This open circuit breathing apparatus course is for those required to use breathing apparatus for respiratory protection in their job or during emergencies. It covers the safe inspection, wearing, and use of equipment.
- Course complies with HSE guidelines, BS EN 529: 2005 Respiratory Protective Devices
- Valid for 3 years
- Designed for industrial environments (not firefighting or emergency response)
- Focus on safe inspection, usage, and aftercare of equipment
Neil Fowkes has over 30 years of engineering and safety expertise. He specialises in confined space rescue, working at height, and international safety training—including offshore operations.
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A former prison officer with expertise in riot control and hostage negotiation, Steve now leads rescue operations and delivers specialist training—while pursuing advanced safety and management qualifications.
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Billy is the Senior SHEQ Manager at MRS Training and Rescue. After serving nine years in the Royal Air Force Fire Service, he transitioned into Fire Safety and Health & Safety instruction. A recognised expert, Billy is dedicated to driving continuous improvements in safety and health across the organisation.
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Drawing on extensive hands-on experience in confined spaces and working at height, Dan specialises in delivering bespoke training and emergency response solutions. He has worked on complex international projects and currently manages major contracts, ensuring the safety and preparedness of rescue teams across the UK.
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Lindsey Speirs specialises in confined space training and Mental Health First Aid. Drawing on her background in mental health, challenging behaviour, and eight years of palliative care experience, Lindsey brings a unique combination of compassion and expertise to her role.
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Andy Watson has over 15 years’ experience in emergency response, training, and leadership. He was instrumental in establishing MRS Training & Rescue's Aberdeen centre, setting the standard for training and rescue services in the area.
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Liam Spencer is a high-risk rescue instructor and drone pilot at MRS Mansfield. He leads a team of 20, providing confined space training, consultancy, and drone inspections, while fostering strong client relationships.
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Rob Tune has 14 years of experience in high-risk industries including mining, water, energy, and nuclear. He oversees training quality, course development, and assurance, leveraging real-world insights to enhance learning.
Derek Speirs began his career in the mining industry at 16, following his father's footsteps. After gaining extensive experience in mining and rescue operations, he joined MRS Training & Rescue in 2013 and swiftly rose through the ranks.
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Ross Graham has a background in emergency response, offshore operations, and health & safety training. He plays a key role in developing industry-leading training programmes and helms operational teams in high-risk environments.
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Stuart Jackson is an expert mine manager with over 40 years’ experience in mining operations, safety management, and project leadership. He specialises in improving safety practices and operational efficiency in complex projects.
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Russell Duff oversees safety, training, and business growth at MRS Training and Rescue's Southampton centre. A former Royal Navy Officer, he brings a wealth of maritime and leadership experience to the MRS team.
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Matt has six years of experience in delivering confined space, work at height, and STCW training. He combines his expertise in rescue operations and site consultations to help organisations maintain the highest safety standards.
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Karl joined MRS Training and Rescue in 2015. Passionate about health and safety, he began as an associate rescuer, providing industrial rescue at a power station. Now a full-time rescue and trainer operative, Karl specialises in confined spaces and high-risk environments, trains the HART team, and maintains essential rescue equipment.
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About this course
On this course delegates will learn how to wear and use open circuit breathing apparatus. Delegates will learn how to inspect and use the apparatus safely – so they are able to undertake specific jobs in their workplace.
This course will teach delegates about the safe working periods when using breathing apparatus (BA) – and simple BA calculations. Delegates will also learn about the relevant legislation – and how to carry out pre-wear checks, put on, clean and store BA.
This course is highly practical – and delegates will learn and use equipment in simulated confined spaces.
Topics covered:
- Understanding the anatomy and physiology of respiration
- Understanding how an open circuit breathing apparatus operates
- Understanding requirements placed on an open circuit breathing apparatus wearer
- Conducting pre-donning checks and tests on open circuit breathing apparatus
- Donning and checking breathing apparatus
- Operating the open circuit breathing apparatus
- Knowing the after use care of open circuit breathing apparatus
To view the full course timetable click here.
This course is taught by highly experienced instructors – most of whom have worked in hazardous environments where open circuit breathing apparatus was worn.
As well as working experience, many of our trainers are also real-life rescuers – who have been part of emergency operations in the UK and around the world.
1 trainer to 12 candidates (1:12):
- Theory training and assessment
1 trainer to 6 candidates (1:6)
- Practical training and assessment
Certification/Accreditation
This Open Circuit Breathing Apparatus course complies with HSE guidelines, BS EN 529: 2005 Respiratory Protective Devices, and meets the requirements of the National Occupational Standards for confined space entry (City & Guilds 6150).
To pass this course – delegates must pass a practical assessment of their use of open circuit breathing apparatus – and a written test on the subject. If successful – delegates will receive an industry recognised MRS certificate.
Certification is valid for 3 years. If you need to renew your certification – take one of our refresher courses.
MRS certificates are emailed within a week of the course being completed.
Payments
If you book this course online, you can pay by debit or credit card.
If you wish to pay via an invoice, please enquire about the course and our team will contact you to complete the booking.
Course materials, refreshments and a light lunch are provided.
After booking
Joining instructions are sent by email – which are usually received on the same day but always within 48 hours of booking.
Courses start at 8.45am and finish at about 3.30pm.
Yes - subject to our terms and conditions.
Yes, free parking is available at all our UK training centres for course candidates.
Entry requirements
Delegates must be physically fit for courses involving practical exercises and PPE. Key health conditions to consider include heart disease, respiratory issues (e.g., asthma), high blood pressure, epilepsy, vertigo, impaired limb function, uncorrected vision problems, and any substance dependencies. If unsure, employers should arrange a medical assessment. We reserve the right to refuse training to those deemed medically unfit.
Yes. Delegates must be clean shaven when using full breathing apparatus, as facial hair can prevent a proper seal between the mask and the wearer’s face.
Delegates must provide photographic ID, such as a passport or driving licence, before completing any course. The legal name on the ID will appear on the certificate.
In addition, all candidates are required to bring the following PPE for practical exercises:
- Hard hat
- Workwear
- Safety footwear
- Gloves
Yes. Due to the nature of the training course and the emphasis placed on communication, there is only a provision for the assessments to be undertaken in English. Therefore English proficiency is required.
