Selection Process
Wholetime Firefighter
The current recruitment and selection process is outlined below;
- Online Application Form and Initial Shortlisting
- Online Ability Tests
- Practical Aptitude Tests
- Application Form Completion of Shortlisting
- Assessment/Initial Interview
- Final Interview
- Pre-Employment Checks
- Appointment.
The above process is subject to change. For accurate details please ensure you carefully read the candidate information pack for the recruitment process you are applying.
Practical Aptitude Tests
Firefighting can be intensely physically demanding and fitness is crucial to the role. Firefighters need to be able to meet required standards of fitness. You also need to maintain fitness throughout your career and will undergo regular fitness assessments to ensure you are fit to do the job.
As part of the selection process, you will need to pass all our work related fitness tests. We call these our PATs. The PATs assess if you can perform physical tasks as a Firefighter. They reflect the daily tasks of a Firefighter and assess your fitness, strength, manual dexterity, and confidence in simulated exercises.
The tests you will take are listed below:
Ladder Lift / Lower Simulation (Shoulder press)
This is a test of your upper body strength and coordination. You will need to raise the bar of a ladder lift simulator, weighing 30kgs to the height of a fire appliance.
This will provide you with an indication of your current level of strength and whether you will need to improve your strength level in order to carry out the role.
If you fail to successfully lift a minimum of 25kg on the Ladder Lift / Lower Simulation test. Your application will no longer be considered and you will be excluded from the process.
Breathing Apparatus & Enclosed Space
You will be required to follow a breathing apparatus guideline, to negotiate walk and crawl ways while wearing a breathing apparatus face mask. This tests confidence, agility and stamina.
Casualty Rescue
You will be tested on upper and lower body strength and coordination. You are required to drag a 55kg casualty backwards in a straight line of 30 metres.
You will need to complete the test safely, within a specified time period to be successful.
Equipment Carry
This physically tests your aerobic fitness, stamina, upper and lower body strength and coordination. You will need to carry items of equipment ranging from 3kg -25kg, over a 25 metre course within a specified time.
Candidates will have to cover the total distance of 550 metres in a set time.
This will involve:
- Run out a hose reel for 25 metres, place it down and then jog 25 metres back to the start position.
- Pick up and carry 2 coiled 70mm hoses (each weighing approx 16kg) for 100 metres (x4 25 metre lengths).
- Carry 1 coiled 70mm hose at chest height for 25 metres, place it down and then jog 75 metres (x3 25 metre lengths) back to the start position.
- Pick up and carry a 2.4 metre suction hose and basket strainer (total weight approx. 12kg) for 100 metres (x4 25 metre lengths) and place these down. Then run / jog 100 metres (x4 25 metre lengths) back to the start position.
- Pick up and carry a simulated light portable pump (a barbell weighing 25kgs) for 100 metres (x4 25 metre length).
These tests are similar to what you would do on the ground as a Firefighter.
Ladder Ascent / Descent
You will be require to climb a 13.5 metre ladder, to a marked point, take a leg lock, remove your hands from the ladder and look down, to identify a symbol held by an assessor at ground level, you then must safety descend the ladder to the ground level. This tests confidence while at heights
Consideration Prior to Participation in Exercise
Prior to adopting any of our fitness advice, please contact your GP if you have not participated in physical activity for some time.
If you are in any doubt about your health or physical ability to exercise please also consult your GP. To help reduce the risk of injury you should look to protect yourself by wearing appropriate clothing and footwear for the activity you are undertaking.
Health Assessment
Your pre-employment health assessment with our Occupational Health Practitioner will include the following:
- Medical questionnaire including medical history
- Hearing test
- Blood pressure check and urinalysis
- Eyesight test
- Colour perception test.
Medical Suitability
Medical suitability is determined by an individual assessment. The nature and effect of medical conditions vary and so it is not possible to confirm unacceptable medical conditions prior to assessment.
The individual assessment will involve due consideration of any opinions or medical reports you may wish to submit. However, the decision on the significance of any risks identified will rest with us.