Physiological Response in Accordance with High-Rise Building of Simulated Fire-Fighting in Fire-Fighters

Abstract

Yoo, Dong-Hoon. Physiological Response in Accordance with High-Rise Building of Simulated Fire-Fighting in Fire-Fighters. Exercise Science, 23(3): 267-274. 2014. The purpose of this study was to investigate fire-fighters' physiological response in case of simulated fire-fighting of high-rise building. Eight male fire fighters (6 rescue workers, 2 fire suppression workers; 31.9±4.4 yrs) participated in this study. Each participants performed under the three conditions (HB: entry of high-rise building, SF: simulated fire-fighting, CON: gym suit). The results were as follows: First, oxygen consumption was significantly different between SF and CON. Secondly, heart rates showed difference in both main effect and interaction effect of treatment and time. HB and SF were higher than CON at 3, 9, 12, and 15 min. Thirdly, tympanic temperature showed significant difference in main effect of time and interaction effect of treatment and time. SF was higher than HB and CON at 12, 15 min. Fourth, skin temperature showed difference in both main effect and interaction effect of treatment and time. SF was higher than HB and CON at 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 min. Lastly, rating of perceived exertion showed significant difference in both main effect and interaction effect of treatment and time. SF was higher than CON at 6, 9, 12, and 15 min. Physical standard of fire-fighters based on this study will be suggested in order to provide the guideline for their job safety. Further research on physiological variables during various fire-fighting tasks should also be carried out for more systematic physical guideline to enhancing fire-fighters' job safety. Key words：fire-fighter, oxygen consumption, heart rate, tympanic temperature, skin temperature 초 록