Back | Next
Missoula Technology &
Development Center
|
Table
of Contents Back | Next |
Missoula Technology & Development Center |
Work Capacity Test Administrator's Guide
The course must be essentially level, have a firm, relatively smooth walking surface, and allow access for emergency vehicles. The course length (3 miles) must be accurate, so use a measuring wheel (figure 1) or a calibrated bicycle computer to measure doublecheck distances. Vehicle odometers are not accurate enough.
Figure 1—A measuring wheel can
be used
to measure the distance of the test course.
Loop or out-and-back courses are preferable. Try to avoid one-way courses. A moderate grade (2 to 3 percent) is acceptable if the course starts and finishes at the same place. Have lap counters available for courses that will require more than one lap. Use course monitors when needed.
Participants must be informed of the course layout (use a map or sketch of the course). Use distance markers (at 1 or 1.5 miles) to help candidates pace themselves. Use hazard and traffic markers as needed.
Packs—use a comfortable, well-fitted pack or a commercially available weight vest (figures 2, 3) with a gross weight of 45 pounds (25 pounds for field test). Load packs with gear, sandbags, water, or other materials to achieve the required weight. The test administrator must ensure the correct weight of the pack.
Figure 2—A comfortable,
well-fitted pack can be used for testing. |
Figure 3—A commercially
available weighted vest is another option for these tests. |
Safety vests—as needed.
Route markers—as needed.
Distance markers—use mile and midpoint markers to help participants maintain the proper pace.
Stop watches—have two watches to provide backup timing.
Vehicles—bicycle, all-terrain vehicle, or other vehicle to monitor participants on the course.
Radios—use radios and cell phones for monitoring and safety.
Scale—an accurate, hanging-style spring scale is recommended for weighing packs.
A health screening questionnaire (appendix B, or an agency-mandated medical history form) and an informed consent form (appendix C).
A data collection form (appendix D).
Weigh packs before the test and check pack weights after the test.
Use color-coded numbers on packs (red for pack test, yellow for field test, and green for walk test)
Group or stagger starts. Some participants will benefit from the support provided by a group start, but discourage competition.
Test Administration Continued...
| Top Back | Next Table of Contents |
|
 E-mail: wo_mtdc_webmaster@fs.fed.us |
Missoula Technology & Development Center |
