First Aid and CPR Training for Professional Drivers

Introduction

Relocating from Global to Romania as a professional driver is not only a career move, it is a chance to upskill, broaden your horizons across the European market, and improve your quality of life. Among the most valuable skills you can bring with you is the ability to save a life. First aid and CPR training for professional drivers is more than a compliance box to tick. It is practical, confidence-building training that can help you protect your passengers, fellow road users, colleagues, and yourself when every second counts.

This guide brings you a complete picture of how first aid and CPR training fits into the Romanian and EU professional driver landscape. You will learn why Romania is an excellent destination for transportation and logistics careers, how the job market works, what legal and certification steps you must take, and how first aid skills align with EU CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) requirements and employer expectations. Whether you plan to drive international routes, handle hazardous goods with ADR certification, or work in city delivery or passenger transport, the knowledge here will help you relocate, integrate, and thrive.

Why Romania?

Romania is an EU member with a fast-growing logistics and transportation sector. It occupies a strategic position on the EU map, linking Central and Eastern Europe with the Balkans, the Black Sea, and beyond. If you are moving from Global and want a strong employment market with competitive EU earnings and a lower cost of living, Romania is a compelling choice.

Key advantages for drivers:

EU membership and market access: With a Romanian employer, you can operate throughout the EU under EU regulations. Romania continues to expand motorway connections and trade corridors, including links to the Port of Constanta, the Danube corridor, and motorways such as A1, A2, and segments of A3.
Competitive pay with lower living costs: Salaries for international drivers are competitive while rents, utilities, and daily expenses remain lower than many Western EU countries. Your net earnings can stretch further without sacrificing quality of life.
High demand for skilled drivers: Logistics companies in Romania actively recruit professional drivers, especially with C, CE, and D categories and additional endorsements like ADR and digital tachograph experience.
Quality of life: Dynamic cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi offer modern amenities, growing expat communities, and access to nature. Healthcare access is improving, and emergency services are coordinated through the EU-wide 112 system.
Established first aid training network: Recognized providers such as the Romanian Red Cross and accredited training centers offer first aid, CPR, AED, and workplace-focused safety courses in multiple cities. This makes it easy to keep your life-saving skills current and aligned with EU best practices.

Job Market Overview

Professional drivers in Romania find work across several segments. The first aid and CPR training you undertake will be relevant to all of them.

International Trucking (Long Haul, C/CE)

Typical routes: Romania to Germany, Austria, Italy, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, and intra-Balkan routes. Some carriers operate UK and Scandinavia routes.
Employer examples: DB Schenker, DSV, KLG Europe, FM Logistic, International Alexander, Carrion Expedition, Dumagas, Aquila, and a range of Romanian-owned fleets.
Why first aid matters: Long hours, highway incidents, and varying road conditions mean drivers could be first on scene at an accident. Knowing CPR, bleeding control, and shock management is critical.

Regional Distribution and Domestic Freight

Typical routes: City-to-city deliveries, FMCG distribution, automotive parts, and retail logistics.
Employer examples: FAN Courier, Sameday, DHL, eMAG Logistics, and regional carriers.
Why first aid matters: Frequent urban driving and loading dock operations increase the risk of minor injuries, slips, and falls. Quick first aid can prevent complications.

Last-Mile and E-commerce Delivery (B/B+E, C1)

Urban van driving and parcel delivery, time-sensitive routes.
High contact with customers and pedestrians.
First aid relevance: Responding to choking, fainting, or cardiac events in public settings, plus handling heat or cold stress during extreme weather.

Passenger Transport (D, D1 - Buses and Coaches)

Municipal and intercity bus operators seek reliable drivers with strong customer-service skills.
Employer examples: STB (Bucharest), CTP (Cluj-Napoca), STPT (Timisoara), and private coach companies.
First aid relevance: Duty of care is central. If a passenger experiences a medical emergency, your actions in the first minutes can save a life.

ADR (Hazardous Goods) Transport

Specialization in transporting fuels, chemicals, or other regulated substances.
First aid relevance: Exposure injuries, chemical burns, inhalation incidents, and fire risks demand targeted first aid knowledge and scene safety skills.

Legal Requirements for Global Citizens

Your legal path depends on your citizenship.

For EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

No work permit or visa is required.
Register your residence in Romania and obtain a registration certificate.
Exchange or validate driver qualifications as needed. EU licenses and CPC are mutually recognized under EU rules.

For Non-EU Citizens (Global)

Employer-sponsored work permit: A Romanian employer applies to the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) for a work authorization (aviz de munca). Processing often takes 20-45 days but can vary.
Long-stay visa for employment (D/AM): After the work authorization is issued, apply for the D/AM visa at a Romanian embassy or consulate. Decision times vary (often 10-30 days). Bring your employment contract, proof of accommodation, and health insurance.
Single Permit (residence): After arrival, apply for a residence permit at IGI. This becomes your Single Permit for work and stay. You will be assigned a CNP (Personal Numeric Code) that you will use for taxes, healthcare, and banking.
Family reunification: Possible after certain conditions are met, typically after your residence is secured. Check IGI for the latest requirements.
Health insurance and taxes: Your employer registers you for social contributions. You will have access to public healthcare; many employers also offer private health plans.

Tip: Immigration rules and fees change over time. Always check the IGI official guidance and coordinate closely with your employer or a reputable immigration advisor. Build buffer time into your move plan.

Certification and License Recognition

Driving professionally in Romania within the EU framework requires aligning your licenses and qualifications.

Converting or Recognizing Your Driver License

EU license holders: Your EU C, CE, D categories are valid in Romania. If you take residence, you can exchange your license for a Romanian one, but it is not mandatory as long as it is valid and recognized.
Non-EU license holders: You can typically drive with your non-EU license for a limited time after entry (often up to 90 days), but for residence and professional work you generally must exchange your license or retest in Romania. Exchange without testing depends on reciprocity agreements between Romania and your home country. If exchange is not possible, you will need to pass theory and practical exams for the required categories.
Where to exchange: DRPCIV (Romania's driver licensing authority). Requirements often include a residence permit, medical certificate, photos, and your current license with a certified translation.

CPC - Certificate of Professional Competence

Mandatory for professional drivers in the EU. Romania issues and recognizes CPC under EU Directive 2003/59/EC.
Types: Initial qualification (CPI) and periodic training (CPC). Periodic CPC refresher training totals 35 hours every 5 years. First aid modules are commonly included in CPC courses.
Where to train: Accredited centers authorized by ARR (Autoritatea Rutiera Romana). Courses are available across major cities.

Digital Tachograph Training and Driver Card

EU rules: Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 and Regulation (EU) No 165/2014 govern driving times, rest periods, and tachograph use.
Training: Practical training is recommended on smart tachographs (Gen2) and logbook management. Many CPC providers integrate tachograph instruction.
Driver card: Issued in Romania through ARR. You will apply with your ID or residence permit, a photo, and pay a fee. Processing typically takes 1-3 weeks. Keep spare print rolls in the cab and know how to annotate manual entries.

ADR Certification (Hazardous Goods)

Why it matters: ADR jobs often pay more but require extra safety competence.
Courses: Basic ADR, plus specializations such as Tanks, Class 1 (explosives), and Class 7 (radioactive) if needed. Training ends with an examination. Certificate validity is 5 years with refresher training required for renewal.
First aid overlap: ADR courses include incident response and personal protection. Supplement this with first aid modules specific to chemical burns, inhalation, and decontamination basics.

First Aid and CPR Training - What to Expect

Even when not legally mandated as a standalone certificate, first aid and CPR are strongly recommended and often included in CPC. Employers favor candidates who hold current certificates. Typical elements include:

Core content: Scene safety, calling 112, primary survey (response, airway, breathing, circulation), recovery position, adult CPR, AED use, choking response, severe bleeding control, shock management, fractures and immobilization, burns, and medical emergencies (heart attack, stroke, seizure, diabetic events, asthma).
Duration: Basic courses often run 6-8 hours. Comprehensive workplace first aid may run 12-16 hours. CPR with AED refreshers can be 2-4 hours. Periodic refresh recommended every 1-2 years.
Providers: Romanian Red Cross chapters, accredited workplace safety providers, and CPC training centers that integrate CPR and first aid modules.
Certification: You receive a certificate of completion. For employers operating across the EU, ensure the content follows European Resuscitation Council (ERC) guidelines.

