Job Related / Physical Tests
The physical elements of the National Firefighter Selection Tests are encapsulated within 6 discrete physical tests (see below).
All the tests are performed in standard firefighter personal protective equipment (helmet, jacket, trousers, gloves and boots), which together weigh ~ 10 kg. This will make the tests slightly more difficult than they first appear, as this additional weight will make movement more difficult.
Equipment Carry test
The equipment carry test is essentially a shuttle test that is designed to replicate some of the physical demands involved in setting up a water relay station to supply water to a grassland fire. The test is performed back and forth along a 25 m track whilst wearing full fire fighting protective clothing (which weighs ~10 kg). This is not a test of memory as the facilitator will remind applicants of the sequence of events. The equipment will consist of one 30 metre (100 foot) hosereel tubing on a drum, two coiled 70mm soft suction hoses, one 100mm hard suction hose and suction strainer in a basket and one 33kg (5 stone) barbell. Applicants will need to complete this exercise in a given amount of time
Casualty Evacuation test
The casualty evacuation requires you to walk backwards (you will be guided by a facilitator) dragging a 55 kg (8½ stone) dummy casualty around 3 sides of a 10 m square. Applicants will need to complete this exercise in a given amount of time
Breathing Apparatus Crawl test
The breathing apparatus crawl is a test of your ability to cope with dark / confined spaces and has only low-moderate physical demands, although good levels of flexibility and body awareness will be an advantage. Applicants wear a breathing apparatus facemask and negotiate a crawl and walkway with clear vision. Halfway through the route their vision is obscured and they retrace their steps to the start/finish point. Applicants will need to complete this exercise in a given amount of time.
Ladder Climb test
The ladder climb test is designed to show confidence for working at height. This is a physical test of confidence and the ability to follow instructions. Applicants must ascend a 13.5 metre (45 foot) Fire & Rescue Service ladder to a point two thirds of the full working height, take a leg lock and remove their hands from the ladder and look down to the assessor to identify a symbol placed flat on the ground at the foot of the ladder.
Ladder Lift test
The ladder lift test simulates the individual physical demands of lifting the head of a 13.5 m ladder back on top of an appliance. A total load of 30 kg, lifted to a height of 1.90 m is required to successfully complete this test.
Equipment Assembly test
The equipment assembly test is a timed test designed to test manual dexterity. Applicants must assemble and then disassemble a piece of equipment following a demonstration by the facilitator.
For information about preparing for the job related / physical tests visit the Fire Fit website. To download the fitness preparation booklet click here.
