A multi-institutional study is currently being conducted at the Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI) to better understand the exposure firefighters face during emergencies. Researchers are not only analyzing contaminants on gear but also on skin, as well as monitoring the gases released when furniture and carpets burn. The team includes experts from IFSI, UL, NIOSH, the University of Illinois at Chicago, and Skidmore College.

The study involves 12 Illinois firefighters who underwent a series of tests before, during, and after simulated fire scenarios. Blood samples were taken, vitals and temperatures were recorded, and urine was tested for specific biomarkers and hydration levels. Each firefighter also wore a heart-monitoring device for the next 12 hours to track cardiovascular responses.

Dr. Denise Smith, one of the researchers, explained that part of the goal is to assess how firefighting affects the cardiovascular system. “We talk about returning to duty after an incident. But how long does it actually take for a firefighter to recover? We’re looking at changes that happen hours after the job is done,” she said.

Each year, numerous firefighters die not on the fireground, but in the hours following an incident—often due to undetected health impacts.

To ensure accurate results, all participants wore brand-new gear to avoid contamination from previous use. They carried small chemical collection units in their pockets, which were later analyzed for exposure levels. UL and NIOSH engineers set up advanced equipment to monitor gas levels and heat inside the burning rooms.

UL Research Engineer Robin Zevotek installed thermal sensors throughout the test areas, placing them two feet apart in some rooms and one foot apart in others. He could monitor temperature changes in real-time using a nearby display. In hallways, sensors were positioned at one, three, and five feet high—simulating both victim and firefighter positions during a rescue operation.

This comprehensive approach aims to provide critical insights into firefighter safety and help develop better protective measures for those who risk their lives daily.

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