CPAT Testing During COVID-19

• The IAFF does not recommend conducting Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• CPAT testing is an elective fire department function and is not essential or mandatory based on a fire department’s emergency operations.

• Six-foot social distancing cannot be maintained during CPAT testing, putting members at risk of exposure (lead proctors are to remain 3 to 4-feet from candidates during testing for instructions during the test).

• The risk of COVID 19 exposure by members and candidates is increased from CPAT course equipment: step mill, hose sections, saws, ladders, interior of maze, rescue randy mannequin and personal protective equipment (PPE) used during testing by the candidate (helmet, gloves and weighted vests).