Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
The Somerset Fire and Rescue Service requires new recruits to undergo fitness assessments as part of the recruitment process. Below is some information about the fitness requirements and standards. This information is presented for discussion and may be out of date - for the latest information see official sources. See also other UK Fire Departments.
Assessment Tests
(The following information was retrieved in June 2007)
Specific job related tests are given such as written and aptitude tests, and physical and fitness tests which must be passed before proceeding to interview. The fitness tests that are conducted are very specific to the job required, and include the following:
- Multistage Fitness Test / bleep test — a pass mark of level 8, shuttle 4
- Hose Running - a test of dexterity, stamina and coordination. This test will involve 25m lengths of 70 mm hose to be rolled out and returned in a set time.
- Ladder Climb Test - a test for compatibility with working at heights, and will involve locking the legs allowing both arms to be free.
- Ladder Extend Test - a test of arm and grip strength. The test simulates extending the 13.5m ladder that is used extensively within the service.
- Dead lift simulator - device which tests lower back and leg strength and is set at 50 kg.
- Enclosed Space Test - a test of confidence, agility and will identify claustrophobic tendencies. The candidate dons breathing apparatus (BA), facemask and negotiates a crawl and walkway with vision obscured.
Two tests are now not included, the Back and leg pull test using a Dynamometer (due to possible risks through poor technique) and the Hand Grip Test (as grip strength is taken into account during the ladder extension)
Related Tests
- Chester Treadmill Test — a walking multistage treadmill test of aerobic capacity, developed by Professor Kevin Sykes from the University of Chester, specifically developed for the Fire Service of England and Wales.
Related Pages
- See also other UK Fire Departments.
- See the pages on fitness testing for: Navy, Army, Air Force, Law Enforcement (Police), and general forces tests.
- Poll: Should women have the same fitness testing standards as men?
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