Evaluation of wearable device technology in terms of health and safety in firefighters

BackgroundFirefighting is one of the tasks that is physically difficult to perform and carries a high risk of injury and death. A better understanding of the underlying factors that influence the causes of fire scene injuries can improve firefighters' safety.ObjectiveFor this reason, the study aimed to determine the importance of Smart Personal Protective Equipment and wearable technology in protecting the health and safety of firefighters by using them instead of traditional equipment and systems. According to expert opinions and literature reviews, the dangers faced by firefighters have been determined to be thermal, physical, biological, environmental, and chemical.MethodsAnalytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluations (PROMETHEE) methods were used in the study. The AHP method was preferred because it is a systematic decision-making method that includes both ranking and comparison techniques. The PROMETHEE method was preferred because it provides the opportunity to make effective decisions in a very short time by basing the decision-making process on a scientific basis. In addition to the graphical representation of the ranking of alternatives, it offers decision-makers the opportunity to make various statistical analyses.ResultsThe weights of the hazards were calculated using the AHP method. Physical hazards accounted for the highest weight. PROMETHEE was used in the ranking of wearable smart technological products to protect the health and safety of firefighters.<b>Conclusions:</b> Products are listed as Personal Protection System, PROeTEX PPE, Wearable IoT Device, Flame Resistant Shirt, Fall Detection Systems, Smart Wearable Underwear, and WASP. With the study, it was concluded that the risk of firefighters being trapped would play an essential role in the prevention of death and injury. Improvements in wearable technological products used in the fire department will yield better results and increase safety.