SOW_Attachment_4_AEA_AIA_MIA_TA_Manual_100214.pdf

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Office of Air and Marine (OAM) Candidate

Pre-employment Fitness Test Test Administrator Manual

2 Updated 06/24/2014

Background The primary mission of the Air Interdiction Agent (AIA), Marine Interdiction Agent (MIA), and Aviation Enforcement Agent (AEA) positions is to protect the American people and Nation's critical infrastructure by detecting, interdicting, and preventing acts of terrorism and the unlawful movement of people, illegal drugs and other contraband toward or across the borders of the United States. AIA/MIA/AEAs are part of the world’s largest law enforcement air & marine force that is deeply dedicated to protecting and securing our nations borders. The positions are physically demanding and require the candidate demonstrate his/her ability to meet the rigorous demands of training and the physical requirements of the position.

Purpose The Office of Air and Marine (OAM) Pre-employment Fitness Test (PFT-1) for AIA/MIA/AEA consists of a battery of physical tests designed to predict a candidate’s ability to successfully complete the pre-employment physical fitness requirements, meet the requirements of the Academy, and to perform the essential duties of the position. Consistent and proper administration of the test battery is a critical step in the pre-employment process and a requirement of all Test Administrators (TA).

This Test Administrator Manual provides the TA with the proper protocol for the OAM PFT-1. The protocol has been validated and must be followed at all times and in the proper order to ensure accurate, safe, and consistent administration of the PFT-1. It is imperative that all TAs receive adequate training and review this document in full prior to administering the OAM PFT-1.

Pre-Test Protocol On the day of testing, the TA shall complete the following steps prior to administering the PFT-1:

Step One. Set up all equipment needed to administer the PFT-1 including tape lines on the floor for the side step test (see Appendix E for illustration) prior to the candidate’s appointment.

Step Two. Confirm the identification of the candidate being tested by verifying the candidate’s government issued picture identification. Acceptable forms of identification include a passport, valid driver’s license, or other form of government issued identification.

If the candidate does not present valid government issued identification, DO NOT administer the PFT-1. Document the issues on the “Statement Regarding the OAM Fitness Test Failure” Section of the OAM Pre-employment Fitness Testing Score Sheet, Appendix A, and submit as required.

Step Three. Review the Candidate Health History Questionnaire (CHHQ), Appendix B. Only proceed if the candidate answered “no” to all questions. If a candidate answered “yes” to one or more questions, DO NOT administer the PFT-1 and inform the candidate that the Minneapolis Hiring Center (MHC) will contact them with further instructions. Document why the test was not administered on the “Statement Regarding the OAM Fitness Test Failure” Section of the OAM Pre-employment Fitness Testing Score Sheet and submit as required.

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Step Four. Take the candidate’s height and weight and record the results on the OAM Pre-employment Fitness Testing Score Sheet.

Step Five. Witness the candidate signing the Participant Waiver, Appendix C, and conduct the

PFT-1.

Materials Needed The following materials are needed to administer the OAM PFT-1:

Narrated CBP Officer Pre-employment Fitness Test - Test Administrator Audio

Exercise Mat

4” or 5” Foam Block (5” block is used for candidates 5 feet 9 inches or taller)

Stop Watch

Three sturdy tape lines, no more than two (2) inches wide, clearly and neatly adhered to the floor as follows (Appendix E):

o In the center of the testing area (dividing the area in half);

o 6 feet to the right of and parallel to the center line; and, o 6 feet to the left of and parallel to the center line.

One 12” high step bench, or one bench and enough risers to bring the bench to a height of exactly twelve (12) inches.

Other Requirements

1. For every PFT-1 administered, an Emergency Responder shall be onsite and available in case of emergency during the PFT-1. The Emergency Responder shall possess current CPR/AED and First Aid certifications by recognized organizations such as the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American Red Cross. The Emergency Responder shall ensure that the AED is maintained in accordance with manufacturer requirements and/or Federal law as applicable. The TA may serve as the Emergency Responder ONLY if they have the required certifications.

2. If at any time during the testing, the TA feels that the candidate is in danger of harming him/herself, the TA shall discontinue administering the test and clearly indicate the reason for stopping the test in the “Statement Regarding the OAM Fitness Test Failure” Section of the OAM Pre-employment Fitness Testing Score Sheet. The TA shall also complete a PFT-1 Injury/Accident/Incident Report Form (Appendix D) and submit to the Program Manager immediately after the incident is resolved, but no more than twenty-four (24) hours after the incident occurs.

