MSMWHS216
Operate Breathing Apparatus
- Nationally Recognised Certificate
- Fast Certificate Turnaround
- Experienced and Certified Instructors
- Flexible Learning Options
- Industry Validated

Course Description
The unit MSMWHS216 – Operate Breathing Apparatus – provides students with the skills and knowledge required to safely operate breathing apparatus equipment in hazardous environments. This unit is essential for workers in industries such as mining, construction, manufacturing, and emergency services, where respiratory protection is critical when working in confined spaces, areas with toxic gases, or oxygen-deficient environments.
During the course, learners will be trained in the correct use, maintenance, and operation of breathing apparatus to ensure safe breathing in hazardous conditions. Students will learn how to conduct pre-operational checks, don and doff the equipment, and manage the apparatus during use. The unit also covers emergency procedures, ensuring students can respond to potential risks such as equipment malfunctions or changes in the work environment. Emphasis is placed on understanding when breathing apparatus is required, monitoring air supply, and adhering to safety protocols.
This unit is particularly relevant for workers in high-risk roles, including emergency responders, confined space workers, and those in industries handling dangerous substances or environments. It ensures that individuals can effectively use breathing apparatus to protect their health and safety during critical tasks.
Upon completion of MSMWHS216, students will be equipped to safely operate breathing apparatus in compliance with workplace safety regulations and industry standards. The skills gained in this course are essential for minimising respiratory risks and ensuring safe operations in hazardous environments.
Units Delivered
The following units will be included in your certificate:
MSMWHS216
Operate breathing apparatus
Additional Information
Course Delivery
This course can be delivered/assessed in the workplace or at facility organised by the training provider.
Course Durations
Course durations can vary for multiple reasons, so the durations below are the minimum possible amount.
Entry Requirements
An individual undertaking this course with Allens Training Pty Ltd will need to demonstrate the following to be eligible for entry:
- An official form of photo identification (e.g., driver’s licence, passport, or student ID).
- Participants are required to be clean shaven to attend this course, in accordance with AS/NZS ISO 16975.3 and AS/NZS 1715:2009. Facial hair within the sealing area can compromise the effectiveness of the respirator, impacting its ability to provide proper protection
- Protective footwear/safety shoes and comfortable/practical clothing must be provided by the student and worn during the practical sessions and assessment.
- Psychological and physical capability to meet the demands of the practical demonstrations for this course, including wearing and operating breathing apparatus and associated equipment in a range of conditions. Have the physical capacity to independently don, operate, and remove a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) weighing up to 15 kg, work safely in confined or low-visibility environments, and perform simulated tasks involving crawling, kneeling, climbing, carrying equipment, and a controlled entrapment exercise requiring sustained physical effort and calm breathing under stress
Assessment Requirements
Individuals undertaking this course will be expected to complete both written and practical assessment tasks.
Certificate Renewal Requirements
This certificate does not require renewal
Learner Rights, Responsibilities & Support
Please note that enrolment to this course is made with Allens Training Pty Ltd RTO 90909. Please refer to the student handbook on our website for all details relating to rights and responsibilities including complaints and appeals.
Assessment Activities
Assessments conducted during face-to-face training session(s) include:
Performance tasks:
- Conduct pre-donning, checks, tests and concluding operations for breathing apparatus (BA)
- Operate BA in a hazardous atmosphere
- Operate breathing apparatus (BA) under adverse conditions
- Complete an Equipment fault Log
Documentation – Completion of an Equipment Fault log.
Theory assessment – A written assessment consisting of short answer and multiple-choice questions. The student must complete all assessment questions.
This course is delivered and assessed on behalf of Allens Training Pty Ltd RTO 90909
Other Training Options
All Courses
Course Set - Confined Spaces and Operate Breathing Apparatus
The course set including units RIIWHS202E and MSMWHS216 is designed to provide individuals with essential skills to work safely in confined spaces and operate breathing apparatus in hazardous environments. This training is ideal for workers in high-risk industries such as mining, construction, manufacturing, and oil and gas, where confined spaces and poor air quality pose significant safety risks....
View Course
Communicate Information
The unit RIICOM301E – Communicate Information – equips students with the skills and knowledge to effectively communicate in the workplace, ensuring a clear and accurate exchange of information in various professional contexts. This unit is essential for individuals working in industries such as mining, construction, manufacturing, and logistics, where effective communication is critical for safe a...
View Course
Course Set - Confined Spaces and Work in Accordance With a Permit
The course set including units RIIWHS202E and MSMPER200 is designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge required to safely work in confined spaces and perform tasks in accordance with a permit system. This training is essential for workers in industries such as construction, mining, manufacturing, and resource sectors where confined spaces and controlled work environments present ...
View Course
Enter and Work in Confined Spaces
The unit RIIWHS202E – Enter and Work in Confined Spaces – provides students with the skills and knowledge required to safely enter and work in confined spaces across various industries. Confined spaces, such as tanks, silos, pits, and pipelines, pose significant hazards, making this unit essential for individuals in sectors like construction, mining, utilities, and manufacturing, where confined sp...
View Course