Exposures of Western Australian Wildland Firefighters: Insights from Real-Time Monitoring

Background: Inhalation of bushfire smoke is a risk to the health of firefighters, particularly across Australia where bushfires are becoming more frequent and intense. This study aimed to use real-time monitoring devices to assess the particle and chemical exposures of Western Australian firefighters during prescribed burns and bushfires. Methods: Participants included volunteer bushfire firefighters and forestry firefighters. Real-time gas and particulate monitors were used across nine unique fire events to evaluate the occupational exposures of firefighters. Findings: Firefighters (n = 40) were exposed to high concentrations of particulate matter (PM), particularly PM10, with concentrations varying widely between individuals and events. Exposures to carbon monoxide (CO) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were observed at elevated levels. No significant elevation in internal polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was observed. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and the need for health monitoring programmes for firefighters. Prescribed burns appear reflective of exposures at bushfires and could serve as valuable experimental settings for refining firefighting strategies and protective practises.