Fitness test
Being a firefighter is a physically demanding role. As part of the application process, you will be required to demonstrate a standard of 42 VO₂ max (put simply, the rate your body uses oxygen), which is the national minimum standard for someone joining the fire and rescue service. This is identified by a bleep test (shuttle run), which involves running continuously between two markers 20 metres apart.
The running speed is determined by an audio bleep and the interval between the bleeps decreases as you complete each level. You will need to run for roughly eight minutes and 30 seconds to achieve Level 8 Shuttle 8, which is the equivalent of a VO₂ max of 42.3.
Please visit www.bleeptests.com for more information about a bleep test to help you to prepare, and also follow this useful guide for training to pass the bleep test.
For an overview of the fitness requirements for being a firefighter, visit Modern Firefighter Fitness Guide
National firefighter practical tests
In addition to the bleep test you will be required to complete a series of practical assessments that are relevant to the role of a firefighter. These are designed to assess:
- Fitness
- Strength
- Stamina
- Coordination
- Dexterity
- Ability to work at height and within enclosed spaces
The tests will consist of:
Ladder climb
Candidates wear a safety harness and ascend a 13.5-metre ladder and take a leg-lock (where a leg is wrapped around the side of a ladder). They are then asked to lean backwards and outstretch their arms to the sides, then whilst looking over their shoulder they must say out loud what object is being shown by the assessor on the ground. This will test confidence at height.
Enclosed space assessment
Candidates will put on a facemask with un-obscured vision. They will make their way through a crawl and walkway. Once inside the crawl/walkway, they have their vision obscured and return to the start. This will test confidence, agility, and stamina.
Drill ground assessment
Candidates are required to complete a series of tasks that simulate firefighting activities such as carrying equipment, running out hose and casualty evacuation, all within a set time. This is a test of physical fitness.
Ladder lift exercise
Candidates are required to lift a bar which replicates the head of a large fire service ladder from a height of 75cm to a height of 182cm. The cradle is loaded with 15kg but including the weight of the equipment, the total is approximately 25kg. This is a test of strength.
Dexterity assessment
Candidates will be required to demonstrate tying a recognised fire service knot and coupling and un-coupling a piece of hose reel tubing. This is a test of dexterity and co-ordination.