CPAT
CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test)
CPAT
Starting in 2013 the Muscatine Fire Department will begin utilizing the Candidate Physical Ability Test for it’s hiring process.
The Fire Service Joint Labor Management Wellness / Fitness Initiative Candidate Physical Ability Test© consists of 8 separate events. The CPAT is a sequence of events requiring the candidate to progress along a predetermined path from event to event in a continuous manner. This test was developed to allow Fire Departments a means for obtaining pools of trainable candidates who are physically able to perform essential job tasks at fire scenes.
Preparation
CPAT Video
The candidate will be given a total time of 10 minutes and 20 seconds to complete the CPAT test. This is a pass/fail test.
During the 8 events the candidate will be required to wear a 50 pound vest, simulating the weight of the firefighter’s SCBA and protective clothing. During the stair climb which is the first even an additional 25 pounds will be added to the vest to simulate carrying a hose pack up stairs. The 25 pounds is made up of a 12 1/2 pound weight added to each shoulder.
Throughout all events, the participant must wear long pants, and footwear with no open heel or toe. Watches and loose or restrictive jewelry are not permitted.
The events are staged in sequence that best simulates fire scene events. Between each event there will be and 85 foot walk. The walk will allow you about 20 seconds of recover time between events.
During the test 2 stop watches will be used to insure scoring accuracy. They will be set at the 10 minute 20 second pass/fail mark. If the candidate fails to complete all the events in the 10 minute 20 second time frame the candidate fails the test.
CPAT Testing
CPAT testing for Muscatine Fire Department will be held at Station 2 located at 2124 Stewart Road, Muscatine, IA. CPAT Orientation – Thursday 3/28/2024 at 6:00 p.m. or Saturday 3/30/2024 at 9:00 a.m. CPAT Practice Test – Thursday 4/25/2024 at 6:00 p.m. or Saturday 4/27/2024 at 9:00 a.m. (Candidates who pass the practice test do not need to report for the final test) CPAT Final test Thursday 5/30/2024 at 6:00 P.M. or Saturday 6/1/2024 at 9:00 A.M. Each candidate passing the CPAT will be given a link to take the written test online at a date to be determined.
Test Forms
Prior to taking the CPAT, each candidate must present valid identification, sign a number of forms, complete a waiver and release form and a sign-in form. Candidates are provided an opportunity to review a video detailing the CPAT and the failure points. It is the candidate’s responsibility to ask questions if any part of the test events or procedures are not understood. At the conclusion of the CPAT, the candidate must sign the CPAT Evaluation Form and complete and sign the Rehabilitation Form. Failure to complete and sign any of these forms results in failure of the CPAT.