The Work Capacity Test examines a person’s capability to perform wildland fire duties. There are three work capacity ratings, arduous, moderate, and light, that correspond to differing levels of physical fitness anticipated for differing roles, as described in the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1.
Arduous
Arduous duty field work requires above-average endurance and superior conditioning. Duties may include an occasional demand for extraordinarily strenuous activity in emergency situations under adverse environmental conditions over extended periods. The pace of work typically is set by the emergency condition. Essential functions include, but are not limited to: running, walking or hiking, climbing, jumping, twisting, bending, lifting more than 50 pounds, and carrying 45 pounds or more for extended periods over difficult terrain.
Moderate
Moderate duty field work requires the average endurance and conditioning of an individual who possesses complete control of all their physical faculties. Occasional demands may be required for moderately strenuous activities in emergencies over long periods. The pace of work is usually set by the current environmental conditions. Essential functions include, but are not limited to: considerable walking over irregular ground, standing for long periods, lifting 25 to 50 pounds, climbing, bending, stooping, squatting, twisting, and reaching.
Light
Light duty mainly involves office-type work with occasional field activity characterized by light physical exertion requiring basic good health. Individuals almost always can govern the extent and pace of their physical activity. Essential functions include, but are not limited to: climbing stairs, standing, operating a vehicle, and long hours of work, as well as some bending, stooping, or light lifting.
Work Capacity Test Options
| Work Capacity Rating | Arduous | Moderate | Light |
| Test Name | Pack Test | Field Test | Walk Test |
| Pack Weight | 45lbs | 25lbs | None |
| Distance | 3 miles | 2 miles | 1 mile |
| Time Limit | 45 minutes | 30 minutes | 16 minutes |
The Work Capacity Tests are conducted on flat ground, generally paved. You must walk – not run. If you do the math the arduous and moderate tests both require a 4 mile per hour pace. That’s faster than you may be accustomed to, particularly when carrying a pack. I strongly recommend you start preparing for your WCT well in advance and work up to the pace, distance, and weight.
Punches’ Recommendation regarding Work Capacity Rating
Since we work in an academic and research environment, I get lots of questions on which rating and test will be appropriate for individuals. My recommendation is that, if you anticipate working on or near the fire-line (wildland or prescribed), attempt the arduous rating. If you’ll be doing support, advisory, pre- or post-fire research roles attempt the moderate rating. If you have physical or medical limitations that make it unwise for you to attempt the moderate rating, attempt to meet the light rating. If you’ll be working on a federal forest, obtain direction from that forest regarding its requirements.
College of Forestry WCT Details
For Work Capacity Tests conducted through the College of Forestry program you’ll be asked to provide your own pack, and I don’t limit your pack options. Select one that is comfortable and carries the weight well. (The pack’s weight will be part of the total weight.) Weight lifting weights, full water bottles, bags of gravel and similar make good weights to get you to the test’s target.
You do NOT need to wear wildland fire PPE for the WCT. You can dress for the environment and wear any footwear that allows you to complete the physical test successfully and safely.
How often do I need to take the WCT?
Most agencies will accept a Work Capacity Test rating that has been completed within the last year. Most fire personnel take the test in the early spring before their fire season starts.
What happens if I miss taking the WCT?
I offer the work capacity test at least twice per year at OSU, and offer the test off campus for other groups – so if you need to take the WCT drop me a note and I’ll do my best to accommodate you. You may also be able to obtain the WCT from federal or state agencies, The Nature Conservancy, community colleges that teach fire, or a rural fire department.
Note that missing the annual refresher and/or WCT does NOT invalidate your wildland fire qualifications; those qualifications just go inactive until you complete the RT-130 including the WCT.
