Health Standards

[chief3102]

I know we have been talking in other threads about LODD's attributed to heart attacks and some of the age's of folks involved. What standards, SOP's/SOG's ,etc does your department have, if any.

I know in Lenola, after the initial medical form that is completed when you apply, there is nothing further required. This is a problem waiting to happen as far as I am concerned, but anytime any question was raised as to regular check ups, age induced check ups etc, the almighty dollar got in the way.

[JDub]

Now in Cinn City, I think, we get physicals every 2 years and every year we get a fit test and respitory test.

[papacheese]

I think 02 is trying to bait me with that "age-related" remark..LOL

Motown having a Safety Nazi, we have instituted a program that requires an extensive post-offer physical including a drug test as well as a periodical exam based on your age. Members from 18 to 29 get a physical every three years, 30 to 39 every two years, and 40+ every year.

Every SCBA qualified firefighter must complete a Respirator Eval uation Form which is reviewed by the health care provider and cleared before undergoing annual fit testing. That's straight out of 1910.134 OSHA's respiratory protection standard (the same one that brought us TITO)

It's important to remember that these physicals are at best, a quick and cursory medical "glance" and not as intense as some would think. While departments can mandate stress tests to gauge aerobic and cardiac capacity is they choose to, few can afford this...even Motown.

Many of our members are surprised at how little is done..eyesight, hearing, respiratory, bloodwork, urine exam...but in reality, it's nothing ore thana series of benchmarks to gauge a person's physical condition over a multi-year process.

Departments can also offer other, non-standardized tests as their budget allows.

There is a medical standard out there folks: it's called NFPA 1582 and like all the other "standards", whether you choose to adopt, acknowledge, or ignore - it is a "national standard of care" and WILL apply to you....especially if something goes wrong.

And no, I don't mean NFPA will stop by to slap your chief on the wrist...the OSHA people will probably visit right after the NJ Dept of Labor is finished tgheir investigation.

As the old saying goes: "Pay me now or pay me later..."