Salary and Benefits

Pay varies by route type, employer, and your endorsements. The ranges below are realistic for 2025, expressed in EUR and RON (1 EUR ~ 5 RON). Net totals assume common allowances and market practices; always confirm details in your contract.

International HGV (C/CE) drivers: 2,000 - 3,500 EUR net per month (10,000 - 17,500 RON). This often includes a base salary plus per diems for days spent abroad, which may be tax-advantaged within limits.
Domestic HGV drivers: 900 - 1,500 EUR net per month (4,500 - 7,500 RON), with potential overtime.
ADR specialists: 2,300 - 3,800 EUR net per month (11,500 - 19,000 RON), reflecting hazard premiums and specialized routes.
Bus and coach drivers: 900 - 1,400 EUR net per month (4,500 - 7,000 RON). Municipal roles may include stable schedules, uniform allowances, and pension contributions.
Delivery and last-mile drivers: 700 - 1,100 EUR net per month (3,500 - 5,500 RON), sometimes with performance bonuses.

Common benefits:

Per diems and travel allowances
Paid CPC periodic training, sometimes including first aid courses
Private medical insurance or clinic access
Accommodation during long rotations or support with housing for new hires
Safety gear and winter kit reimbursements

Tax note: Romania has a 10 percent flat income tax, with social contributions applicable to wages. Some allowances are tax-free within legal thresholds. Ask employers for a clear net pay breakdown.

Cost of Living in Romanian Cities

Romania offers good value for money. The following monthly figures are indicative for a single person.

Bucharest: Rent 400 - 800 EUR for a 1-bedroom apartment. Utilities 80 - 150 EUR. Public transport pass ~15 - 20 EUR. Groceries 200 - 300 EUR. Eating out 6 - 12 EUR per casual meal.
Cluj-Napoca: Rent 350 - 650 EUR. Utilities 70 - 140 EUR. Public transport pass ~12 - 18 EUR. Groceries 180 - 280 EUR.
Timisoara: Rent 300 - 550 EUR. Utilities 70 - 130 EUR. Public transport pass ~12 - 18 EUR. Groceries 170 - 260 EUR.
Iasi: Rent 300 - 500 EUR. Utilities 70 - 120 EUR. Public transport pass ~10 - 15 EUR. Groceries 160 - 250 EUR.

Other costs:

Fuel: 1.4 - 1.6 EUR per liter for diesel, varying by market conditions.
Mobile plan: 7 - 15 EUR per month for generous data packages.
Health: Public system access via contributions; private clinic visits 25 - 60 EUR depending on specialty.
Road charges: Romania requires a road vignette (rovinieta) for national roads. Additional tolls apply to certain bridges such as Fetesti-Cernavoda on A2 and Giurgiu-Ruse at the border.

Cultural Integration

Learning to navigate Romanian culture helps you work smoothly and build rapport with colleagues and clients.

Language basics: Romanian is a Romance language. Many logistics professionals speak English, but learning key phrases shows respect and opens doors. Start with greetings, numbers, directions, and safety language used at depots.
Workplace culture: Punctuality and reliability are appreciated. Safety and compliance are taken seriously, especially for CPC, tachograph rules, and ADR protocols. Keep communication clear and respectful.
Community: Expat groups in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi are active. Networking with other drivers helps you adapt to routes, fuel stops, and seasonal challenges.
Emergency number: Dial 112 anywhere in Romania and the EU for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
Good Samaritan ethos: Providing basic first aid in good faith to an injured person is encouraged. Follow training, ensure scene safety, and call 112.

First Aid and CPR: The Professional Driver Advantage

This section dives deeper into the first aid and CPR skills most relevant to drivers in Romania and the EU, including winter-specific and ADR-related considerations.

The Chain of Survival on the Road

Recognize: Identify emergencies quickly. Look for unresponsiveness, abnormal breathing, severe bleeding, or signs of stroke.
Call: Get help fast. Dial 112, provide location details (km markers, highway name, direction of travel), and describe hazards such as fuel spills.
Care: Deliver immediate aid within your skill level. Use gloves, ensure your safety first, and ask for an AED if nearby.
Handover: When EMS arrives, give a concise report on what happened, what you observed, and care given.

