Total Contact Firefighter Study

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is conducting an anthropometric survey of US Firefighters.  This study is designed to anthropometrically capture a representative sample of the firefighting population; record mask and helmet fit; statistically summarize the range of body dimensions; characterize and identify the proportionally extreme and mean who pose particular equipment/apparatus design challenges; digitally capture the multivariate “models” in various gear and cab configurations; and develop design criteria and recommendations based on body size data to improve firefighter safety.

 Nine hundred firefighters, including both male and female subjects, have been measured from four different geographic locations as shown in the table below.  The sampling strategy is based on the current make-up of gender and ethnicity found in the US firefighting population.

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Phase 1

The subjects were measured using both traditional (calipers and tape measures) and three-dimensional (FARO arm digitizer, Cyberware scanning systems, and Yeti foot scanner) anthropometric measuring devices.  The participants were measured with and without their personal protective gear while in standing and seated positions, and their demographic information was recorded as well.  Below are photos of a measurement session.

 

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Phase 2 

  

Phase II of data collection includes whole body 3D surface scanning of the subjects with and without their turnout gear.  The subjects will be measured both in standing and seated positions.  Additionally, a mock-up of a fire engine cab will be used to measure the firefighters within the work space using the FARO arm to digitally record the firefighter’s ability to reach and operate the vehicle. The subject will then be asked to stand outside of the cab and “step up” while holding onto a vertical grab bar.  Height of the foot and arm will be recorded for each subject.

 Phase II is still in the planning stages and we’d like input from manufacturers and product developers for a final list of desired measurements.  This is the opportunity to acquire measurements that will be used for many years in product development and ensure accommodation.