Relationship between cardiovascular health metrics and risk profile, musculoskeletal health, physical fitness and occupational performance in firefighters

Abstract

Introduction: Firefighting is a hazardous occupation that involves firefighters risking their lives in life-threatening situations, where they are exposed to severe temperatures, hazardous chemicals and fumes, placing tremendous strain on the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. These working conditions necessitate that firefighters remain in optimal physical condition to maintain adequate cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health in order to manage these stressors. Moreover, physical fitness, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health were significantly related to occupational performance in firefighters. However, this relationship has not been extensively investigated, particularly in South Africa.