| USFA and IAFF both feel that disease awareness for firefighters is poor |
The goal of this project was to research the long-term effects and post-exposure mitigation of occupational respiratory exposure to firefighters and develop a report based on this research.
The United States Fire Administration (USFA), in partnership with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), announces the release of Respiratory Diseases and the Fire Service, a report discussing the findings of a long-term study intended to examine and improve the occupational health of firefighters.
"USFA is committed to enhancing the occupational health and safety of America's fire service," said Acting U.S. Fire Administrator Glenn Gaines. "The purpose of this initiative is to provide information to the fire service on the mitigation of the long-term effects of occupational respiratory exposure."
"Respiratory diseases remain a significant health issue for firefighters and other emergency responders," said IAFF General President Harold A. Schaitberger. "Respiratory effects due to firefighter occupational exposure are a concern affecting the fire service throughout the United States."
The goal of this project was to research the long-term effects and post-exposure mitigation of occupational respiratory exposure to firefighters and develop a report based on this research. This effort involved renowned experts in the field of pulmonary medicine. The study will assist in recognizing and quantifying the impact of respiratory exposure, and the development of mitigation strategies and programs for firefighters, their families, and fire departments.
Respiratory Diseases and the Fire Service is available from the IAFF website (PDF, 6.1 Mb).
Further information on USFA's firefighter health and safety projects may be found on the USFA website.