Published works

The physically and psychologically demanding nature of the tasks performed by operational firefighters in fire and rescue agencies across Australia place greater risks to health of personnel than in usual circumstances. Evidence demonstrates that individuals with underlying health issues are at greater risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event (heart attack, cardiac arrest, stroke etc.) or physical injury when performing activities of moderate to vigorous intensity. A recent Beyond Blue and Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC survey of emergency services members highlighted a greater number of mental health issues than the average for other areas of employment. Therefore, ensuring that all employees and volunteers are physically and psychologically capable of performing their roles in a safe manner is imperative.

Guaranteeing that individuals have support and access to services that could act to identify early signs and symptoms is critical to this process. The Fit for Duty Program acknowledges that it is not known whether CFA volunteer firefighters are safe to carry out their operational roles from a holistic health perspective and as a result, intervention is required. In the pilot phase of the Fit for Duty program, several approaches were trialled for medical assessments. CFA have partnered with Deakin University to develop task-based physical assessment activities that represent the wider range of tasks required for wildfire firefighting. These activities were reviewed by volunteer members who set the benchmarks for the assessment. It is envisaged that the physical assessment component will be broadened to include other higher risk areas of structural firefighting and technical response. An awareness, education and support approach was adopted for the psychological component which incorporates new and existing CFA Wellbeing education and support programs.