ENHANCING FIREFIGHTER SAFETY: EVALUATING PPE FOR COMFORT AND EFFECTIVENESS
1 Student,
College of Home Science Nirmala Niketan Affiliated to Mumbai University,
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
2 Mentor,
Associate Professor, Department of Community Resource Management, College of
Home Science Nirmala Niketan, (Affiliated to the University of Mumbai), Mumbai,
Maharashtra, India
|
ABSTRACT |
||
Exploratory
research was conducted among 160 firefighters from two Indian states - Goa
and Maharashtra, to evaluate the ergonomic aspects of Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) and Clothing, focusing on firefighter comfort and operational
effectiveness. Using a validated self-constructed questionnaire, researchers
conducted structured interviews with firefighters to gain insights into the
strengths and limitations of current PPE designs. The study revealed critical
gaps in PPE utilization, informing recommendations for precise improvements
to enhance firefighter safety and operational efficiency during emergencies.
These findings aim to improve training programs and protocols, ensuring
firefighters are not exposed to high-risk temperatures without adequate
PPE. The study's results can influence
policy decisions and research resource allocation, ensuring optimal equipping
of firefighters to handle diverse hazards safely and comfortably. The
research has broader implications, aiming to drive advancements in PPE materials
and technologies, focusing on ergonomics, thus benefiting firefighting
practices globally. By prioritizing comfort and functionality in PPE design,
the study seeks to enhance the overall well-being and performance of
firefighters in hazardous environments. Ultimately, the study aspires to
inform better training programs, strengthen disaster response capabilities,
and shape policies that prioritize firefighter safety worldwide, contributing
to improved public safety on a global scale. |
|||
Received 25 March
2024 Accepted 29 April 2024 Published 31 May 2024 Corresponding Author Tahira
Ticlo, tahiraticlo25@gmail.com DOI 10.29121/granthaalayah.v12.i5.2024.5633 Funding: This research
received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial,
or not-for-profit sectors. Copyright: © 2024 The
Author(s). This work is licensed under a Creative Commons
Attribution 4.0 International License. With the
license CC-BY, authors retain the copyright, allowing anyone to download,
reuse, re-print, modify, distribute, and/or copy their contribution. The work
must be properly attributed to its author. |
|||
Keywords: Comfort, Ergonomics, Firefighter Safety,
Occupational Health, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) |
1. INTRODUCTION
Firefighters are frontline heroes who brave extreme
conditions to protect lives and property. However, the limitations of their
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) can compromise their effectiveness and
safety. Traditional firefighting gear often focuses solely on protection,
neglecting crucial aspects of comfort and ergonomics. This paper delves into
the critical importance of integrating ergonomic design principles into the
development of firefighter PPE to enhance safety, comfort, and overall
performance.
The occupational hazards faced by firefighters are
multifaceted, ranging from heat stress and smoke inhalation to physical
exertion and limited mobility. Conventional PPE, while effective in shielding
against these hazards, can be bulky, restrictive, and uncomfortable. Such
limitations not only impede firefighters' movements but also contribute to
fatigue and reduced effectiveness during critical operations.
Ergonomics, the science of designing equipment and systems
to optimize human performance and well-being, offers a promising framework for
addressing these challenges Rao (2018). By prioritizing the
ergonomic needs of firefighters, PPE designers can create gear that not only
provides superior protection but also facilitates natural movements and
minimizes physical strain. One key aspect of ergonomic PPE design is mobility.
Firefighters often need to navigate through confined spaces, climb ladders, and
perform various tasks requiring agility and flexibility. Therefore, PPE should
allow for unrestricted movement without compromising protection. Innovative
design features, such as articulated joints, stretch panels, and adjustable
closures, can enhance mobility while maintaining structural integrity.
