Educational and Mandatory Fitness Standards in the Firefighting Profession

Abstract

Firefighting is a physically demanding and hazardous occupation. The hazards of firefighting include exposure to flames and heat, building collapse, and continuous work in a toxic environment, which are the most commonly perceived risks, but the most deadly hazard to on-duty firefighters is that of Sudden Cardiac Death. This qualitative study aimed to explore the educational programs available to the firefighters that can potentially reduce the on-duty sudden cardiac deaths and determine why there are no mandatory fitness standards. The study aimed to offer those responsible for the training of firefighters the specific training and education available and how to motivate firefighters to accept the training and education. The researcher conducted interviews with firefighter respondents who discussed their views regarding firefighter physical demands, mandatory training, and their perceptions on general fitness requirements to meet the research objective. From the evaluation of the findings, it was noted that firefighters have a negative attitude towards training. However, it is evident that physical training is necessary to ensure that the firefighters remain in the best shape to carry out their duties successfully. Besides, fitness will ensure a reduction of the sudden cardiac deaths that have become prevalent among on-duty firefighters. The lack of awareness is a problem that needs to be evaluated through a collaborative approach involving all the stakeholders.

Knowledge and Behaviours Regarding Physical Activity of Firefighters in the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service – a Cross-sectional Study

“…A lack of knowledge regarding the advantages of physical activity may be the underlying cause of poor health habits, which have become rather problematic in the firefighting occupation (Kay et al, 2001;Palmer and Yoos, 2019;Ras and Leach, 2022a;Yu et al, 2015a). Gold (2022) explained that the consequences of poor lifestyle habits and a lack of knowledge go beyond health and extend to work productivity, such as a firefighter being unable to complete rigorous tasks that are required in an emergency situation, as well as one's overall quality of life. Health issues, such as obesity can significantly affect work productivity, as poor habits lead to decreased physical capabilities, resulting in lower output (Lowery and Cassidy, 2022).…”