PUAFIR207 - Operate breathing apparatus open circuit

Nationally recognised training. Training and assessment delivered by Safe Act Pty Ltd on behalf of Allens Training Pty Ltd RTO 90909.

About this course

This nationally recognised course develops the practical skills and knowledge required to safely use open-circuit breathing apparatus in a hazardous atmosphere. It is designed for personnel who may be required to wear breathing apparatus while working as part of a team, including those undertaking firefighting and emergency response roles.

Students will learn how to inspect breathing apparatus for immediate use, identify and report faulty or damaged equipment, select appropriate ancillary equipment, and correctly don, start and check a breathing apparatus set.

The course also covers operating breathing apparatus in hazardous conditions, monitoring and controlling hazards, maintaining communication with team members, following breathing apparatus control procedures, and responding to emergency situations such as entrapment, exhaustion of air supply, loss of face seal and equipment malfunction.

Students will also learn how to safely conclude breathing apparatus operations, including shutting down and removing the set, cleaning and maintaining equipment, returning it to operational readiness and participating in a debrief.

Please note: 

*Individuals in the fire sector*, or those completing this unit as part of a fire qualification such as RII30719 Certificate III in Emergency Response and Rescue, must hold the prerequisite unit PUAFIR210 Prevent Injury.  

*The fire sector is those sections of government departments, statutory authorities or organisations that have responsibility under jurisdictional arrangements for the delivery of firefighting and fire management services.  

Units Delivered

The following units will be included in your certificate:

PUAFIR207 - Operate breathing apparatus open circuit

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.

Refresher face-to-face contact time of at least 9 Hours

Face-to-Face face-to-face contact time of at least 20 Hours

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).
• Must hold the pre-requisite unit PUAFIR210 Prevent injury (* only if undertaking training related to the fire sector as well as individuals undertaking RII30719 Certificate III in Emergency Response and Rescue).
• Participants must be clean shaven to attend the course, in accordance with AS/NZS 1715:2009 and AS/NZS ISO 16975.3. Facial hair within the sealing area can compromise the effectiveness of the respirator, impacting its ability to provide proper protection.
• The physical capability to wear and work in a breathing apparatus and associated equipment in a range of simulated hazardous, confined or reduced-visibility environments; and complete associated manual-handling tasks. This requires sufficient mobility, strength, stamina, balance and coordination to maintain personal safety while wearing the equipment.
• Protective footwear/safety shoes and comfortable/practical clothing must be provided by the student and worn during the practical sessions and assessment.
• To successfully complete this course, students will need to demonstrate the following language, literacy, numeracy and digital (LLND) skills during training and assessment:
  • Learning: Follow detailed safety procedures to use breathing equipment correctly in hazardous situations.
  • Reading: Read and understand safety instructions, warning labels, and equipment checklists used at work. Writing: Write short notes or complete simple forms to record equipment checks or report issues.
  • Writing: Write short notes or complete simple forms to record equipment checks or report issues.
  • Oral communication: Listen carefully to instructions and speak clearly with others to make sure we stay safe while using equipment.
  • Numeracy: Use numbers to check air pressure, monitor time left, and make sure I’m using the equipment safely.
  • Digital Literacy: Able to use a mobile phone or basic device to read messages, follow online instructions, complete online forms or access learning resources

* The fire sector is those sections of government departments, statutory authorities or organisations that have responsibility under jurisdictional arrangements for the delivery of firefighting and fire management services.

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

Assessment Activities

Performance tasks and practical scenarios:

• Conduct pre-donning, checks, tests and concluding operations for BA
• Respond to simulated BA emergencies
• Operate BA in a simulated hazardous atmosphere with reduced visibility
• Operate BA under simulated adverse conditions and implement emergency procedures

Documentation:

• Complete an Equipment Fault Log

Theory assessment – A written assessment consisting of multiple-choice and short answer questions. The student must complete all assessment questions.

Non-fire sector option

A separate non-fire sector offer is available. Check its prerequisites and assessment arrangements with Safe Act before booking.

View the PUAFIR207 non-fire sector course

Bookings and enquiries

View current course details and enquire in Training Desk

For scheduled dates, delivery locations or a workplace group booking, contact Safe Act or call 1300 712 220. Fees and availability are confirmed at booking.

Read the Allens Training student handbook for learner rights, responsibilities and support.