Volunteer Firefighters Research Articles

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

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.

Factors Influencing Changes in Social Activity under COVID-19 in Polish Rural Areas

The COVID-19 pandemic, due to unprecedented countermeasures aimed at limiting social contact, affected many spheres of life, including the forms and scope of social activity. This paper aims to identify the importance of the size and economic type of village, as well as the existence of rural organizations before the pandemic to identify the changes in different forms of social activity among rural area residents during the first and second year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland. This research was based on phone interviews (CATI) carried out in December 2022 with village administrators. It was concluded that the village size, economic profile, and the activities of various types of social organizations had very limited influence on changes in social contact during the pandemic. The economic type of the village, both low and high levels of agrarisation, showed a significant relationship with change of only one form of social activity: joint work on a farm. The activities of organizations popular in rural areas such as Volunteer Firefighters’ Brigades or Rural Housewives’ Clubs played an important role in the changes (decrease) in meetings at home and after mass in church.

Multi-sensor fusion for biomechanical analysis: evaluation of dynamic interactions between self-contained breathing apparatus and firefighter using computational methods

Understanding the complex three-dimensional (3D) dynamic interactions between self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and the human torso is critical to assessing potential impacts on firefighter health and informing equipment design. This study employed a multi-inertial sensor fusion technology to quantify these interactions. Six volunteer firefighters performed walking and running experiments on a treadmill while wearing the SCBA. Calculations of interaction forces and moments from the multi-inertial sensor technology were validated against a 3D motion capture system. The predicted interaction forces and moments showed good agreement with the measured data, especially for the forces (normal and lateral) and moments (x- and z-direction components) with relative root mean square errors (RMSEs) below 9.4%, 7.7%, 7.7%, and 7.8%, respectively. Peak pack force reached up to 150 N, significantly exceeding the SCBA’s intrinsic weight during SCBA carriage. The proposed multi-inertial sensor fusion technique can effectively evaluate the 3D dynamic interactions and provide a scientific basis for health monitoring and ergonomic optimization of SCBA systems for firefighters.

Mindfulness para reducir el estrés en los bomberos voluntarios del SAR Bolivia

Stress is a state that affects well-being, in this case of the volunteer firefighters of the 2nd “Santa Bárbara” company; who when carrying out their work are exposed to stress, for this reason a comprehensive work strategy was developed that influenced their daily life, the Perceived Stress Scale (PES) test was applied that measures the perception of psychological stress and the program was implemented Mindfulness MBSR, which seeks to reduce stress based on meditation. The research approach was quantitative, experimental with a quasi-experimental design, participants were randomly assigned to the control group and the experimental group. At the end of the application of the MBSR Mindfulness program, it was observed that stress levels decreased, however, not significantly due to the increase in fires and heat sources.

Odds of developing cancer among male and female volunteer firefighters in Florida: A case-control study design.

Determine whether volunteer firefighters in Florida are at increased odds of developing cancer compared to non-firefighters. A case-control study design was implemented to assess the odds of developing cancer among male and female volunteer firefighters in Florida. Gender-specific age and calendar year-adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were estimated. Male volunteer firefighters were at increased odds for developing prostate (aOR = 1.26; 95%CI;[1.10- 1.44]) and male genital cancers combined (1.22;[1.07-1.39]), while reduced odds for endocrine cancer (0.41;[0.17-1.00]), and all leukemias (0.55;[0.35-0.86]), including lymphocytic (0.48;[0.24-0.97]); and chronic lymphocytic (0.40;[0.17-0.97]) leukemias. Female volunteer firefighters were at increased odds of developing of kidney cancer (2.51;[1.29-4.91]). Male volunteer firefighters are at increased odds for prostate and overall male genital cancers, while female volunteers are increased odds of kidney cancer.

The impact of positive-pressure breathing apparatus on muscle fatigue of volunteer firefighter.

