Firefighters often work in extremely hazardous environments and we’re here to help nationally.
Fire fighters are often required to work in dynamic and hazardous environments involving a high level of uncertainty. All staff involved in firefighting are required to undertake a medical assessment before being asked to undergo a physical fitness test. The physical fitness tests have been designed after reviewing similar programs both overseas and in other states where scientists have studied firefighting.
“It is certainly very challenging, but our firefighters have approached the assessment in a positive manner as they see it as a way of further ensuring their personal safety.”
PHYSICAL
SENSORY
PSYCHOSOCIAL
Each fire service and employer sets its own medical and fitness standards, so requirements can differ between states and between career, volunteer and industrial brigades. Assessments generally consider cardiovascular and respiratory health, musculoskeletal fitness, vision, hearing and the ability to work long shifts in heat and smoke. Employees Health can provide periodic firefighter medicals onsite for brigades and site fire teams nationally.
Firefighting needs a high level of mobility, flexibility, strength and endurance, as well as the ability to tolerate heat, irregular meals and long shifts. A medical assessment is usually completed before a physical fitness test so that any heart, lung or musculoskeletal issues can be identified first.
These conditions are assessed case by case. A doctor may ask for a report from the treating specialist that addresses the person’s ability to do heavy physical work in a smoky or isolated environment. Many people can continue in operational roles where their condition is well controlled.
Firefighters can be exposed to smoke, combustion products and other hazardous substances, as well as heat stress and noise. Regular assessment helps pick up changes in lung function, hearing and cardiovascular health over time. It also supports decisions about fitness for duties such as breathing apparatus use.
A firefighter medical may include a medical and occupational history, cardiovascular and respiratory examination, lung function testing, vision and hearing checks, and a musculoskeletal assessment. The doctor may arrange further tests where indicated by history or findings.
