The National Firefighter Physical Tests are known as Job Related Tests or JRTs and are part of the selection process.
Candidates are required to undertake physical tests which assess fitness levels, strength and manual dexterity as well as your level of confidence in exercises that simulate regular tasks involved in being a firefighter.
The majority of these examples have been provided by Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service and accurately reflect the same assessments Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service carries out.
Please be aware that these tests may vary slightly from time to time and candidates will be asked to complete a medical check prior to undertaking these tests. This is to ensure the tests can be carried out safely.
In each test candidates are given full instructions and will be required to complete them within a specified time limit.
Candidates will also be required to complete the tests wearing full personal protective clothing (PPE) which will be supplied and consists of a firefighter's helmet, over-trousers, tunic, boots and standard gloves.
*Please note that testing equipment may vary and the videos are an indication of what candidates can expect but do not mirror exact test conditions.
Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service has 6 JRTs.
- Ladder Climb
- Casualty Evacuation
- Ladder Lift
- Confined Space
- Equipment Assembly
- Equipment Carry
The ladder climb is a test of confidence whilst working at height.
An instructor will explain what is expected and demonstrate a 'leg lock' at ground level before commencing the test.
Wearing full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including a harness, candidates must demonstrate the correct ‘leg lock’ at ground level before commencing the test.
Candidates must then ascend a fully extended 13.5 metre ladder to approximately second storey height and demonstrate a ‘leg lock’ and lean back with arms outstretched and describe a symbol shown on the floor.
The candidate will then descend the ladder and safely dismount.
Video courtesy of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service
The casualty evacuation test requires combined upper/lower body strength along with co-ordination to complete the test within an allocated time frame.
To complete the test successfully candidates will need to complete the test within a specified time period.
The instructors will demonstrate the correct hold/lift technique and candidates wearing full fire kit, will be required to drag a 55kg casualty walking backwards (guided by an assessor) around a 30-metre course.
Video courtesy of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service
The ladder lift/lower simulation is a test of upper and lower body strength.
To complete the test successfully you will need to combine upper and lower body strength and co-ordination to lift the ladder to the required height and lower it safely under control,
The 200cm height of the test is the same height required for a ladder to be stored on an appliance.
To complete the enclosed space simulation test successfully you will need to combine confidence, agility and stamina to negotiate the crawl way within the specified time.
This is a test of confidence, agility and will identify claustrophobia due to the test being conducted in an enclosed space.
Candidates in full fire kit and wearing a breathing apparatus facemask will be required to negotiate a measured crawl way within a set time.
Half the route will be with clear vision and the other half with obscured vision and you will be required to perform a specific task during this test.
Candidates will then be fitted with a facemask which will obscure their vision and required to transport a small dummy through the crawl way.
There is only one way through crawl way which requires you to safely negotiate obstacles and changes in levels/direction. Any drop-down sections must be negotiated feet first.
Video courtesy of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service
The equipment assembly test is one that measures manual dexterity.
To complete the equipment assembly test successfully you will need to assemble and then disassemble - usually a portable pump unit - which consists of ten parts, and follow the diagrams provided within the specified time.
Prior to the commencement of your test the instructor will provide a demonstration and commentary of how to assemble and then disassemble the equipment. This is a test.
Once complete, you will need to disassemble the equipment in reverse order placing each item back in its designated position.
Video courtesy of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service
The equipment carry is the most failed test as it requires a combination of aerobic fitness, muscular strength and stamina.
While firefighters come in all ages, shapes and sizes, you do have to be physically fit, but a good technique can really help.
To complete the test successfully you will need to combine endurance, upper and lower body strength and coordination and complete the test within the specified time.
You will be carrying equipment over the length of a course, moving around two cones, which cover a distance of 25 metres, the assessor will guide you.
The items are laid out in the order which they are to be used and candidates will be required to:
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Drag a hose reel from an appliance for 25 metres, then jog back 25 metres
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Pick up and carry 2 coiled 70 mm hoses for 100 metres
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Carry 1 coiled 70 mm hose at chest height for 25 metres, and then jog back 75 metres
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Pick up and carry a 2.4 metre suction hose and basket strainer for 100 metres, then jog back 100 metres
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Pick up and carry a simulated ‘Light Portable Pump’ (this will be a barbell on the day) for 100 metres (weighing approximately 25kgs).
Video courtesy of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service