Muscle fatigue is one of the leading causes that contributes tremendously to injuries among volunteer firefighters in the workplace. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of positive-pressure breathing apparatus on muscle fatigue in the shoulder, back, and legs of volunteer firefighters. A total of 60 volunteer firefighters were recruited to perform a running task on a motorized treadmill in a controlled laboratory environment. Surface electromyography and rating of perceived exertion scores were collected from all participants every 60 seconds during the running task. Results show that the median frequency values for all measured muscle groups were significantly lower, and the rating of perceived exertion score was significantly higher after running with the positive-pressure breathing apparatus. Meanwhile, there were no significant differences in the median frequency values for the upper trapezius, erector spinae, and biceps femoris between the initial and final periods of running task without load. However, the median frequency values with load for gastrocnemius, rectus femoris, and tibialis anterior exhibited a greater downward trend compared to those without load. Additionally, using a breathing apparatus can cause asymmetric muscle fatigue in bilateral upper trapezius, erector spinae, gastrocnemius, and tibialis anterior muscles. The decreased performance due to muscle fatigue increases the risk of accidents, thereby posing a threat to the safety of volunteer firefighters. This study offers valuable insights into the effects of positive-pressure breathing apparatus on muscle fatigue among volunteer firefighters. These results may serve as a reference for developing improved fatigue management strategies and optimizing the design features of breathing apparatus.

Risk Evaluate and Control of Volunteer Firefighters Using Group Decision Making

Risk management encompasses all measures taken before the occurrence of risk events to mitigate potential future losses. Although volunteer firefighters serve in a voluntary capacity, their disaster response duties expose them to various risks similar to those faced by professional firefighters. Furthermore, due to differences in training, auxiliary methods, and physical conditions, they may encounter distinct risk factors and potentially higher disaster risks. This paper explores risk identification, control, and reduction for volunteer firefighters through organizational responsibilities and risk management perspectives, employing a group decision making model. Utilizing the Operational Risk Management Integration Tools (ORMIT) and the modified Delphi method, the analysis identifies 54 major risk factors for Taitung County's volunteer firefighters during disaster response duties. These risk factors are categorized according to the 5M model (Man, Machine, Media, Management, Mission), prioritized and addressed using the Main Operational Risk Management List (MOL) and the Risk Control Option Matrix (COM). After proposing corresponding risk control measures, the Average Risk Index (ARI) for the "Potential Risks in Volunteer Firefighters' Disaster Response Duties" decreased from 14.31 to 5.06. The Average Risk Rating (ARR) improved from a high-risk level (H-7) to a low-risk level (L-16). The results demonstrate that through risk identification, assessment, and control procedures, the potential risks faced by volunteer firefighters in disaster response can be significantly reduced.

Residual polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and firefighters' hematological profile

IntroductionFirefighters are exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) during fire suppression, but the extent of PAH penetration through turnout gear and its impact on blood cell components remains uncertain. The main objective of this study is to investigate the residual levels of PAHs on turnout gear and skin, and to assess their potential effects on blood cell components in firefighters. We hypothesize that firefighting activities lead to increased PAH exposure, which in turn may induce alterations in blood cell composition. We also hypothesize that differences in PAH exposure and corresponding blood cell changes will be observed between volunteer and career firefighters.MethodsForty-seven firefighters were recruited from 11 fire departments in Oklahoma. PAH levels on gear and skin were measured, and complete blood count (CBC) parameters were analyzed. Parametric and non-parametric tests were used to examine differences in PAH exposures and hematological profiles between volunteer and career firefighters and possible changes over time. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were performed to assess the relationships between PAHs and blood cells.ResultsOur analysis revealed significant hematological differences between volunteer and career firefighters, with volunteers exhibiting lower aerobic capacity and higher systemic inflammation. Increased levels of specific PAHs were found on volunteers' gear post-fire.ConclusionOur findings indicate an association between PAH exposure and changes in blood parameters, emphasizing the need for improved decontamination protocols and protective measures, particularly for volunteer firefighters.