Dexterity is another critical consideration in PPE design, as firefighters must
be able to manipulate tools, operate equipment, and perform intricate tasks
with precision Park
et al. (2014). Traditional glove
designs, while protective, can impede tactile sensitivity and fine motor
skills. Ergonomic gloves with anatomical shaping, tactile materials, and
touchscreen compatibility enable firefighters to maintain dexterity without
sacrificing protection. Comfort is paramount for firefighters who often work
long shifts in challenging environments. PPE that is excessively heavy, poorly
ventilated, or abrasive can cause discomfort and distraction, undermining
performance and increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. Ergonomic PPE
incorporates breathable fabrics, moisture-wicking liners, and strategic padding
to enhance comfort and thermoregulation. Ventilation is a critical aspect of
firefighter PPE, as excessive heat buildup inside the gear can lead to heat
stress and dehydration. Ergonomic designs incorporate airflow channels, mesh
panels, and moisture management systems to enhance breathability and reduce
heat retention, thereby improving comfort and performance in high-temperature
environments. In conclusion, optimizing PPE design for firefighters with
ergonomics in mind is essential for ensuring their safety, comfort, and
effectiveness on the front. By integrating ergonomic principles into the
development process, designers can create gear that not only offers superior protection
but also enhances mobility, dexterity, comfort, and ventilation. This research
contributes to the ongoing efforts to improve firefighter well-being and
performance, ultimately saving lives and preserving communities.
The rationale for conducting a study on firefighter
personal protective equipment (PPE) in Maharashtra and Goa, India, is grounded
in the need to address critical research gaps and enhance firefighter safety
and performance. Existing studies, such as those conducted by the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), emphasize the importance
of gathering data on firefighter body dimensions to support design changes that
improve the ergonomic fit and effectiveness of PPE. By analyzing the physical
characteristics of firefighters, NIOSH has contributed to the development of PPE
that is snug, functional, and offers the required level of protection in
hazardous environments Sadeghpour (2015).
Furthermore, a study by Nayak
(2014) highlights the
importance of balancing performance and comfort in firefighter protective
clothing. While protective clothing must effectively shield firefighters from
flames and heat, it should also be designed with ergonomic considerations to
allow ease of movement and reduce physical strain during firefighting tasks.
Multi-layered clothing systems have been proposed as a solution to optimize
both protection and comfort, offering flexibility for firefighters to adjust
their attire based on the intensity of the situation Nayak
(2014).
However, these two requirements are contradictory and for
heat and flame protection this becomes more obvious. The clothing should
protect from flame and prevent the external heat from entering the body.
Protective clothing is being designed with ergonomic considerations to allow
ease of movement and reduced physical strain during firefighting tasks.
Multi-layered clothing systems offer flexibility by allowing firefighters to
adjust their attire based on the intensity of the situation, optimizing both protection
and comfort Nayak
(2014).
Given the lack of studies on firefighter PPE design and safety specifically in Mumbai and Goa, India, and the importance of addressing ergonomic considerations and comfort without compromising protection, conducting a study in these locations is essential. By gathering data on firefighter body dimensions and assessing the performance and comfort of protective clothing in the unique environmental conditions of Mumbai and Goa, this study aims to contribute valuable insights that can inform the design and selection of PPE, ultimately enhancing the safety, well-being, and performance of firefighters in the field.
2. AIM
This study aims to comprehensively evaluate firefighter Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), with a specific focus on ergonomics, to ensure optimal safety and comfort during firefighting operations. By conducting a thorough assessment of PPE design and functionality, this study seeks to identify areas for improvement that will enhance the ergonomic fit, mobility, and overall effectiveness of protective gear. The ultimate goal is to provide firefighters with PPE that not only offers maximum protection against hazards but also minimizes physical strain and discomfort, thereby promoting their safety, well-being, and operational performance in challenging and hazardous environments.
3. METHODOLOGY
The research follows an exploratory study design aiming to understand firefighter experiences with their protective gear and identify any associated issues. A total of 160 firefighters from 15 fire stations across Goa and Maharashtra were randomly selected for participation. Inclusion criteria specified active firefighters aged between 21 and 50 years, while exclusion criteria excluded retired or inactive firefighters, as well as individuals with severe musculoskeletal conditions or disabilities that could influence the results. Informed consent was obtained from all participating firefighters before data collection. Rao (2015)
Data collection utilized multiple tools, including a self-constructed questionnaire designed to gather information on firefighters' ergonomic experiences and the personal protective equipment (PPE) they utilized. Additionally, an observation method was employed to supplement questionnaire responses, providing further insights into firefighters' interactions with their gear. Interviews were conducted with each firefighter, lasting approximately 20 to 25 minutes, to allow for in-depth exploration of their experiences and perspectives. Furthermore, a PPE Evaluation Checklist was utilized to systematically assess the condition and effectiveness of the protective equipment. Suman et al. (2024)
For data analysis, basic statistical measures such as frequency and percentage were employed using Microsoft Excel. This analysis aimed to identify any problems or limitations with the PPE and evaluate the impact of specific tasks firefighters undertook while using the gear. Based on the findings, recommendations were formulated to address any identified shortcomings in the current PPE, with a particular focus on improving ergonomic design features to better meet the needs and preferences of firefighters. These recommendations aimed to inform future improvements in PPE design and selection, ultimately enhancing the safety, comfort, and effectiveness of firefighters during operational tasks.
4. FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS
4.1. Demographic Profile
The
average age of the sample is 35.6 years, which shows they belong to the younger
generation of firefighters. The firefighters have an average of 9.4 years of
total work experience and about 8.4 years of related firefighting experience.
67942.1%) are graduates. 74.2% have permanent employment, whereas 42(26.4%)
being employed temporarily. 124(78%) are designated firemen with 16(10%)
leading firemen. The sample also had 2(1.3%) station officers.
Figure 1
Figure 1 Demographic Profile |
4.2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is of utmost importance to firefighters as it serves as a critical line of defense against various hazards encountered during firefighting operations. Some main reasons for its importance Global Threat Report (2024) are:
· PPE, such as fire-resistant clothing and helmets, shields firefighters from extreme temperatures and flames encountered during firefighting tasks, reducing the risk of burns and heat-related injuries.
· Respiratory PPE, including masks and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), safeguards firefighters against smoke, toxic gases, and airborne contaminants, ensuring they can breathe safely in hazardous environments.
· Helmets, gloves, and boots protect against falling debris, sharp objects, and other physical hazards, reducing the risk of head injuries, cuts, and punctures.
· PPE equipped with specialized materials and coatings offers protection against chemical spills, biological contaminants, and other hazardous substances encountered during emergency response activities.
· High-visibility PPE, such as reflective vests and clothing, improves firefighters' visibility in low-light conditions, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall safety on the scene.
· Comfortable and well-fitted PPE can boost firefighters' confidence and psychological well-being, allowing them to focus on their tasks effectively without distractions or discomfort.
Adhering to PPE guidelines and standards ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices, and promotes a culture of safety within firefighting organizations. The importance of PPE to firefighters cannot be overstated, as it plays a vital role in safeguarding their health, safety, and well-being during emergency response operations.
The PPEs were evaluated for Comfort, Uncomfortable components, Restriction caused, Design, and Overall effectiveness.
1)
PPE Evaluation for Comfort: The
provided data presents the evaluation of various Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE) items based on comfort, rated on a scale of 1 to 5. The summary of the
findings is as follows:
· Fire Helmets: Most respondents (44.4%) rated fire helmets with a comfort score of 10, indicating high satisfaction in terms of comfort. Additionally, 34.4% rated them at 8, further demonstrating positive feedback.
· Hoods & Face Protection: The majority of respondents (60%) rated hoods and face protection with a comfort score of 9, indicating a high level of comfort. A significant portion (18.8%) rated them at 10 as well.
· Safety Glasses/Goggles: Comfort ratings for safety glasses/goggles were distributed across various scores, with 37.5% rating them at 9 and 19.4% at 10, suggesting generally positive feedback regarding comfort.
· Gloves: A considerable majority (62.5%) rated gloves with a comfort score of 9, indicating high satisfaction in this aspect. Additionally, 25.6% rated them at 10.
· Firefighting Boots: Firefighting boots received predominantly high comfort ratings, with 75.6% of respondents giving them a score of 10. Another 15.6% rated them at 9.
· Belts & Harness: Comfort ratings for belts and harnesses were distributed across various scores, with 36.3% rating them at 9 and 25% at 10, indicating generally positive feedback.
· Breathing Apparatus: Although the comfort ratings for breathing apparatus were not as high as other items, a substantial portion of respondents (50.6%) rated them with a comfort score of 9, with an additional 23.8% rating them at 10.
The data suggests that the majority of respondents expressed high levels of satisfaction with the comfort of the evaluated PPE items, particularly fire helmets, hoods & face protection, gloves, firefighting boots, and belts & harnesses. However, there may be opportunities for improvement in the comfort of safety glasses/goggles and breathing apparatus based on the distribution of ratings.
2)
Uncomfortable Component: Analyzing
the provided data on personal protective equipment (PPE) evaluations reveals
insights into user satisfaction regarding both protection and comfort. This
focuses on potential areas for improvement:
·
Firefighting
Boots stand out for their high approval (75.6% rated 10), suggesting a
successful balance between protection and comfort. However, continuous
innovation to enhance comfort is advisable.
