9. Physical Competence Test (PCT)
Applicants are expected to be aerobically fit in order to safely undergo training and to subsequently carry out the duties assigned to them. There is strictly no deviation from the format of the test. Failure to maintain the levels of fitness required during all phases of training will be a breach of their contract and constitute a termination of contract.
Applicants will be required to undergo a Physical Competence Test. A demonstration video and detailed information regarding the Physical Competence Test are available on the Garda website
https://www.garda.ie/en/Careers/Why-should-I-join-An-Garda-Siochana-/What-are-the-physical-requirements-.html.
An Garda Sh has a derogation under Part 5 of the Disability Act 2005.
10. Medical Examination
Subject to undergoing a comprehensive screening process by the Public Appointments Service to establish their general suitability and successfully completing the Physical Competence Test (PCT), applicants shall also be required to undergo a detailed medical examination by a Registered Medical Practitioner nominated by the Commissioner of An Garda Sh.
Where candidates are aware of suffering from any current or pre-existing health condition(s), it would be NECESSARY to have available relevant clinical reports from your treating doctor(s) on the day. This shall expedite the medical assessment process and hence the progress of your application. Candidates shall be required to provide contact details for their doctors on the day to facilitate communications as necessary.
General medical requirements are as follows:
A good standard of general mental and physical health (full disclosure of medical history is necessary and shall be reviewed as part of the medical examination).
Weight within normal (non-underweight and non-obese) limits (ideal BMI is 18.5 to less than 25). Underweight (BMI <18.5) and overweight (BMI >25 and <30) shall be considered with other measures to exclude significant weight abnormalities.
Eyesight - good levels of vision (minimum distance vision of 6/18 on both eyes that can be corrected to 6/9 and 6/12 with glasses or contact lenses if necessary).
Hearing - good level of hearing without a hearing aid.
The following tests shall also be carried out on the day:
Eyesight test – An unaided eyesight test will be carried out on the day (glasses/lenses to be removed one hour prior to testing)
Hearing test – air conduction audiogram (unaided i.e. testing without hearing aid)
Urine testing for routine clinical screen
Manual peak flow reading
Blood pressure and pulse check
No blood tests will be taken on the day.
Current, pre-existing and previous medical and mental health conditions may be a bar to meeting the required medical fitness standards but this shall be assessed on a case-by-case basis by the examining doctor; this may require provision of additional reports or clarifications from the applicant‟s treating doctors.
