OBJECTIVE
The aim of this paper was to describe an approach to implementing and integrating physical employment standards into an organisational procedure, to ensure the safe and effective supervision of physical fitness of workers in a physically demanding occupation, using a real-world example.
METHODS
Using previously published cardiorespiratory, muscular strength and endurance physical demands data from UK firefighters, a process to manage all levels of physical capability was developed with industry stakeholders.
RESULTS
Performance standards and associated cut-scores relating to acceptable, uncertain, and unacceptable job performance, using a traffic-light style process, were agreed by stakeholders to ensure the safe and effective management of incumbent's physical fitness.
CONCLUSIONS
This paper describes the processes involved in implementing a physical capability management procedure, for the administration of routine in-service physical employment standards and tests in the UK Fire & Rescue Service.