Heart attacks are the most common line of duty deaths for firefighters according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Personal factors contributing to the risk of developing heart disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity. Workplace factors such as extreme physical exertion, heavy gear, fire heat, exposure to contaminants, and the stress and noise of emergency are also linked to the risk of heart attack.

Research demonstrates that firefighters with fewer coronary heart disease risk factors who are fit and well-hydrated display lower heart rates, breathing frequency and inspired and expired air flow than high-risk, unfit and poorly hydrated firefighters and are at less risk of an acute event. This health and fitness assessment addresses these conditions and meets the standards for medical evaluations in accordance with NFPA 1582, Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments. For continuing employees, results from the assessment are not released to anyone without written consen.

The assessment includes the following services:

• Pre-Assessment Consultation (with medical director)
  The consultation reviews your health history, establishes health and fitness goals, and confirms specific issues of concern before testing.


• Physical Examination (with medical director)
  
  Comprehensive physical exam
  Blood Panel/Profile
  Chest X-ray


• Musculoskeletal Assessment (with physical therapist)
  The examination addresses bones, joints, cartilage and muscles to ensure functional integrity of the body for performance of firefighter duties.
  
  Musculoskeletal Intregrity


• Fitness Testing (with exercise physiologist)
  
  Aerobic Capacity (VO2 Max)
  Blood Lactate (Threshold Analysis)
  Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  Cellular Health (Bioimpedance)
  Spirometry (Lung Function)
  


• Post-Assessment Consultations (with medical director and performance director)
  The consultation presents results of the assessment, health and fitness training recommendations, and referrals for additional medical diagnostic testing or health and fitness interventions.

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