Hong Kong fire service is easing requirements for applicants but recruits still need to pass training programme to join, school chief says

The Fire and Ambulance Services Academy in Hong Kong is modifying its application requirements for prospective firefighters, according to the academy's commandant, Yiu Men-yeung. While the physical fitness test remains a prerequisite for entry into the service, the academy is relaxing its eyesight and physical fitness requirements. The aim of these changes is to attract a more diverse pool of applicants, including those who wear glasses.

Yiu Men-yeung anticipates that the relaxed requirements will increase the pass rate for the vision and fitness tests from the current 60% to approximately 80 to 90%. The Fire Services Department is among several disciplined services in Hong Kong that are adjusting their recruitment criteria to address staffing issues. As of this month, 3% of fire service positions remain vacant, with station officer posts being the most challenging to fill.

From December 1, the eyesight test for station officer and firefighter applicants will be standardized. The test consists of two parts: first, applicants must correctly identify the first four rows of letters on a chart with each eye. In the second part, applicants can wear glasses and must correctly identify the first six rows of letters with both eyes. Those who wear glasses will be provided with custom-made glasses to wear inside their helmets at work, funded by the department. However, for safety reasons, contact lenses will not be permitted.