MSMWHS216 Operate Breathing Apparatus

Workers that are expected to use Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), "shall" be considered for retraining "at least annually" or more often depending on the specific circumstances. AS1715:2009 2.4

The course covers:

• regulations and legislative requirements
• human breathing system
• Contaminated Atmospheres
• fully self contained, Entry and escape units, Airlines
• Documented inspection of equipment
• Practical, scenario based activities using several types of RPE including Sabre/Scott, MSA & Drager
• Communications

This course is assessed using a variety of written and practical components including inspection, fault finding and troubleshooting of equipment, hazard & risk assessments, operation of self contained and airline systems.

Participants must be reasonably fit and be able to complete tasks wearing several types of breathing apparatus to demonstrate competence.

Please Note: Certain medical conditions may preclude some learners. 

This course has been mapped between level 2 and 3 of the Australian Core Skills Framework. It is recommended that participants provide evidence of their Foundation Skill Level prior to the commencement of the course.

• Note: All participants must be able to communicate effectively in English and must be able to complete all required documentation including Entry permits, risk assessments etc 
• You can assess your Foundation Skill level - Click Here. Please contact us on 1300 886 477 to discuss this further.

You will need to provide a USI (Unique Student Identified). If you do not have one, you can apply free here.

All participants MUST provide Photo ID on the day of training.

Participants are reminded that they are required to provide us with their Unique Student Identifier (USI) before they can receive a qualification or statement of attainment.

More information can be found at usi.gov.au

Factors which MAY preclude use of SCBA:

• Learners should be physically capable of supporting the equipment for prolonged periods.
• Claustrophobia and associated anxiety
• Chronic Lung Conditions/disorders – e.g. Emphysema, Asthma
• Heart/Circulatory Diseases – e.g. Heart Disease, Anaemia
• Epileptic Seizures
• Facial Seal of respirators -  (AS/NZS1715:2009 App B)
  • Beard Growth – should not use RPE
  • Moustaches, Side burns, stubble growth, long hair – may interfere with face seal
  • All forms of jewellery that interferes with facial seal.
  • make up, facial creams cause the mask to migrate and interfere with seal
  • Other facial characteristics which may cause face sealing problems:  scars, hollow temples, very prominent cheekbones, deep skin creases, a misshapen nose, lack of a nose bridge and lack of teeth or dentures

Specific direction is available from AS/NZS1715:2009. MSS does not undertake or make medical or other physical capability assessments. If you are uncertain, seek medical assistance from your GP.

Download Course Outline
Download Participant Handbook

Succesful completion will result in issuance of 

Statement of Attainment

MSMWHS216 Operate Breathing Apparatus