Neuverteilung von Verantwortung? Brandschutzerziehung als Strategie zur Zukunftssicherung Freiwilliger Feuerwehren

Volunteer firefighters are an established institution in many rural areas across Europe. In spite of this ubiquity, many volunteer brigades have been increasingly facing challenges in discharging their functions. Issues such as undertaking necessary investments, and ensuring daytime availability have become particularly critical against the backdrop of an increase in the number of interventions. Many of the measures intended to futureproof volunteer firefighting are based on transferring responsibility to different actors. To this end developing and expanding the reach of fire safety education functions to enhance the public’s prevention and self-protection skills. The aim of this paper is to explore the process of institutional change induced by innovative initiatives, which aim to advance fire safety education. For the study, we draw on empirical research, which follows the development and mainstreaming of two projects in Austria and Germany. These initiatives aim to standardise disparate approaches and are underpinned by new forms of multi-level cooperation. Our inductive analysis identifies five key steps which define the successful long-term implementation of projects in coproduced services of general interest. We conclude with observations on the redistribution of responsibility for fire services and hazard prevention in contemporary societies.

Fighting fire and fumes: risk awareness and protective practices among Western Australian firefighters

Background In Western Australia, the issue of bushfires (wildfires) poses a persistent health risk to both volunteer and career forestry firefighters, populations that have been historically understudied. Aims This descriptive qualitative study aimed to examine firefighters’ level of understanding concerning hazardous exposures, their Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) protocols and their decontamination practices. Methods Guided by the socioecological model, 23 semi-structured interviews were conducted with firefighters representing both volunteer and forestry sectors. Key results Results indicate a gap in knowledge regarding the health risks associated with bushfire-generated smoke and contaminants among volunteer firefighters. Forestry firefighters, conversely, showed a greater awareness of these risks. Social dynamics, such as peer pressure, were identified as historical deterrents to PPE use, although recent trends indicate positive change. Forestry firefighters also highlighted systemic shortcomings, including inadequate provision of respiratory protection and lack of decontamination facilities for cleaning themselves and their PPE. Conclusion This study underscores the critical need for educational initiatives to address these gaps in understanding, along with organisational reforms to promote a culture encouraging PPE use and to provide essential resources for effective decontamination. Implications This research emphasises that a multi-level approach is essential for safeguarding the health of firefighters in bushfire-prone environments.

Age and physical activity status of Australian volunteer firefighters: a cross-sectional study

Age and physical activity status of Australian volunteer firefighters: a cross-sectional study

Knowledge of Infection Prevention and Control and Practice Behaviors among Career and Volunteer Firefighters in Rural Communities

Due to the emerging threat conditions in the work environment, firefighters are at a high risk of exposure to not only toxic substances but also biological agents in the dayroom and during emergency runs. The aim of this study is to evaluate firefighter (career and volunteer) knowledge and practice behaviors on infection control. This study surveyed 444 firefighters (210 career, 234 volunteer) in rural Northwestern Kentucky. The self-reported survey focused on individual characteristics, knowledge on exposure incident control, precautionary actions, and personal protections. We evaluated the descriptive characteristics of knowledge and practice scores stratified by firefighter groups (career and volunteers). The associations between infection control training received (yes/no) and firefighter knowledge and practice scores were also examined. Firefighters who were trained on infection control prevention had significantly higher knowledge scores (M = 63.7, SD = 13.4 vs. M = 59.7, SD = 15.9; p = 0.012). Volunteer firefighters exhibited better infection control practice behaviors than career firefighters (M = 70.6, SD = 13.0 vs. M = 67.4, SD = 11.1; p = 0.05). Firefighters who followed infection control guidelines (M = 69.5, SD = 11.9 vs. M = 58.1, SD = 9.9; p = 0.012) and expressed need for a comprehensive training on personal protective equipment (PPE) selection (β = 3.41, SE = 1.54, aOR = 30.22, 95% CI: 1.47–620.87; p = 0.028) had significantly higher practice scores compared to those who did not. The study results have policy implications for infection prevention and control (IPC) in rural fire departments, both career and volunteer. A review of infection control policies is needed, especially as it relates to training and practice behaviors during emergency calls and in the dayroom. Results also suggest the need to develop strategies to improve the culture of PPE use and training on the selection of PPEs appropriate to the emergency response type.

