IAFF, IAFC Unveil 3rd Edition of Wellness-Fitness Initiative -- Occupational Health & Safety

IAFF, IAFC Unveil 3rd Edition of Wellness-Fitness Initiative

Sep 19, 2008

In 1996, the International Association of Fire Chiefs and the International Association of Fire Fighters created the Fire Service Joint Labor Management Wellness-Fitness Initiative (WFI) to improve the health and fitness of firefighters and paramedics. Now, IAFC announces the release of the third edition of the WFI in a DVD format, saying this latest revision includes added information that will help fire chiefs overcome the most common obstacles in implementing the program, such as a cost-justification chapter that reviews the economic impact of the WFI on the 10 charter cities by calculating occupational claims and costs.

In addition, a new implementation chapter helps fire departments get started and offers a step-by-step approach to full implementation of the WFI. Fire chiefs can use this process to evaluate a current wellness-fitness program or to design and implement a new program that meets the criteria identified in this initiative. The WFI fitness protocols also have been updated and now include a video demonstration for each of the protocols. The appendix and accompanying video illustrate the proper methods and equipment for determining body composition, aerobic capacity, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility. The Gerkin and FDNY protocols have been replaced with the new WFI Stepmill and WFI Treadmill protocols, as well.

IAFF said it is working to develop a centralized database to serve as a repository for collecting and analyzing clinical and health outcome data generated by the 10 charter member jurisdictions. The data chapter in this third edition reviews the current efforts in this area. Other additions to the initiative include updated and expanded information in the medical and rehabilitation chapters. To order a copy of the revised program, visit www.iafc.org/publications. You may also download a low resolution version and view the videos at www.iafc.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=388.

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