Resources
We want to share this knowledge with you. We ask you to help us share it with your colleagues and administration so that we can make the fire service safer, together.
All research below comes from peer-reviewed. None of the research below belongs to EaseAlert.
DHHS (NIOSH) Publication Number 2013-142
Promoting Hearing Health among Firefighters
“Exposure to high noise levels among firefighters is well documented and increases the risk for noise-induced hearing loss. NIOSH recommends measures to promote better hearing health through the use of quieter equipment, better work practices, hearing protection devices, and implementation of effective hearing loss prevention programs.”
European Heart Journal
Cardiovascular effects of environmental noise exposure
“Beyond its effects on the auditory system, noise causes annoyance and disturbs sleep, and it impairs cognitive performance. Furthermore… environmental noise is associated with an increased incidence of arterial hypertension, heart attack, and stroke.”
Link to study here.
Current Cardiology Reviews
Sleep Duration as a Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease
“Those who sleep less than 5 hours per night have a 2.3-fold greater risk of suffering a heart attack than those who get 6-8 hours of sleep.”
Link to study here.
Heart
Long working hours, sedentary work, noise, night shifts and risk of ischemic heart disease
“This study suggests that occupational exposures to high levels of noise and night shift work might be associated with ischemic heart disease risk.”
Link to study here.
The Mesothelioma Center
Asbestos Information
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing due to its heat-resistant properties. However, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health issues such as mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Firefighters, in particular, are at a higher risk of asbestos exposure due to their line of work.
Asbestos.com is a resource dedicated to providing information and support for those affected by asbestos-related illnesses, including mesothelioma.