Development and evaluation of a novel self-contained breathing apparatus pack to reduce musculoskeletal loads and enhance firefighter comfort

Abstract

Self‑Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) is an essential piece of personal protective equipment for firefighters, providing essential respiratory support and protection. A major challenge in SCBA research is to reduce musculoskeletal disorders and enhance firefighter comfort while carrying the SCBA. In this study, a novel SCBA pack was designed to reduce SCBA‑related musculoskeletal stress. Ten volunteer firefighters were recruited to participate in the test protocol equipped with a novel SCBA (SCBANovel) and a traditional SCBA (SCBATrad) pack. Surface electromyography and pressure data were collected, and subjective ratings of discomfort using a visual analog scale. The results showed that the SCBANovel significantly reduced trapezius and erector spinae muscle activity. Shoulder and waist pressure were reduced by 19.73%‑32.83% and 18.46%‑41.55%, respectively. In addition, the SCBANovel pack reduced lower back discomfort scores by 59.1%, all compared to the SCBATrad pack. The SCBANovel pack showed a significant reduction in musculoskeletal stress and discomfort in firefighters. Practitioner Summary SCBAs are known to be critical in protecting the health of firefighters, but are often associated with firefighter discomfort and musculoskeletal disorders. We developed the SCBANovel pack and explored the effects on the upper body musculoskeletal system and comfort during walking and running compared to carrying the SCBATrad pack. The SCBANovel pack reduced muscle activity in the trapezius and erector spinae muscles and significantly reduced pressure on the shoulders and lower back.