Physical Ability Test for Probationary Emergency Medical Technician Applicants

Physical Ability Test for Probationary Emergency Medical Technicians

All applicants for Probationary Emergency Medical Technician must complete all seven skills stations of the physical ability test. Each station tests a different combination of job-related skills. Each applicant will be timed separately as he/she performs the test. The overall time is a key component of the applicant's overall consideration in the hiring process.

Station 1 -- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

The applicant must kneel beside a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) mannequin and perform chest compressions for five minutes. This station is pass/fail only. All applicants must successfully complete this station.

Station 2 -- Ladder Climb The ladder climb is one of seven stations on the physical ability test.

Applicants must climb -- one rung at a time -- a 24-foot, pre-thrown, secured ladder using the hand-over-hand method. Applicants will climb all the way to the top and back down again, using the same method. They must complete this task once.

The station is pass/fail only. All applicants must successfully complete this station.

Stations 3 to 7

Applicants are timed continuously from Station 3 through Station 7. Applicants are not permitted to run at any time; instead, they are encouraged to maintain a brisk pace. Applicants may rest at any time during the testing. However, the time taken for rest periods will be reflected in the applicant's overall score.

Station 3 -- Mannequin Drag
Applicants must drag a 160-pound mannequin by the attached straps for 75 feet along a pre-set course, back to its starting point. They must complete this task once.
Station 4 -- Stair Climb
Applicants must carry a 20-pound oxygen bag up a flight of stairs and back down.
Station 5 -- Object Carry
Applicants must carry a 25-pound EMS equipment bag up a flight of stairs and back down. Resting is permitted at the top of the stairs only.
Station 6 -- Stretcher Simulation
Applicants must guide a weighted stretcher in an upright position 150 feet, with help from a silent partner. This simulates the movements necessary to operate a patient stretcher. Applicants also will be required to raise and lower a 50-pound container (with handles) three feet off the ground.
Station 7 -- Object Assembly Exercise
This exercise tests the manual dexterity required to perform delicate tasks after physical exertion. Applicants must assemble and disassemble four pairs of nuts and bolts of various sizes.

Physical Ability Test Waiver Form

You must have a Physical Ability Test Waiver Form (PDF), signed by your doctor, in order to take the physical ability test. Download and print the Physical Ability Waiver form. Be sure to allow your doctor enough time to complete this form.

Applicants who fail to bring a completed and signed Physical Ability Waiver with them to the physical ability test will not be allowed to participate in the test.

Revised March 13, 2009