This Breathing Apparatus User Refresher course is ideal for experienced breathing apparatus (BA) users needing recertification. It updates delegates on the latest legislation, equipment, and best practices to uphold safety standards.
- Valid for 3 years
- Covers critical updates on BA legislation and equipment
- Supervised practical sessions in purpose-built facilities
- Includes pre-donning checks, BA testing, and donning procedures
- Focus on aftercare of open circuit BA equipment
- Clean-shaven attendance required to ensure mask seal
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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.
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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About this course
This Open Circuit BA refresher course is taught using lectures, demonstrations and practical training sessions. This course is designed to ‘refresh’ knowledge on how to check and use open circuit breathing apparatus safely and correctly.
This course includes practical sessions which include pre-donning checks, testing of open circuit breath apparatus, and how to don the equipment. The sessions also cover the aftercare of open circuit BA apparatus.
The main topics covered include:
- Understanding requirements placed on a breathing apparatus wearer
- Understanding how an open circuit breathing apparatus operates
- After use care of open circuit breathing apparatus
- Understanding the anatomy and physiology of respiration
To view the full course timetable click here.
This course is taught by highly experienced instructors – all of whom have worked in hazardous environments, where open circuit breathing apparatus may have been worn. This experience provides our trainers first-hand knowledge of the issues delegates may face in their working conditions.
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
1 trainer to 6 candidates (1:6):
- Practical assessment
Certification/Accreditation
The Open Circuit Breathing Apparatus Refresher course meets HSE guidelines, BS EN 529: 2005 Respiratory Protective Devices and the National Occupational Standards for confined space entries.
The training course will conclude with a written test and a practical assessment of their ability to inspect, don, wear, take-off and undertake after use servicing of breathing apparatus.
On successful completion of the course, candidates will receive an MRS Training & Rescue Certificate.
Certification lasts for 3 years.
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 evidence of a valid BA User certificate.
They must also 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.
