Biomechanical Modeling and 3D Simulation of Firefighting Tasks
Susan Xu1, Michael Hu1, Jeffrey Powell1
1National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory, 626 Cochrans Mill Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236, USA.
Applied Human Factors and Ergonomics Conference
|October 18, 2024
Summary
Firefighter injuries are common, partly due to self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) affecting balance. This study determined maximum safe SCBA weights (35-75 lbs) to prevent firefighter injuries.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Safety and Health
- Biomechanics
- Ergonomics
Background:
- Firefighting is an inherently dangerous occupation with a high incidence of injuries.
- The self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is a critical piece of equipment that can negatively impact a firefighter's balance and contribute to injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a method for determining the maximum allowable weight for SCBA to prevent firefighter injuries.
- To utilize the 3-Dimensional Static Strength Prediction Program (3DSSPP) for biomechanical analysis.
Main Methods:
- Simulated four representative firefighting tasks: stair climb, hose carry, weighted carry, and rope pull.
- Employed a 3DSSPP model of a 50th percentile male firefighter in 100 simulated trials.
- Calculated lower back (L4/L5) compression forces and compared them against NIOSH guidelines.
Main Results:
- The maximum safe weight for an SCBA varied between 35 to 75 lbs across the simulated tasks.
- Biomechanical analysis identified specific weight thresholds linked to injury risk.
Conclusions:
- The findings provide a quantifiable range for safe SCBA weight based on biomechanical principles.
- This research can inform policymakers and SCBA manufacturers to improve equipment design and reduce firefighter injuries.
