If you successfully complete the written tests, physical tests
and interview, you are required to complete a medical assessment
with our Occupational Health provider.
Along with a general examination, you will undergo the following
tests:
- Vision (including colour)
- Hearing
- Lung function
- Cardio fitness (step test, minimum standard of 35
VO2)
- Grip strength
- Co-ordination and flexibility test
- Urine test
You will need to wear suitable clothing and trainers to complete
the tests.
Regarding eyesight, soft contact lenses are allowed, as long as
you are able to wear them for long periods of time and when you are
sleeping. Current medical guidance recommends that applicants who
have had laser surgery to correct their vision should wait
12-months post operative to confirm their vision competency for an
operational role.
Regarding cardio fitness and VO2, information about improving
your fitness in preparation for your medical assessment can be
found in our
guidance on physical training.
The medical standards are set out by the Department of
Communities and Local Government (DCLG), however it is the
responsibility of each fire and rescue service to make a judgement
on fitness and capability for the role.
With this in mind, we do not automatically exclude an
individual with a disability, for example asthma or diabetes, but
would consider each case on its merits. In these
cases the medical takes place following the written tests,
before the physical tests and interview, for practicality and
to further consider feasible reasonable adjustments and
capability.
More information on fitness can be found at www.fireservice.co.uk (this
link takes you to an external website, unrelated to AF&RS). It
is important to note that each fire and rescue service has its
own medical and fitness standards.