Everyone talks about getting a job in mining.
Very few people talk about the step that actually knocks people out after they finally get an offer.
The medical.
After years on site and reviewing candidates, I can tell you this:
Most people don’t fail because they’re unfit.
They fail because they don’t understand what the medical is actually testing for.
This is how it really works.
What Is a FIFO Medical?
A FIFO medical is a pre-employment health assessment required by mining companies to make sure you can safely work on site.
It’s not a basic check-up.
It’s designed to assess:
- Your ability to perform physical work
- Your risk of injury
- Your reliability in remote environments
- Your overall safety on site
Most roles require either a Pre-Employment Medical (PEM) or a Coal Board Medical depending on the site.
What Do They Test?
A standard mining medical usually includes:
Drug and Alcohol Test
Zero tolerance.
If you fail this, the process ends immediately.
Hearing Test
You sit in a booth and respond to tones.
Mining is a high-noise environment, so hearing matters.
Vision Test
Includes distance, peripheral vision, and colour recognition.
This is especially important for electrical and operator roles.
Lung Function Test
You’ll blow into a machine to measure lung capacity.
Important for dust exposure and confined spaces.
Physical Assessment
Can include:
- Lifting tasks
- Movement checks
- Step tests
They are testing function, not gym strength.
Medical History Review
This is where most people get caught out.
You’ll be asked about:
- Injuries
- Surgeries
- Medications
- Ongoing conditions
They may request reports from your doctor.
What Actually Fails People
This is the part no one explains properly.
Hiding Injuries
If you lie and it gets flagged, you’re done.
Be upfront.
Poor Basic Fitness
You don’t need to be elite.
But if you struggle with basic movement or cardio, it raises concerns.
High Blood Pressure
Very common issue.
Often triggered by nerves, caffeine, or poor prep.
Drug Test Failures
Still one of the biggest reasons people lose offers.
Unresolved Medical Issues
If something gets flagged and you don’t have documentation, it delays or fails the process.
How to Pass First Time
This is what actually works.
Get Fit Before You Apply
Not after.
Basic cardio and movement is enough.
Be Honest
Disclosing something does not mean you fail.
Hiding it often does.
Bring Documentation
If you’ve had injuries or conditions, bring clearance letters.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs Before the Test
Sounds obvious, but people still fail here.
Manage Blood Pressure
- Avoid caffeine
- Stay hydrated
- Get proper sleep
How Long Does It Take?
Once completed:
- Results usually come back within 24 to 72 hours
- Further testing can delay this
This is why some people wait weeks after getting an offer.
Where This Fits in the Process
Typical FIFO hiring process:
- Apply for jobs
👉 Start here: How to Actually Get a Job in FIFO Mining - Get your tickets sorted
👉 Read: What Tickets You Actually Need for FIFO Work - Fix your resume
👉 Read: 10 Resume Mistakes That Are Costing You FIFO Job Offers - Interview
👉 Download: Free FIFO Interview Guide - Medical (this step)
- Start date
If you fail the medical, everything stops here.
Important: Most People Never Even Reach This Stage
If you’re not getting to medicals, your problem is earlier in the process.
Most people:
- Apply for 100+ jobs
- Hear back from 1
- Don’t understand why
If that’s you, start here:
👉 Resume Optimisation Service
Final Advice
The medical is not designed to catch you out.
It’s designed to protect the site.
Most people don’t fail because they can’t do the job.
They fail because they didn’t prepare properly.
If you treat it seriously, it becomes one of the easiest steps in the process.
Next Step
If you’re serious about getting into FIFO:
👉 Download the Free FIFO Interview Guide
👉 Fix your Resume before applying
👉 Book a 1-on-1 Consultation if you want direct guidance
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