Physical Examination Requirements

Chapter 4

  Section 2- Physical Examination Requirements

1. Academies shall have a policy for insuring the physical fitness of students assigned for entry-level training.
   1. ​The policy shall include a procedure for ensuring that agency medical personnel performing physical examinations are aware of the rigors of entry-level training. 
   2. The policy shall require physicals to be performed within twelve months prior to training.
       
2. The following are the major points that need to be considered when developing a physical examination policy.
   1. A statement requiring the trainee candidate to be examined by a licensed physician prior to attending training.
   2. Training parameters developed to the specific certified criminal justice training academy's program which is forwarded to the employing agency. In turn the agency will provide the requirements to the examining physician.
   3. A statement to be forwarded by the employing agency to the certified criminal justice training academy indicating the trainee has been examined by a licensed physician and is physically capable of performing all training required.
       
3. Training Parameter Requirements:
   1. These requirements shall include the basic minimum requirements for entry-level training, and the parameters for training that the individual certified criminal justice training academy has established beyond minimum standards.
      
      1. It shall also be noted that part of the training is performance-based and that the recruit will be required to actually perform many of the functions required in the position for which he/she is entering training.  
      2. This includes training that places recruits in both physically and mentally stressful situations designed to elicit spontaneous responses. 
   2.  As a result, the employing agency shall ensure that the examining physician makes sure the recruit is physically sound and free of any physical or mental condition which would interfere with his/her ability to perform the duties of the position for which he/she is entering training.  
   3. The academy director or employing agency administrator shall distinguish which category of officer the recruit will fall under:  Law Enforcement Officer, Jailor/Custodial Officer, Courtroom Security or Civil Process Officer.
   4. Parameters for Law Enforcement Officer, Jailor/Custodial Officer, or Courtroom Security or Civil Process Officer
      
      1. Training is both physically and psychologically stress oriented to elicit spontaneous reactions.  Students are placed in situations where they must make critical life and death decisions such as: when to use deadly force, shoot/no-shoot situations, disaster response, ambush and sniper attacks, domestic violence and response to various in-progress criminal activities. Any psychological abnormalities observed during the physical exam shall be explored and thoroughly documented. Strenuous physical exercise requiring:
         1. ) Physical agility 
         2. ) Strength
         3. ) Musculoskeletal range of motion (to include joints) 
         4. ) Neuro-muscular coordination, hand-eye coordination and balance 
         5. ) Cardiopulmonary stamina and aerobic endurance
      2.  Additionally the officer must have the physical ability to fire a handgun and/or other specialty weapons.  The student shall have no physical deformity, defect or restriction which would prevent cocking and firing of a handgun or other specialty weapon.  Firearms training requires the student to fire from the standing, kneeling, sitting and prone positions.  Combat ranges require mobility and the use of various barriers.  Both day and night training are required. 
      3. Vision: requirements set by employing agency to include:
         1. ) Color distinction 
         2. ) Night vision
         3. ) Depth of field/peripheral 
      4. Hearing: requirements as set by employing agency.
          
4. A physical examination certification shall be signed by the physician and returned to the certified criminal justice training academy via the employing agency prior to any recruit being eligible to participate in training.  This form shall include the physician's name, candidate's name, date of exam, candidate's position, and whether he/she is or is not able to participate in training.  If applicable, any restrictions shall be specified by the physician.