Before, after and beyond the Matzak case: Overview of the Belgian jurisprudence

The Matzak case, a landmark ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), challenged traditional understandings of working time and rest periods, particularly for volunteer firefighters in Belgium. Despite earlier cases before Belgian courts, the Matzak decision brought significant shifts in jurisprudence, influencing how volunteers were categorised and how stand-by time was interpreted. This article examines the impact of the Matzak judgment on Belgian case law, tracing its evolution from pre- Matzak rulings to post-decision interpretations. Analysing decisions from the Court of Cassation and the Constitutional Court, the study explores the redefinition of volunteers as employees and the qualification of stand-by time as working time. The reluctance of Belgian courts to adapt their views on stand-by duty prior to Matzak is highlighted, with persistent adherence to principles established in the Simap case. However, the Matzak ruling prompted questions about the treatment of voluntary firefighters and the adequacy of legal distinctions. Despite initial resistance, subsequent cases challenged previous interpretations, leading to clarifications by the Court of Cassation. Ambiguities remain, as seen in the Simon case, raising concerns about consistent application of Matzak jurisprudence. The unique status of voluntary firefighters in Belgium presents challenges, as they operate in a legal grey area with regards to rights and working conditions. Municipalities are urged to regulate their working time in the absence of general legislation. Nonetheless, the recognition of firefighters as workers by the CJEU offers promise for their legal standing under EU law. Increasing recognition of comparability between volunteers and professionals suggests a move towards more equitable treatment. Looking beyond Matzak, the article explores implications for the evolving digital workplace, where boundaries between work and personal time blur. The Matzak principle, which introduces objective limitations on devotion to personal and social interests, offers a framework for addressing these challenges. By considering potential applications in the digital realm, the article emphasises the importance of protecting worker well-being and rest periods, consistent with the objectives of the Working Time Directive. In conclusion, the Matzak case has had a significant impact on Belgian jurisprudence regarding the working time of volunteer firefighters and the adjudication of stand-by periods. While challenges and ambiguities persist, the ruling has spurred a reassessment of legal frameworks and encouraged greater recognition of the rights of volunteer workers. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the Matzak principle provides a valuable tool for navigating complex issues of work-life balance and ensuring the protection of workers’ rights.

Motivations and expectations of German volunteer firefighters

ABSTRACT In many countries of the world, fire brigades are led by volunteers. Using Germany as an example, the article examines what motivates volunteer firefighters in rural areas to engage in this specific voluntary activity and what they expect from political decision-makers and officials in turn. To answer these questions, the article presents the results of a survey of 429 volunteer firefighters from the 16 fire brigades of a rural district in western Germany and a focus group discussion with their chiefs. The case study confirms the findings of previous international studies that egoistic and altruistic motives guide volunteer firefighters. At the same time, the data shows that the volunteers strive for a certain professionalism in the exercise of their work, which also drives them. These motives generate specific expectations on the part of volunteers, especially in terms of recognition and appreciation from political and administrative officials. The volunteer firefighters expect that their work will be recognized by citizens, politicians and public administrators and will be valued accordingly both on a personal level (in the form of material and immaterial recognition) as well as in providing appropriate framework conditions for the adequate performance of their work (equipment, acceptance by employers).

