Unit 4: Selection and Crime Scene Process

The Physical Ability Test

Most agencies administer some form of physical test. These tests also underwent review for job relatedness and discrimination against certain groups of applicant, particularly women, and many were declared invalid. Today, these tests range from simply determining that an applicant has the ability to grip a handgun and squeeze the trigger a certain number of times, to exams that test for aerobic condition, strength, and flexibility.

Agencies that want to be sure their physical testing is defensible should be sure that it is testing for physical tasks required by the job; that candidates are aware of the components of the test; and, that the test is administered fairly.