Adult CPR Essentials (ERC-aligned)

Check scene safety. Tap and shout to check responsiveness.
Send for help, call 112, and request an AED.
Open airway and check breathing for no more than 10 seconds.
If not breathing normally, start chest compressions: 100-120 per minute, depth 5-6 cm, full recoil, minimal interruptions.
Provide 30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths if trained and you have a barrier device. If not, perform hands-only CPR.
When AED arrives, switch it on, follow prompts, and deliver a shock if advised. Resume CPR immediately after each shock.

Choking Response

Adult conscious choking: Encourage coughing. If ineffective, deliver 5 back blows between shoulder blades, then 5 abdominal thrusts. Alternate until the airway clears or the person becomes unresponsive.
Unresponsive: Begin CPR. Look for an object in the mouth before breaths, remove visible obstructions only.

Severe Bleeding and Shock

Apply direct pressure with dressings or a clean cloth. Add more layers if soaked; do not remove the first layers.
Use a commercial tourniquet for life-threatening limb bleeding when direct pressure is insufficient. Note the application time.
Treat for shock: Lay the person flat, keep warm, and avoid food or drink. Monitor breathing and responsiveness.

Burns and Scalds

Cool the burn under cool running water for at least 10 minutes.
Remove jewelry and tight clothing not stuck to skin.
Cover loosely with a sterile, non-adherent dressing.
For chemical burns, brush off dry chemicals, irrigate with copious water, and protect yourself with gloves and eye protection.

Medical Emergencies

Heart attack: Chest pain or pressure, sweating, nausea. Call 112, keep the person at rest, consider aspirin if not allergic and advised by dispatch.
Stroke: Use FAST (Face droop, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 112). Record the time symptoms started.
Seizures: Protect from injury, do not restrain, do not place anything in the mouth. After seizure, recovery position and monitor breathing.
Diabetic emergencies: If conscious and able to swallow, give sugar or a sweet drink for suspected hypoglycemia.
Asthma: Help find and use an inhaler with a spacer if available. Keep calm and seated.

Winter Driving First Aid Considerations

Romania experiences severe winters in some regions. Drivers should prepare for:

Hypothermia: Shivering, confusion, slurred speech. Move to warmth, remove wet clothing, insulate with blankets, provide warm non-alcoholic drinks if fully conscious.
Frostbite: Numb, pale skin. Warm gradually using body heat or warm water. Do not rub or use direct heat.
Carbon monoxide risk: Never run the engine in enclosed spaces. Ventilate when using heaters.

ADR-Specific First Aid Practices

Personal safety first: For spills or leaks, keep upwind and uphill. Use PPE such as gloves, goggles, and masks as trained.
Inhalation exposure: Move to fresh air, loosen tight clothing, monitor breathing, and call 112. Inform dispatch about the UN number and hazard class.
Chemical burns: Irrigate with water for at least 15 minutes where safe to do so. Remove contaminated clothing.
Fire-related smoke: Treat for inhalation injury and monitor for breathing difficulties.

Your In-Cab First Aid and Safety Kit

Romanian law requires a basic first aid kit, reflective vest, warning triangles, and a fire extinguisher. For professional drivers, consider upgrading your kit:

DIN-standard car first aid kit or equivalent (bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, sterile dressings)
Two pairs of nitrile gloves, CPR face shield, and hand sanitizer
Trauma shears and a headlamp
Tourniquet and hemostatic gauze for severe bleeding
Emergency blanket and instant cold pack
Eye wash bottle, burn gel dressings
ADR drivers: Chemical absorbent pads, additional goggles, nitrile gloves C category, and a disposable mask rated for fumes where applicable
Winter add-ons: Thermal blanket, spare warm clothing, reflective jacket, snow shovel, ice scraper, and sand or grit

EU Regulations You Must Know

Romania enforces EU road transport laws, so understand the following:

