MEA504A
Maintain and fit oxygen masks

This unit of competency is part of the Aeroskills Life Support and Furnishing Certificate III and IV training pathways. It covers the competencies required to maintain and fit oxygen masks worn by aviation aircrew. Maintenance involves inspecting, testing, isolating faults, replacing parts, cleaning and testing prior to placing the item back in service. Fitting an oxygen mask includes adjusting the mask to fit the individual (oxygen masks are not an off-the-shelf issue). This unit is used in workplaces that operate under the airworthiness regulatory systems of the ADF and CASA.This unit is equivalent to PUADEFLS004B Maintain and fit oxygen masks.

Application

This unit requires application of skills and knowledge relating to the maintenance and fitment of oxygen masks worn by aircrew. Maintenance involves inspection, testing, fault diagnosis, replacement of parts, cleaning and functional testing. Fitment involves adjusting the oxygen mask to correctly fit an individual.


Prerequisites

MEA101B

Interpret occupational health and safety practices in aviation maintenance

MEA103B

Plan and organise aviation maintenance work activity

MEA105C

Apply quality standards applicable to aviation maintenance processes

MEA107B

Interpret and use aviation maintenance industry manuals and specifications

MEA108B

Complete aviation maintenance industry documentation

MEA109B

Perform basic hand skills, standard trade practices and fundamentals in aviation maintenance


Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Maintain oxygen mask

1.1. Oxygen mask is inspected for serviceability in accordance with standard procedures

1.2. Oxygen mask is tested for serviceability in accordance with standard procedures and manufacturer's specifications

1.3. Identified faults beyond own authority to rectify are reported to supervisor and faulty oxygen mask is quarantined

1.4. Unserviceable parts of the oxygen mask are replaced in accordance with standards procedures

1.5. Communication system components are tested in accordance with standard procedures

1.6. Oxygen mask is cleaned in accordance with standard procedures

1.7. Oxygen mask is presented for inspection by supervisor in accordance with standard procedures

1.8. Maintenance documentation is completed and processed in accordance with standard enterprise procedures

2. Fit oxygen mask

2.1. Fitting process is explained to the participant so that optimal fit can be achieved through relevant feedback

2.2. Participant is measured to select an appropriate size oxygen mask

2.3. Components of oxygen mask are adjusted to optimise fit

2.4. Integration of the oxygen mask and helmet is confirmed for correct function during operations

2.5. Oxygen mask fit is verified through participant feedback and by the supervisor

2.6. Relevant documentation is completed and processed in accordance with standard enterprise procedures

Required Skills

Required skills

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

applying OHS practices relating to oxygen mask maintenance processes

using MSDS

using applicable tools, testing/measuring equipment and maintenance documentation to:

solder oxygen mask electronic/electrical components

test the operation of helmet electronic/electrical components

replace unserviceable components in accordance with approved procedures

select and use appropriate oxygen mask cleaning materials

correctly fit oxygen masks to users

safely using the oxygen test rig

cleaning and maintaining equipment and tools

correctly disposing of hazardous waste

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

relevant enterprise procedures and maintenance publications

OHS procedures relating to oxygen mask maintenance

how to obtain MSDS

safety precautions relating to oxygen and the operation of the oxygen test rig

requirements for an oxygen mask servicing facility

oxygen in flight

components of an oxygen mask and their function

oxygen mask operation in relation to flight

oxygen regulator operation

physiological effects of flight

hypoxia

critical nature of maintaining and fitting oxygen masks

need to regularly assess correct fitment of oxygen masks

oxygen mask fitting procedures

fitting procedures relating to the fitment of oxygen masks to helmets

G forces

forces of ejection

basic electrical principles

environmental conditions that may affect oxygen equipment

approved cleaning methods for aviation life support equipment

handling, storage and transit procedures relating to life support equipment

handling and storage procedures for oxygen masks

types of corrosion and contamination that may affect oxygen masks

modification requirements for oxygen masks

oxygen mask repair procedures and limitations

soldering techniques

operation of testing and measuring equipment and tools used to maintain oxygen masks

use and storage of adhesives

Evidence Required

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to maintain and fit oxygen masks while observing all relevant safety precautions, especially those relating to oxygen.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

The underlying skills inherent in this unit should be transferable across a range of aircraft life support equipment maintenance activities. It is essential that oxygen mask testing and inspection procedures, cleanliness requirements and safety precautions are fully observed, understood and complied with. Ability to interpret maintenance and fitting procedures and apply them in practice is critical.

Evidence of transferability of skills and knowledge related to oxygen mask maintenance and fitting is essential. This is to be demonstrated through demonstration of the ability to recognise faults and damage and perform appropriate repairs that are within the bounds of the individual's authority, and through the demonstration of correct fitting procedures. The work plan should take account of applicable safety and quality requirements in accordance with the industry and regulatory standards.

A person cannot be assessed as competent until it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the workplace assessor that the relevant elements of the unit of competency are being achieved under routine supervision on at least three (3) unserviceable oxygen masks providing a representative range of maintenance tasks and on the correct fitting of oxygen masks to at least three individuals. This shall be established via the records in the Log of Industrial Experience and Achievement or, where appropriate, an equivalent Industry Evidence Guide.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Competency should be assessed in the workplace or simulated workplace using materials, tools and equipment specified in the maintenance manuals and applicable procedures. It is also expected that general and special purpose tools and ground support equipment would be used where appropriate.

Method of assessment

Guidance information for assessment


Range Statement

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Standard procedures

Standard procedures may be found in any or all of:

state/territory/Commonwealth OHS legislation, regulations and codes

Australian Standards

equipment manufacturers' specifications and procedures

industry practices

safety manual

maintenance schedules

work instructions

maintenance organisation manual

MSDS

Defence regulations and instructions

standing instructions

Faults

Faults may include:

contamination

corrosion

cracks

excessive wearing

fraying

incorrect manufacture

intermittent communication

leaks

perishing

Parts of the oxygen mask

Parts of the oxygen mask may include:

communication system (e.g. microphone)

delivery tube

exo-skeleton (e.g. outer shell)

face piece (e.g. may include trimming)

retention system (e.g. strap)

valves

Communication system components

Communication system components may include:

microphone

electric cables

switches

Adjustable components

Components may include:

retention system (e.g. strap)

seals

Application of this unit may relate to:

scheduled or unscheduled maintenance activities

individual or team-related activities


Sectors

Aircraft life support


Co-Requisites

MEA118A

Conduct self in the aviation maintenance environment

MEA240B

Use electrical test equipment to perform basic electrical tests


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Not applicable.