Purpose Statement:
All students in this program are expected to meet certain essential functions/technical standards which are essential for successful completion of all phases of the program and which reflect industry requirements and standards. To verify the students’ ability to perform these essential functions, students may be required to demonstrate the following technical standards:
| Standard | Definition of Standard | Example(s) of Technical Standard |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Critical Thinking Skills | General understanding of fire protection concepts, codes, safety, administration, and management
Use of judgment and problem-solving |
Creating a tactical plan of attack given a scenario for fire ground operations |
| 2. Mobility/Motor Skills | Ability to perform functions such as navigating field environments and maintaining balance on uneven surfaces
Specific physical fitness requirements as well as height/weight specifications (by certain agencies) Ability to lift and carry at least 250 pounds with a partner Ability to stoop, bend, and work in confined areas for extensive periods Tolerance for exposure to hazardous materials, extreme heat and smoke |
Performing CPR, lifting/moving a patient |
| 3. Tactile Skills | Use of computer keyboard | Typing |
| 4. Auditory Skills | Ability to hear communication over the radio or above the sound of engines on emergency scenes | Utilizing a handheld radio during an emergency or in an incident scenario |
| 5. Visual Skills | Ability to visually inspect equipment for reliability | Equipment maintenance check on a ventilation saw |
| 6. Communication Skills | Comprehension and understanding of spoken and written language to include complex medical terminology; inspection and OSHA codes in an accurate and expedient manner
Ability to verbally and in writing report client data to the healthcare team and first responder personnel |
Completing an incident run report |
| 7. Interpersonal Skills | Ability to work with others in a variety of settings and situations
Maintaining hygiene and dress or uniform requirements Ability to listen to others and determine their wants and needs Guidelines are met related to personal history, motor vehicle record Ability to adapt to changing environments and work-related challenges, maintain composure in stressful situations |
Responding to course group questions, working in a team environment |
| 8. Behavioral Skills | Ability to prioritize responses and interventions
Application of ethical standards |
Respectful and appropriate communication with instructors, students, or patients |
In the case of a qualified individual with a documented disability, appropriate and reasonable accommodations will be made unless to do so would fundamentally alter the essential training elements, cause undue hardship, or produce a direct threat to the safety of the patient or student.
Accessibility Services Statement
The College has a legal obligation to provide appropriate accommodations for students with documented disabilities. If you have a disability and are seeking accommodations, you should contact the Student Accessibility Services (SAS) office (Sink Building; (828) 694-1813; access@blueridge.edu). Students can contact SAS at any time, however they are encouraged to initiate this process as soon as possible (prior to the start of classes and/or field experience).