Fee
$212.00 plus HST
Preparation resources are available through the Pre-Assessment Guides.
Stage Three Assessment
Firefighter Physical Aptitude Job-Related Tests (FPAT)
The Firefighter Physical Aptitude Job-Related Tests (FPAT) consist of six sequential job-related tests that evaluate an individual’s ability to complete the essential physical demands of structural firefighting.
All six FPAT tests must be completed safely, correctly, and within the prescribed time limits while wearing full personal protective equipment weighing approximately 23 kg (51 lb).
The Firefighter Physical Aptitude Job-Related Tests (FPAT) do not evaluate technical competency; therefore, candidates complete a mandatory familiarization session immediately before the assessment. This standardized walk-through allows you to practise each test, understand the procedures, and complete a suitable warm-up before timing begins.
The tests are performed in full personal protective equipment (PPE) that weighs approximately 23 kg (51 lb), depending on size. This ensemble includes a helmet, flash hood, leather work gloves, coveralls, pants, boots, jacket, safety harness, and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). You carry the SCBA but you are not on air.
An unsuccessful FPAT result reflects an inability to complete the assessment safely and at an acceptable pace, rather than unfamiliarity with the task sequence.
Stage Three at a glance
Key Firefighter Physical Aptitude Job-Related Tests (FPAT) requirements before you book
This section summarizes the operational expectations, candidate responsibilities, and pass conditions candidates should understand before attending the Firefighter Physical Aptitude Job-Related Tests (FPAT).
Warm-up
Mandatory familiarization session
Every candidate completes a standardized walk-through immediately before the timed assessment.
Equipment
Full PPE is provided
Candidates may not use their own PPE for this assessment, with the exception of gloves that meet the required criteria.
Rest periods
Three minutes between each test
Each of the six FPAT tests is followed by a rest period of exactly three minutes. PPE must remain on and you may not leave the testing area.
Pass condition
All six tests must be passed
To achieve a pass, all six tests must be completed safely, correctly, and within the prescribed time. If one test is failed, the assessment ends immediately.
Certificate validity
Valid for 12 months
Successful completion of the FPAT results in one certificate that is valid for 12 months.
Six sequential events
The six FPAT tests and their required time standards
The following six job-related tests are completed in sequence and timed independently. All six tests must be passed to achieve a successful Stage Three FPAT result.
Test 1
Equipment Carry / Vehicle Extrication
3 minutes and 45 seconds or less
You carry a 20 kg tool and then a 36 kg tool to designated points 15 m away, then complete the vehicle extrication hold sequence with the smaller tool on three contact discs for 30 seconds each before returning both tools to the start.
Test 2
Charged Hose Advance
27 seconds or less
You pick up a nozzle connected to three lengths of charged 44 mm hose and advance it 30 m while walking as quickly as possible. Running is not permitted.
Test 3
Weighted Sled Pull
1 minute and 50 seconds or less
You pull a weighted sled using a static rope over 15.24 m, walk forward, and repeat the pull sequence three times without moving your feet during each pull.
Test 4
Forcible Entry Simulation
19 seconds or less
You pick up a 4.5 kg sledge hammer and strike the mechanically braked target surface of the forcible entry apparatus until the buzzer sounds.
Test 5
Victim Rescue
57 seconds or less
You drag a mannequin weighing approximately 83 kg through a serpentine obstacle course, around a cone at 15 m, and back to the start line without touching the cones.
Test 6
Ladder Climb
1 minute and 37 seconds or less
You climb up and down 10 rungs of a 7.2 m ladder five times, maintaining three points of contact and climbing rung by rung without skipping rungs.
Important notes regarding the FPAT assessment
Please refrain from eating large meals or consuming large amounts of liquid at least 2 to 3 hours before this assessment. Do not drink coffee, caffeine, energy drinks, or alcoholic beverages for 12 hours before your evaluation, as they can elevate blood pressure and heart rate and leave you unable to pass pre-screening.
Delays may occur at any stage of testing; therefore, candidates should arrive prepared with food and water if needed throughout the day. For the purposes of the FPAT assessment, only a small snack and water are recommended if required. Avoid all exercise within 4 hours of the evaluation and avoid intense exercise within 24 hours of testing.
If you are also booked for a Stage Three Firefighter Technical Skills assessment, you are still expected to proceed to that assessment regardless of your outcome on the Firefighter Physical Aptitude Job-Related Tests.