By FireRescue1 Staff
NEW YORK — Departments should implement cardiovascular fitness programs and revisit NFPA 1582 Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program, NIOSH reported Thursday in response to the death of John A. Beyer of the Wilson Volunteer Fire Company in N.Y.
The 38-year-old firefighter/EMT died September 2006 suddenly of heart disease related to preexisting conditions, including a heart murmur, he had been aware of since childhood. His epilepsy was found to be a contributing factor, though not a direct cause of his death.
NIOSH also recommends that firefighters’ physical fitness for work be evaluated by fire department medical personnel, who are knowledgeable about the particular stresses of the profession. The firefighter/EMT in this case received medical clearance from his personal physician.
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