3. The PFT-1 shall be conducted in an area with at least 25 feet by 25 feet of available space and a minimum ceiling height of eight (8) feet.

OAM Pre-employment Fitness Test (PFT-1)

The OAM PFT-1 is divided into two parts. Part 1 consists of three test components and Part 2 consists of one test component. The TA shall administer all components of each part in the following order:

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PART 1

The Push-Up Test is a timed test, requiring completion of as many proper form push-ups as possible in 60 seconds. The depth of the push-ups will be measured using a 4” or 5” foam block.

The Side Step Test is a timed test, requiring completion of as many outside line touches and center line crosses as possible in 10 seconds. Candidates are given two trials and the highest number of outside line touches and centerline crosses will be scored. Both trials shall be recorded on the score sheet. The candidate has the option to perform one (1) trial if the desired minimum was obtained in first trial. See Appendix E for illustrations.

The Sit-Up Test is a timed test, requiring completion of as many proper form sit-ups as possible in 60 seconds.

PART 2

The Step Test is a timed test requiring that the candidates step up on a twelve (12) inch high bench in cadence at a rate of 120 beats per minute.

OAM Pre-employment Fitness Test Requirements

PART ONE

Test Requirement Time Push-ups as many as possible 60 seconds

Side Step as many line crosses/touches as possible 10 seconds

Sit-ups as many as possible 60 seconds

PART TWO

Step Test 120 beats per minute 5 minutes

OAM Pre-employment Fitness Test - 1 Protocol

Part 1 The TA shall set up the testing area(s) prior to the candidate’s arrival. Part 1 of the OAM PFT-1 will be administered using the Narrated OAM Pre-employment Fitness Test – Test Administrator Audio at all times. Once the audio has begun, it should not be stopped for any reason (unless otherwise noted) until Part 1 of the PFT-1 has been completed in full. The audio has been developed to provide the candidate with all of the instructions needed to perform each test in Part 1 and includes timed 3-minute rest intervals. Any deviation from use of the audio and the testing protocol will result in a retest of the candidate. The test battery is administered in the following order.

Push-up Test

Instructions to the TA:

Instruct the candidate to assume the starting or “up position” with elbows straight and hands spaced shoulder width apart, with the thumbs aligned with the crease of the shoulder. The body must be kept in a straight line with feet no more than 8 to 12 inches

5 Updated 06/24/2014 apart. Once the candidate is in the “up position,” place the 4” or 5” foam block directly below the sternum/chest and hold it in position throughout the entire test.

Remind the candidate throughout the test to keep the body straight and to drop down until the sternum/chest touches the foam block. Maintaining a straight body, the candidate shall be instructed to push up until the elbows are straight. This completes one proper form push-up.

A candidate may rest in the up position only, but the time continues. At the end of 60 seconds, the audio will inform the candidate to stop.

Count proper form push-ups aloud as each are completed, and inform the candidate immediately if any push-ups are performed improperly.

The candidate must perform as many proper form push-ups as possible in 60 seconds.

The Push-Up Test shall be stopped:

o When 60 seconds have expired – OR – o If the candidate voluntarily stops the test – OR – o If the candidate’s knees touch the ground.

Record the number of proper form push-ups completed on the score sheet and allow the three (3) minute rest period.

Side Step Test

Have the candidate stand facing the TA with one foot on each side of the centerline.

Make sure the feet are parallel to the center line.

Have the candidate slide or side step to one side until the closest foot touches or crosses the outside line without crossing his/her feet. The candidate then slides or side steps in the other direction until the closest foot touches or crosses the other outside line. The candidate continues this action for 10 seconds attempting to touch or cross the outside lines as many times as possible in 10 seconds.

For a center line cross to count, both feet must have crossed the center line and be on the same side.

Review Appendix E for how to count the Side Step Test.

Two trials will be given. Allow the candidate 20 seconds to rest between trials. The candidate has the option to perform only one trial if the desired minimum was obtained in the first trial. If the candidate declines the second trial, allow the audio to continue to the start of the next test. Additionally, if the candidate missteps by crossing his/her feet in the first trial mark a zero (0) in first trial area of the score sheet and pause the audio.

Administer the second trial manually for ten seconds using the stopwatch. After the completion second trial, resume playing the audio.

