Chapter 21: ARFFS Medical/Physical Fitness

Section 21.1: General

21.1.1 Standard: Medical Standards for ARFFS Recruitment

21.1.1.1 Before beginning initial training, prospective candidates must pass a medical examination. CASA’s Aviation Medical Certificate Class 2 is the minimum standard.

21.1.1.2 ARFFS staff must take into account their obligations under OH&S and the responsibilities under Duty of Care and notify their employer of any existing medical condition that would adversely affect their ability to perform ARFFS duties.

21.1.2 Medical requirements for ARFFS staff

21.1.2.1 All staff must ensure that they maintain a continued level of medical and physical fitness to enable them to perform at the level required for their function.

21.1.2.2 ARFFS staff must take into account their obligations under OH&S and the responsibilities under Duty of Care and notify their employer of any existing medical condition that would adversely affect their ability to perform ARFFS duties.

21.1.2.3 A physical fitness policy must be developed for all operational staff to maintain a continued level of medical and physical fitness to enable them to perform at the level required for their function.

21.1.2.4 A physical fitness test should be developed for prospective employees.

21.1.3 Fitness for Duty

21.1.3.1 A person must not act in any capacity for which the authority of the ARFFS Certificate of Competency as defined in this Manual is required if, by reason of having consumed, used or otherwise absorbed alcoholic liquor, a drug or pharmaceutical or medical preparation or other substance, the person’s capacity so to act is impaired.

21.1.3.2 ARFFS staff must be aware that certain medications can affect their ability to operate fire vehicles and associated fire fighting equipment. Staff must seek medical advice on the effect of any such medication on the level of performance of ARFFS functions.