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Firefighters' feet: Differences by sex and weight-bearing.

Authors :
Jo, Jeyeon
Sokolowski, Susan
McQuerry, Meredith
Griffin, Linsey
Park, Huiju
Source :
Applied Ergonomics. Jul2022, Vol. 102, pN.PAG-N.PAG. 1p.
Publication Year :
2022

Abstract

Firefighters have reported their protective boots to be bulky and ill-fitting, which they believe restrict the lower body movement on the unpredictable fireground. This study used 3D foot scanning to compare the shape of firefighters' feet to the general population, the shape of female firefighters' feet to males, and the impact of the heavy fire gear on foot shape. The results found the foot breadth of firefighters was larger than the general population and the feet of female firefighters were slimmer than males. Furthermore, it revealed that the feet of firefighters became longer, wider, and flatter when bearing the weight of fire gear. Protective boots should be designed based on the foot shape and dimensions of the actual population, with consideration of sex differences and the impact of weight-bearing for their safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
00036870
Volume :
102
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Applied Ergonomics
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
156470778
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apergo.2022.103753