Valid for 3 years Valid For 3 Years
Training Tunnels Equipment Training Tunnels
Experienced Trainers (Expertise and Experience) Expertise and Experience
Nationwide (UK Wide Coverage) UK Wide Coverage
5 Star Review Rated Excellent on Google

Breathing Apparatus User Initial Course

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.

Key points
  • 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
"Our team are skilled professionals who share real, relevant experiences to bring our training to life."

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.

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Steven Jackson
8 days ago
Great course brilliant instructor Tony definitely recommend doing courses here
Richard Robinson
10 days ago
Had Andy Wan training us this year, excellent 2 days at Mines Rescue 👍
Dennis Johnson
10 days ago
Very good training standard. Informative. Reasonable Lunch.
alan palmer
10 days ago
Great course, great venue, so much better than using that crappy portable tunnel thing, get rid of it. Instructor was so nice, put you at ease, great presentation work and made it easy to follow. Very enjoyable.
louise bishop
10 days ago
I attended Emergency First Aid Course. The trainer Dale was fab, made everything easy to understand and great knowledge too. Good to practice CPR, Defib and bandaging techniques too. Thanks very much - will definitely be back again when due.