United States Fire Administration – Emergency Services Ergonomics and Wellness

Prepared By: This report was developed through a partnership between the United States Fire Administration (USFA) and the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA) at Oklahoma State University (OSU). Project Administrator: Nancy Trench, Assistant Director for Research, OSU Fire Protection Publications (FPP); Principal Investigator: Cerie Smith, PT, DPT, CSCS, Director of Rehabilitation and Wellness, Phoenix (AZ) Fire Department; Editor: Mike Wieder, Associate Director, FPP, Executive Director, IFSTA.

Published: September 2020

Description:

“Ergonomics” can be simply defined as the practice of making the work environment safe and productive for the worker. It is aimed at enhancing a healthy relationship between humans and their working environment, ultimately reducing risk, and thereby creating a safer and more productive workplace. This study was conducted using data from several sources and the results of specific injury characteristics, combined with the science of ergonomics and human factors, to assist in providing corrective measures that will help to increase the safety of emergency responders, reduce the costs of worker’s compensation claims, maximize the longevity of emergency service careers, and assist with sending personnel into healthy retirements.

Access the Report at: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/emergency-services-ergonomics-and-wellness.pdf