Course Overview
The Breathing Apparatus for Work (Airline) course gives learners the practical skills to safely operate Supplied Air Breathing Apparatus (SABA) for use during routine work activities in irrespirable or hazardous atmospheres. It covers how to inspect and prepare a SABA system, don and operate the equipment, monitor air supply during work tasks, and conclude operations and equipment care in accordance with workplace procedures.
Operating supplied air breathing apparatus is an essential workplace safety capability required across high-risk industries, where workers are required to undertake routine tasks in environments containing toxic gases, oxygen-deficient atmospheres, or other airborne hazards. The 1-day Breathing Apparatus for Work (Airline) (BAWORK) course delivered at ERGT Australia provides learners with the practical knowledge and hands-on experience required to safely operate Supplied Air Breathing Apparatus (SABA) during work activities in irrespirable atmospheres. Designed for personnel undertaking routine work tasks in environments where air quality may be compromised, this course focuses on respiratory protection standards, SABA components and pre-use inspection, fit testing, and operating SABA in controlled work environments in accordance with workplace procedures and legislative requirements.
Through a combination of facilitator-led learning and practical activities in a simulated work environment, learners will build the confidence and capability to safely don and operate SABA systems during work tasks, monitor and manage air supply throughout the work activity, and complete post-use checks and equipment maintenance in line with industry best practice. Upon successful completion, learners will be job-ready to operate Supplied Air Breathing Apparatus during routine work activities in irrespirable or hazardous atmospheres.
Key details
Learning Objectives
- By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Conduct pre-donning checks and tests on breathing apparatus
- Operate breathing apparatus
- Conclude operations in accordance with procedures
Prior Skills & Knowledge
There are no pre-requisites from the training standard for this course.
What to expect
Learner Support:
Learner wellbeing for this course is supported through measures that recognise the physical, cognitive, and psychological demands of operating Supplied Air Breathing Apparatus during work activities. As the course involves wearing a full-face mask, breathing through a regulated air supply, and operating in irrespirable atmospheres while connected to an air supply line, ERGT implements support strategies that prioritise learner safety, confidence and readiness. This ensures learners can safely participate in all practical components without compromising their wellbeing or safety.
Physical Wellbeing Support:
- Trainers continuously monitor learners for signs of fatigue, discomfort or restricted movement while wearing breathing apparatus and connected to an air supply line.
- Breathing apparatus fit, seal and comfort are checked before and throughout practical sessions, with trainer support for adjustment where required.
- Learners are encouraged to disclose any physical concerns (e.g. fatigue, minor injury or discomfort when wearing breathing apparatus) so adjustments can be made to participation.
Psychological & Emotional Wellbeing Support:
- Trainers provide clear pre-activity briefings to prepare learners for breathing apparatus wear, including what to expect when wearing a full-face mask and breathing through a regulated air supply.
- Learners experiencing discomfort when wearing breathing apparatus or operating while connected to an air supply line are supported through gradual exposure, additional guidance or alternative sequencing of activities where appropriate.
Cognitive Support for Safety-Critical Tasks:
- Structured delivery of respiratory protection standards, SABA components, fit testing and equipment maintenance prior to practical application.
- Step-by-step demonstrations of SABA operation, including pre-use checks, donning and fitting, air supply connection, and post-use procedures.
- Use of visual aids, demonstrations and real equipment to reinforce understanding of safe SABA operation during work activities.