EU driving time and rest (Reg. 561/2006): 9 hours driving per day (twice per week up to 10 hours). 56 hours max per week and 90 hours over two consecutive weeks. After 4.5 hours of driving, take at least a 45-minute break (can be split 15 + 30). Daily rest usually 11 hours, with permissible reductions. Weekly rest rules apply.
Tachograph (Reg. 165/2014): Use a calibrated digital tachograph and driver card. Keep paper rolls in the cab. Make manual entries when required and know how to document ferry or train crossings.
Working Time Directive: EU rules limit total working time, including driving and other tasks, protecting your rest and safety.
Romanian enforcement: ISCTR conducts roadside and depot inspections. Keep documents organized, including CPC proof, ADR certificates, vehicle documents, and rovinieta proof.
Alcohol and substances: Romania maintains zero tolerance for drink driving. Never consume alcohol or impairing substances while on duty or within the hours before a shift.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Moving from Global to Romania is smoother when you follow a clear plan.

1. Research and Shortlist Employers

Target sectors: international haulage, domestic distribution, passenger transport, ADR.
Compare: Pay structure (base vs per diem), rotation patterns (2-3 weeks out, 1 week home), fleet age, training support (CPC, first aid, ADR), and language requirements.
Documents to gather: Passport with validity, driving license, driver qualification cards, ADR certificates, tachograph records, references, criminal record certificate, medical fitness if available.

2. Clarify Legal Path

EU/EEA citizens: Prepare to register your residence upon arrival. Validate CPC equivalence if needed.
Non-EU citizens: Employer obtains work authorization. You apply for D/AM visa, then secure residence permit after entry. Build in processing time and keep copies of all documents.

3. Plan Certification and Training

License exchange: If required, book DRPCIV appointments early.
CPC: Enroll in an ARR-accredited center. Choose modules that include first aid, CPR, and AED.
Digital tachograph: Apply for a driver card at ARR. Take a refresher course to avoid infringements.
ADR: Add or renew ADR if it fits your target job. Include first aid elements relevant to chemicals.
First aid and CPR: Book a course aligned with ERC guidelines. Aim for both adult CPR and AED training. If you expect work in passenger transport, include pediatric first aid.

4. Secure Accommodation and Set Up Essentials

Temporary stay: Book an apartment or long-stay hotel in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi to attend interviews and training.
Banking: After you obtain a residence permit, open a bank account for salary payments.
SIM and data: Get a local mobile plan. Many logistics apps and navigation tools require mobile data.
Healthcare: Register with a family doctor if eligible. Keep private clinic contact details for faster access when needed.

5. Prepare for Work and Safety

Equipment: Ensure your vehicle kit meets Romanian requirements and your employer's standards. Upgrade your first aid kit with CPR face shield and tourniquet.
Winter readiness: If relocating between November and March or driving in mountain regions, ensure winter tires are fitted when roads have winter conditions and carry chains if required by signage. Pack warm gear.
Route planning: Learn Romanian signage and key motorway exits. Practice giving your location using km markers.

6. Start the Job and Keep Records

Document management: Keep digital and paper copies of your CPC, ADR, tachograph card, first aid certificate, employment contract, and immigration documents.
Compliance: Follow driving time and rest rules meticulously. Keep a log of any emergencies you attended and the care you provided for debriefing.

7. Build Your Network

Join expat driver groups. Share best practices on winter routes, rest stops, and reputable depots.
Attend safety days and toolbox talks. Offer to be a first aid point of contact at your depot.

Success Tips From Other Expats

Invest in first aid early: New employers notice. It signals professionalism and readiness for responsibility.
Ask for AED training: Some warehouses and depots have AEDs. Knowing how to use them raises survival chances in cardiac arrest.
Practice scenarios: Run through simulated emergencies. Keep your emergency scripts short: who you are, location, what happened, hazards, number of injured.
Keep your certificates valid: Align CPC and first aid renewal cycles so you minimize time off and maximize learning retention.
Communicate clearly: In Romania, concise and respectful communication goes a long way. Learn key Romanian safety terms used in logistics operations.
Respect rest times: Tired drivers make mistakes. First aid skills help others, but prevention starts with you.
Embrace winter: Fit appropriate tires, carry chains if required, and adjust speed for conditions. Know hypothermia signs.

