Requirements Gathering Through Focus Groups for a Real Time Emergency Communication System for HAZMAT Incidents (REACH)

During HAZMAT emergencies, first responders are the first to reach the incident site. Over the years, there has been an increase in the number of first responder deaths and heat related illness. Heat-related illnesses are most often studied in outdoor workers and wild land firefighters but occur in a variety of workers across the US. Surveillance programs reported approximately 28,000 HRI hospitalizations between 2001 and 2010. The progression from heat exhaustion to heat stroke can occur rapidly so first responders need warning systems to alert them to the impending health hazards of heat stress. This study works with HAZMAT first responders in Nebraska to explore and assess the status of responder safety in the state and begins with the first responder focus group requirements gathering process. A consensus building process was used for the focus group sessions and yielded thematic areas of health and safety concern. Responder safety was named the most common area of concern and solutions to individual risks were proposed by focus group participants from a local HAZMAT response team. The results of this focus group serve to inform researchers of priorities to consider in the development of responder health monitoring systems and to continue with research in wearable technology for real time health monitoring. Early intervention when monitored responders demonstrate signs of distress ultimately saves lives.