About the Course
Operate Breathing apparatus (MSMWHS216)
Operate Breathing Apparatus is the training accreditation suitable for people who are required to wear a breathing apparatus because they are working in a confined space with potentially toxic environment or for other applications requiring the wearing of breathing apparatus.
WorkSafe Connect has been delivering confined space related training for over 15 years and is one of Queensland’s leading suppliers of breathing apparatus training.
Our 5-hour course is designed to ensure that participants have the skills and knowledge associated with the operation and maintenance of breathing apparatus equipment in an irrespirable atmosphere.
The program is made up of the following nationally accredited unit of competency:
- MSMWHS216 – Operate Breathing apparatus
Who Should Attend
This course is for workers who are required to wear breathing apparatus as part of their duties. It is particularly relevant to those involved in confined space entry, rescue and emergency response, mining, resources, energy, oil, gas, petrochemical, utilities, manufacturing, heavy industry, defence, and hazardous operations.
As per AS/NZS 1715:2009, workers who wear breathing apparatus must complete refresher training at least every 12 months, or more frequently where risk profiles demand. This ensures ongoing competency and compliance with legislative requirements and industry best practice.
Course Description
WorkSafe Connect’s Breathing Apparatus course applies to operators who are required to wear breathing apparatus for part of their job. They may also be required to wear it in emergency situations; however, this is not the prime focus of this units.
Under the conditions stipulated by the Regulator to achieve the unit of competency, all students must be able to successfully fit a mask that creates a seal. To ensure this happens it is a requirement that participants attending have a clean shaven face for the practical assessment.
Key areas covered during the course include:
- Operating breathing apparatus
- Use of procedures, personal lines, and tallies
- Pre-use tests and checks
- Breathing apparatus control, including principles of BA Control, organisation procedures, Stage 1 (one entry point), Stage 2 (multiple entry points), entry/exit control point, entry/exit control officer, timing device
- Respiratory system, effects of irrespirable atmospheres on the body, protective equipment
- Characteristics, component parts, operation of compressed air breathing apparatus
- Operational testing, standard operating procedures and safe work practices when wearing breathing apparatus
- Entrapment procedures
- Inspecting, donning, operating in, removal, cleaning, maintaining, and returning to operational status of breathing apparatus.
Course Delivery Options
Training will be conducted by one of our experienced trainer assessors who have industry currency, strong knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations and industry standards.
Practical and theoretical activities drive the training experience to ensure that the training is engaging, interesting and relevant.
WorkSafe Connect is able to offer this course:
- Face to Face – Public Courses (Brisbane and Townsville)
- Face to Face – Onsite (at your site / workplace)
Please note that our Operate Breathing Apparatus training course forms part of a wider confined space skill set which also includes confined space, confined space supervisor, gas test atmospheres, issue work permits and risk assessment training courses.
If you would like to discuss delivery options in more detail, then please get in contact with us.
Accreditation
To complete the course, students must successfully complete all assessments which are aligned with the national unit of competency.
All assessments are completed during the course – no assessment activities need to be completed prior to or post the training course.
Upon successful completion of the course requirements, students will receive a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment for the following unit of competency:
- MSMWHS216 – Operate Breathing apparatus
If you have any questions, please get in touch with a member of the WorkSafe Connect team today.
Certificate delivery:
- Courses at our facilities: Certificates are issued on the day, with digital copies emailed to participants and employers (if applicable) the following business day.
- Courses at client sites: Certificates are issued within 7 business days, with digital copies emailed to participants and employers.
Course Entry Requirements
If any additional learning support is required (e.g. with language, literacy or numeracy), please notify our Operations team prior to the course or speak with your trainer on the day —we’re here to help.
What to Bring
- Your USI (Unique Student Identifier) – click here for more info
- Comfortable, practical clothing is recommended (long pants or shorts and a sleeved shirt or t-shirt).
- No PPE/high-vis required
- Closed-in shoes
- All course materials are provided
Amenities at our Brisbane and Townsville Facilities
- Parking available on-site or nearby
- Complimentary tea, coffee, biscuits, and mints
- Fridge and microwave available for use
- Cafés and food options located nearby for breaks
