BA – MSMWHS216 Operate Breathing Apparatus
Introduction:
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to operate and maintain breathing apparatus and equipment in an irrespirable atmosphere, as defined by the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1715:2009 Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment.
Operators may also be required to wear breathing apparatus in emergency situations, however, this is not the prime focus of this unit.
This unit of competency applies to an individual working alone or as part of a team or group and working in liaison with other shift team members and the control room operator, as appropriate.
Target Audience:
This unit of competency applies to operators who are required to wear breathing apparatus because they are working:
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in a confined space
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with hazardous gases/vapours
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in an oxygen deficient atmosphere
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in other situations requiring the wearing of breathing apparatus.
Learning Outcomes:
- 1. Conduct pre-donning checks and tests on breathing apparatus
- 2. Operate breathing apparatus
- 3. Conclude operations in accordance with procedures
Learning Methods:
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Face to face classroom
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Knowledge assessment
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Practical assessment
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No pre-course reading or homework is required
Program Benefits:
- Survival Skills: You learn how to breathe safely when the air around you is toxic, smoky, or lacks oxygen.
- Gear Mastery: You find out how to inspect, fit, and use a BA set so it never fails you.
- Air Control: You learn how to read your gauges and track your air so that you stay safe while Operating in a BA environment.
- Job Opportunities: Many high-paying jobs in mining, oil, gas, and rescue require this ticket before you can step onto the site.
- Safety: It gives you the official qualification required by Australian law to do high-risk atmospheric work.
- Crisis Control: You practice what to do if a mask leaks, a low-air alarm rings, or you lose visibility etc. to keep you safe.
Content:
- 1.1 Inspect breathing apparatus for immediate use in accordance with procedures
- 1.2 Report/record faulty or damaged equipment in accordance with procedures
- 2.1 Identify, monitor and control hazards in accordance with the procedures
- 2.2 Establish and maintain communication with appropriate personnel throughout the activity
- 2.3 Use breathing apparatus for the required activities in accordance with procedures
- 2.4 Monitor remaining working time available and return to a respirable atmosphere as required
- 2.5 Implement entrapment procedures in accordance with procedures
- 2.6 Maintain personal safety at all times
- 3.1 Close down breathing apparatus set
- 3.2 Remove breathing apparatus set
- 3.3 Undertake after-use cleaning and maintenance of breathing apparatus
- 3.4 Make equipment ready for operational use
Upcoming Workshops
| Name | Date | Time | Location | Spaces | Cost | Enrol Myself | Group Booking |
| MSMWHS216 Operate Breathing Apparatus | 3 September 2026 | 08:00 am - 04:30 pm | LifeAid Moranbah | 5 | $600.00 |