·
Gloves
and Breathing Apparatus are well-regarded (62.5% and 50.6% rated 9,
respectively), indicating effective protection. Enhancements in wearability and
ergonomics could further increase user satisfaction.
·
Belts
& Harness and Hoods & Face Protection present opportunities for
improvement in adjustability and breathability, respectively, to better meet
user needs for comfort and functionality.
·
Safety
Glasses/Goggles are praised for their protection but could benefit from
anti-fogging innovations and reduced pressure points to increase wearability.
·
Fire
Helmets, while highly rated, could see benefits from reductions in weight and
better integration with communication devices.
3)
Restriction Caused: The data in the above graph indicates the
restriction caused due to different types of personal protective equipment
(PPE) among the firefighters:
·
Fire
Helmets: Approximately 4.3%
of respondents approved of fire helmets, while 95.6% did not.
·
Hoods
& Face Protection: Only
1.2% of respondents approved of hoods and face protection, while 98.8% did not.
·
Safety
Glasses & Goggles: A
low approval rate of 3.1% was observed for safety glasses and goggles, with
96.8% of respondents not approving.
·
Gloves: Similarly, only 1.2% of respondents
approved of gloves, while 98.7% did not.
·
Firefighting
Boots: Approval for
firefighting boots was slightly higher at 1.8%, with 98.1% of respondents not
approving.
·
Belts
& Harness:
Approximately 2.5% of respondents approved of belts and harnesses, while 97.5%
did not.
·
Breathing
Apparatus: The lowest
approval rate was for breathing apparatus, with only 0.6% of respondents
indicating approval, while 99.3% did not approve.
Results suggest a
general lack of satisfaction for most types of PPE among the respondents. This
indicates potential areas for improvement in terms of design, comfort, and
functionality to meet the needs and preferences of the firefighters.
4)
Design: The data provided offers insights into the acceptance or approval rates
for different types of personal protective equipment (PPE) among respondents in
terms of its design. The summary of findings is as follows:
·
Fire
Helmets: Approximately
23.1% of respondents indicated approval, while 76.8% did not approve of fire
helmets.
·
Hoods
& Face Protection:
Approval for hoods and face protection was slightly higher, with 26.2% of
respondents indicating approval, while 73.7% did not approve.
·
Safety
Glasses & Goggles: Only
3.1% of respondents approved of safety glasses and goggles, while a significant
majority (96.9%) did not approve.
·
Gloves: A mere 1.8% of respondents approved of
gloves, while 98.1% did not approve.
·
Firefighting
Boots: Approval for
firefighting boots was very low, with only 0.6% of respondents indicating
approval, while 99.3% did not approve.
·
Belts
& Harness: Similar to
firefighting boots, only 0.6% of respondents approved of belts and harnesses,
while 99.3% did not approve.
·
Breathing
Apparatus: None of the
respondents approved of the breathing apparatus, with 100% indicating
disapproval.
Overall, the data suggests a lack of
satisfaction or approval for most types of PPE among the respondents,
particularly for safety glasses & goggles, gloves, firefighting boots,
belts & harnesses, and breathing apparatus. This indicates potential areas
for improvement in terms of design, comfort, and functionality to better meet
the needs and preferences of users.
5)
Overall effectiveness: The data provided indicates the overall
effectiveness ratings for different types of personal protective equipment
(PPE) among respondents:
·
Fire
Helmets: Approximately
11.8% of respondents rated fire helmets as effective, while 13.1% did not
consider them effective.
·
Hoods
& Face Protection: A
very low effectiveness rating was observed for hoods and face protection, with
only 1.2% of respondents considering them effective, while 73.7% did not.
·
Safety
Glasses & Goggles: Safety
glasses and goggles received a relatively high effectiveness rating, with 67.5%
of respondents considering them effective, while 32.5% did not.
·
Gloves: Gloves had a split effectiveness rating,
with 50% of respondents considering them effective and 50% not.
·
Firefighting
Boots: Similar to safety
glasses and goggles, firefighting boots received a relatively high
effectiveness rating, with 67.5% of respondents considering them effective,
while 31.8% did not.
·
Belts
& Harness: Belts and
harnesses had a moderate effectiveness rating, with 38.1% of respondents
considering them effective, while 11.8% did not.
·
Breathing
Apparatus: The breathing
apparatus also had a split effectiveness rating, with 50% of respondents
considering them effective and 50% not.
