Sarikei firemen after undergoing the IPPT.
SARIKEI: Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) is a mechanism to gauge the fitness level of firemen.
According to District Fire and Rescue Service (Bomba) chief Suna Kaha, the test which included a 2.4km run, 4 X 10m run, press ups, running, jumping-on-the-spot and other physical exercises is compulsory for all firemen, District Fire and Rescue Service (Bomba) chief.
Staff performance during the test was assessed in accordance with their age group, each having to attain a certain fitness level to pass the test.
During the first three months of this year, 15 personnel passed the test, six failed and one was absent on medical ground.
Two of them from category Y1 (30–34 years) passed with excellent marks; seven including two from Z category (35–39); one from Z1 category (40–44); two from V category and one from V1 category (50–54) passed with good marks and six others just managed a pass, he disclosed.
Six who failed were required to improve themselves during the next test as action would be taken against those who failed the IPPT three consecutive times, he said.
The test was supposed to be conducted twice a year but they arranged for it to be held on a monthly basis as recommended by state Bomba, said Suna who thought the monthly test appropriate to remind the staff they need to stay fit at all times.
“Firemen need to be fit to perform up to expectations in any major operation,” he said.