The fire department’s plan to hire more women… makes the tests of strength easier

The test of strength for firefighters should be eased in the way to attract more women.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service is downsizing strength test in the recruiting process after discovering his scales were 17 kg (38 lbs) lighter than previously thought.

The move is expected to result in an increase in numbers Firefighters who join the serviceas the shoulder press element had previously failed many female candidates.

It also meant that some applicants who physically able to be firefighters were unfairly excluded.

Weight change

Candidates were previously asked to perform a 35kg (77lbs) shoulder press, which was interpreted as confirmation that they were capable of lifting ladders used in firefighting.

However, the shoulder pressure has now been reduced to 30 kg (66 lbs) to reflect the new registered ladder weight. They actually weigh 96 kg (211 lbs) instead of 113 kg (249 lbs) as stated by their supplier.

The decision to change the shoulder pressure threshold was made on October 5 to align with the National Fire Chiefs Council’s recommendations for physical fitness tests, which advise lifting 30kg.

Lifting the ladder overhead

Karen Shiel, Human Resources Manager at Avon Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The ladder is lifted by four firefighters and they need to be able to lift the ladder above their heads to stow it on top of the fire apparatus.

“The shoulder press test used in the selection process is designed to replicate this lift to ensure that the candidate can safely lift the required weight.”

She added: “There are additional factors to consider, including the potential for firefighters to be fatigued at the end of an operational incident and allowance for the different heights of each of the firefighters performing the lift, as this affects the even weight distribution of the ladder when it is raised .

“After extensive research, it has been agreed that the weight in the selection tests can be reduced from 35kg to 30kg with immediate effect. The same test is used for all candidates.”

Ms Shiel said the service had been working with people who had failed previous recruitment campaigns to help them meet the standard for the next campaign and would consider contacting female candidates who had previously failed the strength test.