Physiologic Strain of SCBA (Maze) Training Compared to Circuit Training and Live Fire Training

Abstract

Firefighting is a dangerous occupation and even training carries substantial risk. In fact, about 10-12% of firefighter line of duty deaths occur in training–most due to sudden cardiac death. Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) maze training (also known as SCBA confidence courses) are a common training exercise, and it is often assumed that this type of drill is less physically taxing because there is no “live-fire”. However, little is known about the physiologic strain associated with SCBA maze training. PURPOSE: To compare the physiological strain of SCBA maze training to live fire training and circuit training among cadets at a training academy. METHODS: Cadets (N=40) wore physiologic status monitors to assess heart rate (HR) and estimated core temperature (ECT) during circuit training, live fire training and SCBA maze training. SCBA maze training occurred in full personal protective equipment (PPE) and took place in an air conditioned building. Live fire training occurred in a specialized training structure, and the circuit training workout occurred in a large equipment bay. Age-predicted maximum (APM) HR was calculated using the 220-age formula. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc. RESULTS: Data from 40 cadet firefighters (31±3 yrs. old) were analyzed. No significant difference (p>0.05) was observed between SCBA maze training and live fire training for HR or ECT (see Table 1). However, HR and ECT differed significantly between circuit training and both SCBA maze training and live fire training. CONCLUSIONS: Even though SCBA maze training was performed under controlled environment it involved a physiological strain above circuit training and as high as live fire training, reaching age predicted maximum HR. SCBA maze training should be considered as physiologically stressful as live fire training of similar duration.Table 1: Physiologic characteristics of academy training among cadets (N=40)Supported by FEMA AFG Grant EMW-1015-FP-00731