Results suggest
varying perceptions of effectiveness for different types of PPE among
respondents. While safety glasses and goggles, firefighting boots, and
breathing apparatus received relatively higher effectiveness ratings, hoods,
and face protection had a very low effectiveness rating. This highlights the
importance of addressing concerns and improving the design and functionality of
PPE to enhance overall effectiveness and user satisfaction.
5. Suggestions
Based on the
evaluation of various aspects of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for
firefighters, several recommendations can be made to enhance their
effectiveness, comfort, and overall satisfaction:
1)
Comfort Improvement:
·
The
focus must be on enhancing the comfort of safety glasses/goggles and breathing
apparatus, as indicated by the lower satisfaction scores compared to other PPE
items.
·
Anti-fogging
technologies for safety glasses/goggles to improve visibility and wearer
comfort must be implemented.
·
Options
to reduce pressure points and increase breathability in breathing apparatus to
enhance comfort during prolonged use must be explored.
2)
Enhancing Wearability and Ergonomics:
·
New
designs of gloves and breathing apparatus to improve wearability and
ergonomics, addressing user concerns and increasing overall satisfaction must
be implemented.
·
Investing
in continuous research and development to create lightweight and well-fitted
fire helmets that integrate seamlessly with communication devices, reducing
strain and discomfort during extended wear.
3)
Adjustability and Breathability:
·
Improving
the design of belts & harnesses and hoods & face protection to enhance
adjustability and breathability, providing firefighters with greater
flexibility and comfort during operations.
·
Incorporating
breathable materials and adjustable features to optimize comfort while
maintaining adequate protection levels.
4)
Anti-Restriction Measures:
·
Concerns
related to restriction caused by certain PPE items, such as fire helmets and
hoods & face protection, by exploring innovative design solutions that
balance protection and mobility must be addressed.
·
Prioritizing
user feedback and ergonomic principles in the redesign process to minimize
restriction without compromising safety.
5)
Design Enhancements:
·
Revising
the design of PPE items with low approval rates, such as firefighting boots,
belts & harnesses, and breathing apparatus, to address user dissatisfaction
and improve overall acceptance.
·
Considering
user-centric design approaches that prioritize functionality, comfort, and ease
of use to create PPE solutions that better meet the needs and preferences of
firefighters.
6)
Overall Effectiveness Optimization:
·
Enhancing
the overall effectiveness of PPE items through continuous improvement
initiatives and collaborative efforts between manufacturers, regulatory
agencies, and end-users.
·
Prioritizing
investments in research and development to address performance gaps and
optimize the protective capabilities of PPE while ensuring user comfort and
satisfaction.
The
recommendations outlined above aim to address the identified areas for
improvement in PPE design, comfort, and effectiveness based on the evaluation
results. By implementing these recommendations, firefighting organizations can
enhance the safety, well-being, and performance of firefighters in the field,
ultimately saving lives and reducing the risk of occupational hazards.
6. AUTHOR STATEMENTS
· Informed Consent: Before their participation, all participants provided written informed consent, demonstrating their understanding of the study's objectives, procedures, and potential risks.
CONFLICT OF INTERESTS
None.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The researchers express their sincere gratitude to the fire station officers and the firemen for their valuable contributions to this research study.
REFERENCES
Global Threat Report (2024). Retrieved from Fire Fighting Equipment.
Park, H., Park, J., Lin, S. H., & Boorady, L. M. (2014). Assessment of Firefighters’ Needs for Personal Protective Equipment. Fashion and Textiles, 8(1), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40691-014-0008-3
Rao, R. (2015). Ergonomics: The Science for Safe Living,” Contemporary Researches in
Humanities and Social Sciences – A deep Insight (1st Ed.). Pratibha Spandan,
Shimla. Chapter 12, 88–94.
Rao, R. (2018). Introduction to Ergonomics.
Suman, S., Sapna, D., & Roopa, R. (2024). Resource Management (RM: ASSET) Advancements & Strategies for Education and Transformation. Satish Serial Publishing House, New Delhi.
Nayak, R. H. (2014, Dec). Recent Trends and Future Scope in the Protection and Comfort of Firefighters' Personal Protective Clothing. Retrieved from Fire Science Reviews.
Sadeghpour, N. (2015, Dec). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from CDC Archive.
This work is licensed under a: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
© Granthaalayah 2014-2024. All Rights Reserved.