASAR sponsored courses are not required for the candidate to challenge any certification examination.  The candidates training may come from any available source the candidate chooses.

 

Candidates who successfully complete the evaluation process will receive a certificate and patch from NASAR signifying their certification level.  NASAR does not require a re-certification time period but leaves the decision to the organizations and agencies that use the SARTECH personnel