WA Firefighter Recruitment PATS Test
WA Firefighter PATS Test and PWCA
( Physical Work Capacity Assessment )
I have had a large number of requests come in lately in regards to the DFES Firefighter Recruitment process and in particular the Physical Aptitude Test or the Physical Work Capacity Assessment.
I have listed a brief list of what you need to consider including a few tips so if you are looking at a firefighter job with WA Fire Service this is a must read for you.
This is not an exhaustive list including everything in exact order etc it is more of a guide including the main differences you may encounter as opposed to other fire services around Australia.
- Under-run ladder multiple times
- Ladder from pumper to ground and multiple 5times
- Don BA Set multiple times
- Stair / Tower Climb + Container Haul Approximately 20kg
- Get in and out of the pumper multiple times
- Ship water hydrant & show water multiple times
- 70kg Dummy Drag
- Hold rescue cutters at three different levels – simulate a cut on a vehicle
- Coupling dexterity and matching
- Tunnel Crawl / anxiety test – you will be given a code to remember and put through a tunnel system with some tight areas as well as having a BA mask on your face with the regulator removed
- Tool carry exercise
- Driving test – refer to my article on DFES driving test – may be useful to brush up on basic road rules etc.
5 Common Mistakes Candidates Make During the PATS Test And How to Avoid Them
1. Poor Preparation for Specific Tasks
Many candidates assume general fitness is enough to pass the PATS Test. It is not. The DFES tasks — such as the tunnel crawl, heavy dummy drag, and tool carries — demand task-specific conditioning, not just running or gym workouts.
How to Avoid It
Focus your training around the actual tasks. Fire Recruitment Australia’s Membership Program provides targeted physical preparation strategies, ensuring that every exercise you do translates directly into better performance on test day.
2. Underestimating the Tunnel Crawl
The confined space tunnel crawl is not just about fitness but also about mental calmness under pressure. Many candidates panic inside the tunnel, forget their code, or freeze, which can lead to instant failure.
How to Avoid It
Practise controlled breathing techniques and mentally rehearse tunnel environments beforehand. When training through Fire Recruitment Australia’s tailored programs, members also receive tips on staying calm during anxiety-triggering tasks like the tunnel crawl.
3. Failure to Listen Carefully to Instructions
Candidates often get caught not because they are physically incapable, but because they misunderstand simple instructions, particularly during coupling tasks, ladder movements, or tool handling exercises.
How to Avoid It
Listen carefully to the instructions, repeat them internally, and stay composed. Rushing can cause even minor missteps, which can be costly.
4. Not Pacing Yourself Effectively
Another frequent error is candidates starting too hard at the beginning and burning out before completing the whole series of physical tasks.
How to Avoid It
Treat the PATS Test as a marathon, not a sprint. Train for endurance under load, and develop a steady, sustainable pace — something Fire Recruitment Australia’s fitness preparation programs are specifically designed to help you master.
5. Ignoring Upper Body Strength Requirements
Some applicants underestimate the upper-body endurance needed for hauling, tool holds, and dragging. Leg strength alone will not get you through.
How to Avoid It
Incorporate functional strength training into your preparation: think carries, pulls, and overhead holds rather than just running or lifting heavy weights.
Make sure you listen to and follow instructions given carefully
For the tunnel crawl stay calm, listen to instructions and ensure you remember the code you get given
I hope this helps you on your way through the firefighter recruitment process with DFES.
Be sure to ask me any questions, leave a comment or share via social media.
Cheers,
Brent
