OPPATTM
Select Paramedic and Emergency Medical Services in Ontario require the Ottawa Paramedic Physical Abilities Test (OPPAT™) as part of their hiring process and/or physical demands testing of prospective recruits, paramedics returning to work, and special operations teams. Developed by Drs. Fischer, MacPhee & Sinden, the OPPAT™ is a
bona fide occupational test that emphasizes the tasks associated with being a frontline paramedic, including:
- lifting/lowering of a stretcher (with and without a weighted mannequin);
- performing CPR;
- walking a short distance while carrying a backboard with a weighted mannequin in place; and,
- loading/unloading of the stretcher from an ambulance (with and without a weighted mannequin).
Summary Video
DISCLAIMER: The OPPAT™ is only delivered at Wilfrid Laurier University and the Ottawa Paramedic Services Headquarters. The OPPAT™ is not affiliated with, and does not support or endorse, any external physical training programs, organizations, or agencies. If you have any questions or concerns please contact oppat@wlu.ca.