소방 인력 부족 상황에서 의용소방대의 벌집 문제 해결 효과 분석

This research examines the societal challenges posed by global warming and the proliferation of wasps in urban settings. It also investigates the impact of volunteer firefighters during times of firefighter shortages using a System Dynamics-GIS model. The study employs the Monte Carlo method for simulation, focusing on fire damage, beehive damage with and without volunteer firefighter involvement. After 600 seconds, the simulation revealed that average fire damage was 27.18. Beehive damage averaged at 15.12 without volunteer firefighter assistance, but this figure dropped to 4.88 with their aid. Analysis shows that beehive damage constituted 55.63% of fire damage without volunteer intervention, and only 17.95% with it. This translates to a 67.72% decrease in beehive damage due to volunteer firefighter efforts. These findings provide a quantitative assessment of the role of volunteer firefighters in scenarios of firefighter scarcity and offer critical data for developing relevant firefighting strategies.

Prevalence and predictors of colon and prostate cancer screening among volunteer firefighters: The United States Firefighter Cancer Assessment and Prevention Study.

Although firefighters have increased risk for colon and prostate cancer, limited information exists on screening practices for these cancers in volunteer firefighters who compose two-thirds of the US fire service. We estimated the prevalence of colon and prostate cancer screening among volunteer firefighters using eligibility criteria from 4 evidence-based screening recommendations and evaluated factors influencing screening. We evaluated colon (n = 569) and prostate (n = 498) cancer screening prevalence in a sample of US volunteer firefighters using eligibility criteria from the US Preventive Services Taskforce (USPSTF), National Fire Protection Association, American Cancer Society, and National Comprehensive Cancer Network. We assessed associations with fire service experience, demographics, and cancer risk perception based on USPSTF guidelines. For those eligible based on USPSTF guidelines, colon and prostate cancer screening prevalence was 51.7% (95% CI: 45.7, 57.8) and 48.8% (95% CI: 40.0, 57.6), respectively. Higher odds of colon and prostate cancer screening were observed with older age and with some college education compared to those with less education. Fire service experience and cancer risk perception were not associated with screening practices. This is the first large study to assess colon and prostate cancer screening among US volunteer firefighters based on different screening guidelines. Our findings suggest gaps in cancer prevention efforts in the US volunteer fire service. Promoting cancer screening education and opportunities for volunteer firefighters by their fire departments, healthcare professionals, and public health practitioners, may help to address the gaps.

Age-Related Differences in Physical Fitness and Performance of an “Ability Test” among Firefighters

This study’s primary objective was to examine the differences in body composition, abdominal strength, absolute and relative power, handgrip strength, one repetition maximum for squat and bench press, and the maximum count of push-up and sit-up repetitions executed within a minute across different age cohorts of firefighters. Furthermore, this study aimed to evaluate the age-related differences in firefighters’ completion times of six firefighting tasks. Eighty-four male volunteer firefighters (age 33.79 ± 6.97 years) were grouped into three age categories, 20–30 years, 31–40 years, and 41–50 years, and underwent the aforementioned evaluations. One-way analysis of variance (MANOVA) revealed that age exerts a statistically significant influence (p < 0.001) on body fat percentage, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio. Furthermore, age significantly affected the overall time of the ability test (p < 0.001) and the duration required to accomplish each individual task (p < 0.001). Additionally, age significantly affected abdominal strength, relative power (as measured by the step test), and the maximum count of push-up and sit-up repetitions performed within a minute. These outcomes support earlier research indicating an age-associated decrement in physical fitness parameters among firefighters. It is recommended that firefighters prioritize maintaining strength and endurance of the abdominal muscles, upper body muscular endurance, and a healthy body weight. The emphasis on specific muscular groups is essential for improving task performance within this profession.

The Effect of Mandatory Fitness Requirements on Cardiovascular Events: A State-by-State Analysis Using a National Database.

