Our fitness tests
As part of the recruitment process you will have a number of physical tests:
Shuttle Run (Bleep Test) - This is an assessment of fitness and determination. Candidates run between two points 20m apart at a progressively faster rate. The minimum entry level for Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service is level 8.8
If you pass the bleep test, you'll continue on to:
Ladder climb - This is a test of confidence whilst working at height. Candidates must ascend a ladder and take a leg lock. Then lean back with arms outstretched look over their shoulder and identify a number shown below. Untimed.
Ladder extension and Lower - This is a test of upper body strength. Candidates must be able to fully extend and lower the 9m ladder and lower a 13.5 m ladder. Untimed.
Ladder lift - This is a test of upper and lower body strength. Candidates must safely lift and lower a bar with a 15kg weight, above a point 1.9m off the ground. Untimed.
Enclosed space - This is a test of confidence, agility and possible claustrophobia whilst working in an enclosed space. Candidates must negotiate a crawling gallery whilst wearing a breathing apparatus mask. Half the test will be with clear vision and half the test will be with obscured vision. This is a timed test.
Equipment assembly - This is a test of manual dexterity. Candidates must assemble and then disassemble items of equipment. This is a timed test.
Equipment carry and Reach - This is a test of upper and lower body strength. Candidates must be able to reach a piece of equipment from a locker and carry a series of equipment up and down a course between cones that are 20m apart. This is a timed test.