Presenters: Steven Lavender, Ohio State University; Glenn Hedman, University of Illinois at Chicago; Paul Reichelt, University of Illinois at Chicago; Karen Conrad, University of Illinois at Chicago
Stair descent devices are used by fire fighters and EMS professionals on a daily basis. However, little is known about the demands they make on these life safety professionals. Researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago and Ohio State University will present the current results of a FEMA-funded ergonomic study on the two different device designs — carry-type chairs and track-type chairs. Data will be presented on the required muscle activity, heart rate, and perceived exertion levels for each device. A summary of fire fighter feedback on the designs will also be presented, as well as a status report on the development of performance standards for these devices.
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