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Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health 5/2021

Open Access 01-07-2021 | Original Article

Consensus on tasks to be included in a return to work assessment for a UK firefighter following an injury: an online Delphi study

Authors: Liam Noll, Adrian Mallows, Jason Moran

Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health | Issue 5/2021

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Abstract

Objective

The aim was to provide a consensus tasks needed to be included in a return to work assessment for operational firefighters.

Methods

A two round online Delphi study was conducted with twenty-four participants including firefighters, service fitness advisers and occupational health managers. A consensus was set at 70% agreement. In round one, participants completed an online survey relating to tasks to be included during a return to work assessment for firefighters following an injury. Round two was an online consensus meeting to discuss the tasks where consensus was not achieved.

Results

A consensus was reached for ten of the thirteen tasks, including the number of repetitions required when lifting a light portable pump and climbing a ladder. A consensus was reached for the total distance equipment which should be carried. This included carrying a ladder, a hose and a light portable pump.

Conclusions

This study has provided a consensus for tasks to be included when assessing a firefighter for return to work. Further research is needed to understand how to use this assessment optimally
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Metadata
Title
Consensus on tasks to be included in a return to work assessment for a UK firefighter following an injury: an online Delphi study
Authors
Liam Noll
Adrian Mallows
Jason Moran
Publication date
01-07-2021
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health / Issue 5/2021
Print ISSN: 0340-0131
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1246
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00420-021-01661-7

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