Cardiovascular events are known to be the leading cause of death among on-duty firefighters. Implementing fitness standards may help reduce the incidence of cardiovascular deaths; however, standards vary between firefighter type and states. We aimed to investigate the rate of cardiovascular events among firefighters across states. Using publicly available data from the United States Fire Administration, we explored the rates of cardiovascular deaths between firefighter type (e.g., career, volunteer, and wildland) and state. Specifically, we examined rates of cardiovascular deaths between California and Tennessee, which have fitness standards for all firefighters, and New York, which does not have fitness standards for volunteer firefighters. We used descriptive statistics and trend analysis to examine the data. Most cardiovascular events occur among volunteer firefighters (60.6%, n = 877). Volunteer firefighters had 7.5 (95% CI = [4.8, 11.7], p < .001) greater odds of cardiovascular events compared to wildland firefighters, who had the lowest incidence of cardiovascular events (1.7%, n = 24). New York reported the most cardiovascular events (n = 161), primarily among volunteer firefighters (73.9%, n = 119). After the passage of legislation mandating fitness standards in California, a downtrend in the number of volunteer firefighter fatalities is observed. However, a null effect was observed in Tennessee after the passage of similar fitness standards as in California. Volunteer firefighters are significantly more likely to die of a cardiovascular event than career and wildland firefighters, both of which have stricter fitness standards. However, the effect of legislation mandating stricter fitness standards among volunteers did not produce a clear benefit for preventing fatalities. Nurses need to promote cardiovascular health among volunteer firefighters.

Determinants of stair climbing speeds in volunteer firefighters

Stair climb is a physically demanding task for firefighters and plays an important role in firefighting. Yet little is known about factors affecting the speed of firefighters on stairs. The aims of this study were to quantify stair climbing speeds in firefighting and to establish the relationship between multiple factors and stair performance of firefighters. A convenience sample of sixty-three volunteer firefighters (30.4 ± 8.2 years; BMI 26.2 ± 4.2 Kg/m2) performed stair climb exercises under different conditions: without additional equipment, with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), with PPE and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), and with PPE and SCBA while carrying a tool (e.g., axe, hose, Halligan, etc.). The observed climbing rates of the SCBA and Tool conditions align with earlier studies. Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) analysis revealed that the combination of extrinsic factors (covered distance and equipment weight) along with intrinsic factors (gender, age, Body Mass Index and handrail use) significantly explained 37 % of the variance in ascent speed and 23 % of the variance in descent speed of firefighters. Overall males exhibited faster speeds and older age, higher BMI, and longer distances lead to slower speeds. Equipment weight was found to be the most substantial individual predictor on stair performance in firefighters. For example, carrying an extra load equivalent to 30 % of body mass resulted in a decrease of 24.8 % and 17.6 % in ascent and descent speed respectively. These findings may contribute to improve fire safety engineering analysis and firefighting operations.

A longitudinal investigation of job demands‐resources theory in volunteer firefighters working for the nonprofit sector

AbstractMany nonprofit emergency service organizations rely heavily on volunteers. With the recent decline in volunteer numbers and the associated economic cost, it is important for nonprofit organizations to develop strategies aimed at improving volunteer retention. To this end, we applied job demands‐resources theory to examine how volunteer demands and resources explain volunteers' well‐being (i.e., exhaustion and engagement) and consequently, retention and mental health (i.e., depressive symptoms). Specifically, we hypothesized that: (1) exhaustion mediates the positive relationship between demands and depressive symptoms, and the negative relationship between demands and retention; (2) engagement mediates the positive relationship between resources and retention; (3) resources buffer the positive relationship between demands and exhaustion; and (4) demands boost the positive relationship between resources and engagement. Volunteer firefighters (N = 126) were asked to complete a self‐report questionnaire twice over a 1‐year period. Results showed that increases in engagement mediated the positive relationship between resources and retention over time. Contrary to expectations, volunteer resources boosted the positive relationship between volunteer demands and increases in exhaustion. Namely, demands related positively with exhaustion particularly when resources were high (instead of low). Collectively, the study results have important theoretical implications since they suggest that demands do not always have long‐term, unfavorable consequences for volunteer firefighters. In contrast, resources enhance volunteer engagement and consequently, promote retention in the long run. Therefore, it is important for volunteer organizations to provide relevant resources to their members to keep them engaged and enhance their willingness to remain in the force.