Effective technology in apparatus and rig seating systems requires a combination of commonsense safety improvements coupled with application integrations that aid in resisting scene exposures and their potential lifelong impacts on firefighters and emergency medical technicians. Today’s fire trucks are designed for safety, with strategically placed systems protecting occupants from a variety of angles. But what if the seats added another layer of protection? Today’s technology makes this possible. If a rollover is imminent, select system technology tightens every firefighter’s seat belt to keep him securely in place. The system also pulls down suspension to the lowest position to increase survivable space and inflates side air bags in every outboard position on the truck to cushion head impact. This one-of-a-kind technology provides first responders with a built-in layer of protection beyond apparatus industry standards, boosting safety and, ultimately, survivability.
No other apparatus or rig feature sees more use than seats, which endure a variety of conditions, from varied weight loads and turnout gear to self-contained breathing apparatus, soot, debris, and other contaminants that somehow make it into the cab. Although certain exposures are inevitable in the field, innovative applications that resist residual contaminants from penetrating into the fabric or foam of the seat are readily available, limiting added exposure and transference. Active research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has linked firefighting with a higher incidence of cancer. It is becoming a concern for everyone in the industry, and the vast majority of them agree that they should take advantage of every opportunity to hamper or reduce firefighters’ exposure.
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| (1) VALOR’s Magnus G2A Driver Seat. (Photo courtesy of VALOR First Responder Seating Systems.) |
Heated and cooled seating features are another technology recently introduced to the industry. Heat stress and fatigue are common risks associated with firefighting, and much research has been done to train the industry on thermal recovery. Environmental heat exposure combined with fire exposure and the confines of protective gear can wreak havoc with body temperature and dehydration quickly. According to the International Association of Fire Fighters, first responders feeling the effects of heat stress should always seek medical care, but in the case of normal operations, a firefighter who can return to a cooled or heated seat will find it a welcome reprieve.
So, how is heat extraction possible through an apparatus seat? By conduction through the seat surface rather than by convection or the blowing of air as in consumer automotive cooling systems. There is a twofold benefit to this conductive cooling method in the first responder market. First, the cooling system continues to work at full efficiency even when the occupant is in the seat. Second, since there are no perforations in the seat because of the cooling system, there is no degradation to the inherent ease of maintenance and “cleanabilty” of the seat systems. In the case of cold and winter firefighting, a warm apparatus seat may help firefighters maintain a normal level of body heat-i.e., 98.6°F.
Ergonomics are another area where today’s seating systems offer technological advantages. The significant challenge in the design of operator seats is to arrive at a safe and comfortable solution that is ergonomic while durable enough for the extreme duty requirements of the fire service. Whereas some people may think a seat is just a seat and focus on its exterior look and trim, seat design is really far more than what meets the eye. Paired up with the seat structure are the mechanisms, which may include air suspension, seat tracks for fore/aft adjustment, recline gears, lumbar and bolster adjustment, seat tilt, and so on. These mechanisms are designed with the operator in mind to ensure maximum comfort and adjustability for the complete range of body types. It is critical that these points of adjustment allow for ease of use, structural integrity, and overall adjustability for all users to manage muscle fatigue during long shifts.
STEVE TOREN has been a fire service industry business leader for 28 years and is vice president of the USSC Group, Inc.’s VALOR First Responder Seating Systems and FMNA Water Mist Fire Suppression. Toren leads VALOR’s efforts to introduce and grow USSC’s innovative and life-saving seating solutions to the fire and ambulance industries. He is a FAMA board member and has been a fire industry advocate on Capitol Hill, seeking funding and attention for the importance of maintaining technologically advanced firefighting fleets throughout the United States. Toren served in the U.S. Navy prior to joining the fire industry.
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