The effect of flexible body armour on pulmonary function

Area of Science:

• Military physiology
• Respiratory mechanics
• Protective equipment evaluation

Background:

• Military body armour (ISBA) presents a significant mass and fit challenge.
• This can lead to restrictive respiratory impairment, potentially affecting exercise capacity and performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare pulmonary function (FVC, FEV1) between UK ISBA and three flexible body armours (BAs).
• To assess the impact of body armour design on ventilatory function.

Main Methods:

• Eight male soldiers participated in the study.
• Pulmonary function tests (FVC, FEV1) were conducted while wearing UK ISBA, three flexible BAs (FA1, FA2, FA3), and no body armour (NoBA).
• Ballistic plate designs varied among flexible BAs to enhance flexibility.

Main Results:

• Wearing ISBA, FA2, and FA3 resulted in a 4-6% reduction in FVC and FEV1 compared to NoBA (p < 0.05).
• No significant difference in pulmonary function was observed between FA1 and NoBA.
• A mild restrictive ventilatory impairment was noted with body armour use.

Conclusions:

• Body armour use induces a mild restrictive ventilatory impairment.
• Modifications in body armour design can effectively reduce the degree of this impairment.
• Optimized body armour design may enhance soldier performance during demanding tasks.