Fire department of NY
- Out of 10,500 fire fighters working for the FDNY there were only 44 women—95% of men passed the physical test required to become a fire fighter, but only 5.7% of women. As a consequence, the fire department of NY changed the physical fitness test requirements in an attempt to include more women. In particular, they allowed ‘probies’ to fail components of the physical test, but still graduate from the fire academy.
- Based on what you have learned in class, do you think the original physical test used by the FDNY was illegal? Describe your rationale. (2 pts)
- Do you think changing the test requirements was a good solution to the problem? Describe your rationale. Are there any other solutions you would recommend? (3 pts)
