Physical tests
Simulated Ladder lift
This is a test of your upper and lower body strength, and your ability to lift an apparatus which mimics a ladder from a support which is 75cm off the ground to a specified height, usually 182cm and back down to the support in a controlled manner. The weight of this is usually 30kg. You are usually given lighter weights to practice the technique first and ensure you are happy with the instructions given and the apparatus.
There is no time limit on this test.
Equipment Carry
This tests your cardiovascular fitness, stamina and muscular strength and endurance. This is the test that many potential recruits fail on as it involves grit and determination and a good level of fitness to complete it within the specified time. The cumulative distance covered is 550 metres. You can find and download a mock example of this test in our resources page.
Time limit for this test is 5 minutes and 47 seconds.
Ladder climb
This is a test of your confidence whilst working at height. You will be guided by the instructor on how to complete this at a lower level first, that will be demonstrated by them first. You are required to take a ‘Leg Lock’ at ground level before ascending a fully extended 13.5metre ladder to almost full height and again take a ‘leg lock’ as before but must lean back with your arms outstretched and shout out the number or symbol that is being shown to you from the ground. For this test you are connected to a harness for your safety.
This is not a timed test.
Enclosed space
This is a test of your confidence, agility, stamina and claustrophobia. In addition to your fire kit, for this test you will also don a face mask to simulate breathing apparatus whilst you have to crawl through a series of tunnels, drops, and climbs in darkness having to navigate your way around the course. Halfway through the test, you will be blindfolded and then have to feel your way back through the course. This again is to test your confidence and resilience in stressful situations with limited or no visibility.
This is a timed test.
Equipment assembly
This is a test of manual dexterity. You will be required to follow a set of instructions and/or diagrams to assemble and disassemble a piece of equipment within a set time. No previous knowledge is required for this equipment. If something is incorrect, the examiner may refer you to the instructions/diagram informing you something is incorrect. They can only refer you 3 times.
This test is timed.
Ladder extension
This is a test of upper body strength to show your ability to extend as well as lower a ladder in a controlled and safe manner. You will be expected to raise the ladder to a predetermined point, stop and then safely lower the ladder back down to its starting point.
This is not a timed test.
Casualty evacuation
This is a test of upper and lower body strength and endurance. You will be required to drag a 55kg casualty backwards around a 30m course. You will be guided by an instructor to ensure you are going in the correct direction and usually it is to a cone where you will go around and back, or in a triangle shape back to the starting point. You will have to lift the casualty and drag them either with your arms under the casualty’s arms or by the handles on the casualty. The usual method is arms under the casualty’s arms.
Time limit for this test is 41 seconds
Ladder carry/manoeuvre
This is a test of upper and lower body strength and endurance. You will be required to lift, carry and then lower a 13.5metre ladder, weighing approximately 100kg, as part of a team of 4. The distance you carry the ladder differs from each fire service and not all include this test as part of the physical test but can be anywhere between 20metres to 50metres.
This is not a timed test.
Hose running
You will be required to run out and make up 3 lengths of 70mm hose within the allotted time. This is generic however as each fire service may change this slightly and it may be more or less lengths of hoses required.
Swimming test
This test will take place on a separate occasion, where you will have to demonstrate you can swim 25metres. This is not a standard test for all fire services, but some coastal brigades may add this test in. Be sure to check once you get your information pack from the brigade you are applying for.
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