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Protect fire fighters with a fitness program that's in compliance with NFPA 1583.

A key component of any department's occupational safety and health program, NFPA 1583 outlines a complete health-related fitness program designed for fire departments that's consistent with today's best practices. The 2008 edition is a vital companion to NFPA 1582: Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments.

Important revisions in the 2008 NFPA 1583 focus on:

• Health Fitness Coordinator (HFC) roles and responsibilities, along with clarification of the relationship between the HFC and the fire department physician
• Rehabilitation for return-to-duty status, including an added requirement that the health and fitness coordinator design an individualized exercise and fitness training program for any member returning to full duty from a debilitating injury, illness, or extended leave
• An expanded section on peer fitness trainers that includes requirements for trainer qualifications and responsibilities
• An overall wellness and nutrition program
• The concept that, while a health and fitness program should require mandatory participation, it should be non-punitive

New Annex material offers hands-on assistance.

Annex material is reorganized to help fire departments provide an adequate facility, rather than a prescriptive list of equipment. Annexes also contain a suggestion that the HFC have a background in functional anatomy, exercise physiology, exercise testing and prescription, exercise supervision, and leadership. There's also a self-assessment tool for use by members to monitor their individual fitness level. Definitions used in the Standard were revised for consistency with other NFPA®'s health and safety standards.