Fit to Climb Medical Every Year

Duration

1.0 Days

Course Code

SOFC3

Course Requirements

N/A

Ratio of Trainers to Trainees

1 to 1

 

Introduction

The medical fitness requirement  applies to anyone whose duties require them  to work at heights.  Working at height is defined as where there is a risk of a fall liable to cause  personal injury.  Where the risk of a fall cannot be eliminated by equipment for working at  height e.g. guardrails, platforms, rope access or other measures to minimise the distance and  consequences of a fall should one occur.  

PLEASE SEE ASSESSMENT GUIDE IN THE DOWNLOAD SECTION

Examination frequency

40-49 years old            -Examination every 2 years

50 and over                 - Examination every year

The Chester Step Test (CST) is designed to measure aerobic capacity, giving a good  indication of Cardio Respiratory Fitness.

This test is used for both climbers and rooftop workers due to the nature of the work. Even  though roof top work is not as physical as climbing and rescue duties it can involve climbing

ladders which to some people can be quite exhaustive.

The step is no higher than 30cm and requires the candidate to manage their body weight in a  controlled way.  The test is progressive, starting with a very slow step rate of 15 steps per  minute, which increases gradually every 2 minutes.  The test is sub maximal and finishes when

the candidate’s heart rate reaches 80% of its maximum, or their perceived exertion, self rated,  as moderately hard.  The maximum length of time is 10 minutes for the whole test at which

stage the candidate would be stepping at a rate of 35 steps per minute.

Obviously the heart rate is monitored throughout and if the examiner has any concerns then  the test will be stopped.

Blood pressure and medical history are checked before the test begins and if blood pressure is  too high e.g. 180/100 the test will not be performed without a note from the GP stating the

candidate is fit to perform the physical exercise.  Also a note is required from a GP for certain  other medical conditions.  If unsure then please discuss with your GP and bring a note to say  you are medically okay to perform the test.

The following areas shall be examined:

1. General health

2. Vision

3. Hearing

4. Physical stamina and strength( Step test)

5. Body Mass

6. General balance and flexibility

7. Neurological disorders including epilepsy 

 

The examiner will pay special attention to the following:

1. Diabetes

2. Sleep disorders

3. Cardiovascular system / Cardio respiratory fitness

4. Medication 

 

Personnel may not be permitted to work at heights if theyaresuffering from any of the

following medical conditions:

. vertigo

. acrophobia

. impaired limb function

. alcohol or drug dependence

N/A

If you would like to take the course of a date not shown please get in touch to organise a training day to suit your company.

Please contact us on 01524 736510 or email us on info@xitraining.co.uk.