If the candidate fails to maintain the proper positioning during the second trial, the score on that trial shall be marked zero (0) on the score sheet. The candidate shall not be given any further trials.

The audio will instruct the candidate when to start and stop.

The TA shall count aloud all line touches/crosses.

Each trial will stop:

o When 10 seconds have expired – OR –

6 Updated 06/24/2014 o If the candidate voluntarily stops the test – OR – o If the candidate fails to maintain proper positioning during a trial by crossing his/her feet.

Record the total number of touches/crosses properly completed on the score sheet and allow the three (3) minute rest period.

Sit-up Test

The audio will instruct the candidate to assume the starting or “down position” on his/her back with the knees bent and the hands crossed in front of the chest, shoulder blades touching the mat.

With the candidate’s knees bent at a 90-degree angle, the heels shall be 12 to 18 inches from the candidate’s buttocks.

The candidate is required to sit-up until the forearms touch the upper third of the thighs.

The candidate shall return to the starting position where the shoulder blades touch the mat to complete a full cycle.

A candidate may rest in the up position only, but the audio must continue at all times.

The audio will instruct the candidate when to start and stop.

The TA shall count aloud all proper form sit-ups. Inform the candidate immediately if he/she has displayed incorrect form, but encourage the candidate to continue until the time is up.

A Sit-up will not count if:

o The buttocks are raised – OR – o The arms/hands are used to get up from the down position to the up position –

OR –

o If the candidate fails to touch forearms to the upper third of the thighs – OR – o Shoulder blades do not touch the mat.

The Sit-Up Test will stop:

o When 60 seconds have expired – OR – o If the candidate voluntarily stops the test – OR – o If the candidate stays in the starting position (down) for three (3) seconds or more.

PART 2

Step Test

Allow the candidate a practice opportunity to step in cadence (up, up, down, down).

Instruct the candidate to step up with the lead foot followed by the lag foot (up, up), then step down with the lead foot followed by the lag foot (down, down).

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Advise the candidate that they may switch their lead foot at any time if they wish to, but must not break cadence or stop moving while doing so.

The audio will instruct you when to start and stop the test.

Instruct the candidate to step in cadence with the audio.

The Step Test will stop:

o If the candidate is unable to maintain cadence in accordance with the audio for three (3) consecutive sequences – OR – o If the candidate is unable to maintain cadence in accordance with the audio for a total of six (6) sequences within the 5 minute test – OR – o If the candidate uses their hands/arms to push on their legs to assist in stepping –

OR –

o If the candidate voluntarily stops the test.

If the candidate does not complete the full 5 minute step test in cadence, record the time the test was stopped on the score sheet, and record the reason for stopping the test on the Statement Regarding the Customs and Border Protection Officer Fitness Test Failure.

Score Sheet Accuracy

The TA must ensure that each section of the score sheet is completed thoroughly except the scoring area; otherwise DO NOT LEAVE ANY BLANKS.

1. The Candidate Information section shall be completed by the TA prior to administering the

PFT-1.

2. The TA shall check the appropriate position (AIA, MIA, or AEA) for which the candidate is testing.

3. The Individual Test Results section shall be completed by the TA during the administration of the PFT-1.

4. The Test Administrator Information section shall be completed by the TA by legibly printing his/her first and last names.

5. The Candidate Information, Test Administrator Information, and the “Statement Regarding the Air Interdiction Agent and Marine Interdiction Agent Fitness Test Failure” sections of the PFT-1 Score Sheet shall be thoroughly and legibly completed by the TA.

6. The Candidate Signature section shall be completed by the candidate following the administration of the PFT-1.

Each part of the PFT-1 is scored separately. Candidates are required to pass both parts in order to continue in the hiring process.

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APPENDICES

Updated 06/24/2014

Office of Air and Marine Pre-employment Fitness Test (PFT-1) Score Sheet

(Please Print)

___ AIA

___ MIA

___ AEA

CANDIDATE INFORMATION

Last Name First M.I. Gender

M F

Social Security Number

Date of Birth (MM/DD/YYYY) Age Height (inches) Weight (pounds)

Part One: INDIVIDUAL TEST RESULTS SCORING

Push-up Test

No. completed in 1-minute __________

Score:

Side Step Test

No. of line touches/crosses _____ (trial 1) _____ (trial 2) Score:

Sit-up Test

No. completed in 1-minute _________

Score:

TOTAL:

Part Two:

12” Step Test

Candidate completed the 5 minute step test in cadence Yes No* Time stopped: _______ minutes _______ seconds

**If “No,” document the reason on the Statement Regarding the Customs and Border Protection Officer Fitness Test Failure.

