Is is right for someone not to get a job because they cannot do enough sit ups, when the job doesn't require you to do a sit up in performing your duties. There are many other factors involved. And why do they allow for different levels for females and sometimes different age categories, when all staff work under the same conditions and wear the same uniform. Due to generally lower strength and endurance etc. levels for women and older people, the setting of standard test target for all ages and both sexes can be seen as a disadvantage, and possible discrimination. On the other hand, it can easily be argued that they are also required to perform the same job as the males, and therefore require the same minimum fitness levels.
Strength is specific to the task required.
Although many places are trying to update their testing protocols, these criticisms I do not think have been adequately addressed. There is no simple answer, and the discussion will continue. The appropriate tests need to be determined on an individual basis. Have a look at this growing table of examples from different departments around the world, which will give you a good idea what others are doing.