Study at TU Examines Preparedness of Firefighters
The University of Tulsa is collaborating with the Tulsa Fire Department () to study the physical readiness of firefighters – a topic that is relevant both locally and nationally. All Tulsa firefighters and those at stations staffed 24/7 around the country must complete an annual Physical Ability Test () to determine if they’re capable of undergoing the rigors of job-specific duties. But, little evidence suggests passing a guarantees a firefighter is physically fit for the job.
The University of Tulsa Oxley College of Health Sciences has received a three-year, $114,000 health research grant from the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology to investigate the validity of the as an indicator of physical readiness in firefighters. Results of this project, conducted with the help of national experts, will directly benefit the City of Tulsa, and other fire departments and communities across the country by providing valuable insight into the effectiveness and relevance of ’s current . This information will support new standards to reduce overall casualty rates (firefighters and fire victims) and the number of workers’ compensation claims that are filed.
TU research team:
Roger Kollock, PhD, , , Assistant Professor of Athletic Training / Exercise & Sports Science, The University of Tulsa
Davis Hale, PhD, , Assistant Professor of Athletic Training / Exercise & Sports Science, The University of Tulsa
Local and national contributors:
Robert B. Ellis, chief of health and safety, Tulsa Fire Department
Will Peveler, PhD, professor of exercise science, Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia
Gabriel Sanders, PhD, , associate professor exercise science, Northern Kentucky University – Highland Heights, Kentucky.
Updated 12-18-2018
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