CANDIDATE SIGNATURE

I ACKNOWLEDGE THE INDIVIDUAL TEST RESULTS ABOVE

NAME __________________________________________________________________DATE_______________________

TEST ADMINISTRATOR INFORMATION

Test Date Test Site Location (City/State)

Print Name

Signature

Phone Number (xxx-xxx-xxxx)

Appendix A

Candidate Name (Last, First, MI) (Print) Social Security Number (Last 4)

Test Administrator Name (Last, First) (Print)

Statement Regarding OAM Fitness Test Failure (please print legibly and describe all details clearly)

Sworn Statement:

I do so declare under penalty of law this is an accurate and truthful documentation of the circumstances of the Air or MIA Pre-employment Fitness Test battery administered to the candidate named above.

Test Administrator Signature

Date Telephone Number

Appendix B

Pre-employment Fitness Test-1 Candidate Health History Questionnaire & Medical Provider Statement

You have been tentatively selected for one of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s physically demanding law enforcement occupations. You must successfully complete the Pre-employment Fitness Test-1 (PFT-1) in order to have continued consideration for this position. The PFT-1 requirements are attached for your review.

Instructions: You must complete the following health screening questionnaire and bring it with you to your PFT-1 appointment. You will not be allowed to participate in the PFT-1 without this signed form. The answers provided will be reviewed to determine your eligibility to participate in the PFT-1. Please read carefully and respond to each question below.

Yes No

□ □ 1. Has your medical provider told you that you have a heart problem or other condition that limits your activity?

□ □ 2. In the last 6 months, have you had palpitations (fluttering sensations of the heart), pain, tightness or pressure in your chest while at rest or when you do physical activity/work/exercise?

□ □ 3. Have you ever become lightheaded or dizzy, passed out, or nearly passed out during or after exercise?

□ □ 4. Do you have a bone or joint problem that is made worse by performing physical activity/exercise or could become worse by participating in the PFT-1?

□ □ 5. Do you take any prescribed or over the counter medications that may preclude or affect your ability to take the

PFT-1?

□ □ 6. Do you know of any other reason (medical/physical problem, condition or impairment) that may preclude or affect your ability to take the PFT-1?

If you answered “yes” to any questions above, take the PFT-1 Screening & Medical Provider Statement forms to your medical provider for their approval prior to your fitness test appointment. Your medical provider will need to review your health history, PFT-1 screening responses, and the PFT-1 requirements to determine your ability to participate in the PFT-1. If you answered “no”, be prepared to participate in the PFT-1 after scheduling your appointment.

By signing below I acknowledge that the information provided above is accurate.

Candidate’s Printed Name Candidate’s Signature Date

Position Applicant ID

FOR USE BY FITNESS TEST ADMINISTRATOR ONLY

Appendix B Date Test Administrator Printed Name Signature Participation Approved/Denied

Dear Provider, Please review the Fitness Test Requirements for the appropriate position below, and certify whether or not the candidate is cleared to participate.

Candidate’s Name (print): _____________________________________ Date: _______________________

Position: ______________________________________________ Applicant ID: ______________________

If your medical provider determines that you cannot safely participate in the required fitness test, please fax or email the PFT-1 Screening and the Medical Provider Statement form to 952-806-0845

Pre-Employment Fitness Test Requirements Border Patrol Agent (BPA) 20 push-ups in 60 seconds

25 sit-ups in 60 seconds

Cadence of 120 steps per minute for five (5) minutes on a bench fourteen (14) inches in height

Customs and Border Protection Officer

(CBPO)

60-second push-up test

Two (2) 10-second side step tests

60-second sit-up test

60-second lift/lower test in which the candidate must lift a 50-pound crate onto a 30-inch high table eight (8) times

Cadence of 120 steps per minute for five (5) minutes on a bench twelve (12) inches in height

Office of Air & Marine (OAM):

Air Interdiction Agent (AIA)

Marine Interdiction Agent (MIA)

Aviation Enforcement Agent (AEA)

60-second push-up test

60-second sit-up test

60-second lift/lower test in which the candidate must lift a 50-pound crate onto a 30-inch high table eight (8) times

