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Lifting, carrying, and moving loads or patients on a daily basis, the job of a paramedic requires good physical condition. Aware of the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), Finnish paramedics have developed, in collaboration with the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH), a method called “FirstFit.”
The aim of this method is to assess the physical abilities of paramedics, monitor their progress, and maintain their abilities throughout their careers in order to avoid any risk of injury. The idea is to create a nationwide method to improve their ability to work, prevent accidents, and prolong their careers in good physical health.
Assessing the physical abilities of paramedics to better prevent risks
This initiative, launched in 2019, began with an initial project entitled “Assessment and promotion of the functional capacity and work ability of paramedics at all stages of their career.” The aim of the latter was to create a uniform method for assessing the physical abilities of paramedics based on the requirements of their daily work. To this end, specific physical tests were studied and selected to measure their strength, endurance, flexibility, coordination, aerobic capacity, etc.
From theory to practice: physical tests adapted to the needs of the profession
With this objective achieved in 2021, the initiative is continuing with the implementation in 2023 of a second project entitled “Development of instructions for physical fitness tests, test feedback, and training instructions for the FirstFit method.” This project focused on the practical implementation of physical tests in the field: developing standardized instructions, defining a procedure for providing feedback on the tests performed, creating training materials, and adapting this method for use in different organizations that employ paramedics.
Results and transferability of the method to other countries
The FirstFit method, which includes specific reference values for each profession, has been tested in 11 emergency services, seven paramedic occupational health services, and some paramedic training institutions.
According to EU-OSHA, this method was developed on the basis of internationally available studies and research, which means that other interested organizations or entities can follow a similar process in their own Member States.
Project presentation by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH)