Common Challenges and How First Aid Helps

Driving on the right side: If you are from a left-side driving country, practice before your first long route. First aid knowledge keeps you calmer under stress.
Winter driving: Black ice and snow are realities on some Romanian routes. Prepare a winter response checklist including first aid steps for cold exposure and crash response.
Toll and vignette systems: Keep rovinieta proof handy and learn bridge toll payment methods like electronic payment for Fetesti. Fewer roadside stops means more consistent rest and safer driving.
EU working time directives: Understanding and respecting driving time and rest reduces fatigue-related incidents.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Romania offers professional drivers from Global a strong career runway into the EU market with competitive earnings and a manageable cost of living. First aid and CPR training are essential elements of your professional toolkit, complementing CPC, tachograph competence, and ADR certification. With the right training, you bring more than horsepower to your new role. You bring leadership, safety, and the power to save lives.

Take the next step today:

Shortlist employers in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.
Confirm your legal path and plan your visa or registration.
Book CPC and first aid-CPR training with an ARR-accredited provider or the Romanian Red Cross.
Upgrade your in-cab first aid kit and prepare for the season ahead.

Your move to Romania can be both rewarding and life-changing. Equip yourself with the skills that matter most when it counts.

FAQ

1) Is first aid and CPR training mandatory for drivers in Romania?

While a standalone first aid certificate is not universally mandated for all driver roles, first aid topics are often integrated into CPC periodic training. Many employers consider current first aid and CPR certification a strong preference or requirement, especially in passenger transport and ADR. It is a practical necessity that improves safety and employability.

2) Can I take first aid and CPR courses in English in Romania?

Yes. In larger cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi, several accredited providers and the Romanian Red Cross offer training in English or with English-speaking instructors. When booking, confirm the language and that the curriculum aligns with European Resuscitation Council guidelines.

3) How does my non-EU driver license get recognized?

If you are non-EU, you will likely need to exchange your license at DRPCIV after obtaining a residence permit. Exchange without testing depends on Romania's reciprocity with your home country. If no reciprocity exists, you may need to pass theory and practical exams for the relevant categories. EU licenses are recognized directly.

4) What are typical salary packages for international truck drivers in Romania?

International HGV drivers often earn 2,000 - 3,500 EUR net per month, combining base pay and per diems. ADR roles can reach 2,300 - 3,800 EUR net. Domestic roles and passenger transport pay less on average but may offer stable schedules and local routes. Always request a clear net pay breakdown in your contract.

5) How do EU working time rules affect my schedule?

EU rules cap daily driving to 9 hours (twice per week up to 10), weekly driving to 56 hours, and 90 hours over two weeks. After 4.5 hours of driving, take a 45-minute break. Daily and weekly rest periods apply. Tachograph data is monitored by employers and ISCTR in Romania. These rules protect safety and reduce fatigue-related incidents.

6) What first aid items are legally required in vehicles in Romania?

Vehicles must carry a basic first aid kit, reflective vest, warning triangles, and a fire extinguisher. For professional drivers, upgrading the kit to include a CPR face shield, tourniquet, and hemostatic gauze is recommended. ADR vehicles require additional safety items consistent with load type and ADR regulations.

7) Are AEDs common at Romanian depots and rest areas?

AED availability is increasing, especially in large logistics hubs, warehouses, shopping centers, and airports. They may be less common at rural rest areas. Ask your employer about AED locations at depots and request AED familiarization as part of your first aid training.

8) How often should I renew my first aid training?

A 2-year cycle is a practical standard for refreshers, with some employers preferring annual CPR refreshers. CPC periodic training every 5 years will often revisit first aid, but hands-on practice more frequently helps retain skills.

9) What winter-specific preparations should I make as a driver in Romania?

Fit winter tires when roads have winter conditions, carry chains if signage requires, reduce speed, and extend following distances. Stock your cab with an upgraded first aid kit, thermal blanket, water, high-energy snacks, and a headlamp. Learn hypothermia and frostbite signs. Plan routes considering mountain passes and weather alerts.

10) What is the process to get a digital tachograph driver card in Romania?

Apply through ARR with your identity or residence documents, a photo, and the required fee. Processing can take 1-3 weeks. Verify your card's validity period, keep paper rolls in the cab, and know how to record manual entries for ferries or rest periods.