Cadence of 120 steps per minute for five (5) minutes on a bench twelve (12) inches in height

Provider Certification I have reviewed the candidate’s health history questionnaire responses and the fitness test requirements and give the following opinion:

CLEARED TO SAFELY PARTICIPATE IN THE PFT-1

-1

Medical Provider’s Printed Name/Specialty:

Medical Provider’s Signature:

Office Address:

Telephone Number:

Date:

Fax Number:

Medical Provider Statement or pcsmed.nhc@dhs.gov

Appendix C

Office of Air and Marine (OAM) Candidate Waiver and Release of Liability

I, ___________________________________________ (print full legal name), a candidate for a physically demanding position with Customs and Border Protection (CBP), certify and declare that I am currently engaged in a regular physical exercise program and can complete CBP’s Pre-employment Fitness Test-1 without harm to myself. I understand that the OAM PFT-1 is divided into two parts and that each part is scored separately. Part 1 consists of three tests: (1) 60-second push-up test; (2) 60-second sit-up test; and, (3) two 10-second side step tests. Part 2 consists of one test, a 5 minute step test in which I must complete in cadence at 120 beats per minute. I further understand that the purpose of the PFT-1 is to measure my general level of physical fitness and my present ability to safely and successfully complete OAM basic training.

List any health or physical problems that could, in any way, cause danger to you during physical exercise or elevate the risk factors associated with physical exertion.

(Use back if additional space is required.)

I acknowledge that there are risks inherent with any physical activity and understand that it is my responsibility to notify testing personnel of any known pre-existing conditions that might, in any way, adversely affect my ability or safety during the PFT-1. Furthermore, I understand that it is my responsibility to monitor individual physical performance during the physical activities and testing and to immediately stop and notify the Test Administrators administering the testing should any unusual or adverse reactions be experienced.

Understanding the risks inherent with the physical activities that are part of the PFT-1, and in consideration of being permitted to participate in the above-identified events comprising the PFT-1, I hereby assume for myself and my guardians, heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns all risks, whether currently known or unknown, associated with and arising out of my participation or execution of the events comprising the PFT-1. Further, I hereby release, waive, discharge, and relinquish any causes of action which may arise for myself and my estate, and agree that under no circumstances will I or my guardians, heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns prosecute or present any claim for personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death against the U.S. Government, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the test administration facilities, or any of the officers, agents, or employees thereof for any causes of action, whether the same shall arise by the negligence of any of said persons or otherwise.

By my signature, I acknowledge that I have read the foregoing certification, waiver, and release in its entirety; that I understand fully the contents thereof; that I have been completely advised of the potential dangers incident to engaging in the PFT-1; and that I am fully aware of the legal consequences of signing this instrument.

Candidate’s Signature Date

Witness’ Signature Date mailto:pcsmed.nhc@dhs.gov

Appendix D

Air Interdiction Agent, Marine Interdiction Agent, and Aviation Enforcement Agent

PRE-EMPLOYMENT FITNESS TEST (PFT-1)

INJURY/ACCIDENT/INCIDENT REPORT FORM

Testing Discontinued

Reasons:

Adverse weather conditions (attached printout from www.nws.noaa.com to this form)

Candidate injured him/herself during testing

Date of Incident: _______________ Time: ________ AM/PM

Name of candidate:

Male ______ Female _______ Date of Birth ______/______/________

Testing Location (Name/City/State/Number):_________________________________________

Address:

Test Administrator’s Name(s):

Indicate specific test being administered at the time of injury/accident:_____________________

Type of injury/accident/incident:______ ______

Details of incident: __________________

Details of immediate care provided to the candidate:____________________________________

Injury required hospital visit? Yes ___ No _____

Name of physician/hospital:

Address:

Signature of injured party _________________________________Date __________________

Signature of Test Administrator Date___________________

Fax to Program Manager and submit to CBP within 24 hours incident date http://www.nws.noaa.com/

Figure 2 – Touch outside line

Count 1

Figure 4 – Touch outside line

Count 3

Notes:

Repeat side step motion until 10 seconds expires

Count each outside line touch/cross and every center line cross Figure 5 – Cross center line with both feet

Count 4

Figure 3 – Cross center line with both feet

Count 4

Figure 1 – Straddle the center line

SIDE STEP

DIAGRAM

Appendix E