Physiological response of beach lifeguards in a rescue simulation with surf

• Published in: Ergonomics Vol. 53; no. 9; pp. 1140 - 1150
• Main Authors: Prieto Saborit, José Antonio, del Valle Soto, Miguel, González Díez, Vicente, Montoliu Sanclement, Maria Ángeles, Nistal Hernández, Paloma, Egocheaga Rodríguez, Jorge, Santos Rodríguez, Luís
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London Taylor & Francis 01.09.2010; Washington, DC Taylor & Francis LLC
• Subjects: Adult; Applied physiology; Beaches; Biological and medical sciences; Ergonomics; Ergonomics. Work place. Occupational physiology; Female; heart rate; Heart Rate - physiology; Human performance; Human physiology applied to population studies and life conditions. Human ecophysiology; Humans; Lactic Acid - analysis; lifeguard; Lifeguards; Male; maximal oxygen uptake; Medical sciences; Near Drowning - prevention & control; Oxygen Consumption - physiology; Patient Simulation; Physical Exertion - physiology; Physiological responses; Physiology; Recreation areas; Rescue Work; safety and rescue equipment; Simulation; Space life sciences; Spain; Swimming; Swimming - physiology; Swimming pools; Torpedo; Training; Young Adult; Spain; Human; Rescue; Maximum oxygen consumption; maximal oxygen uptake; physiology; Athlete; Equipment; Ergonomics; Simulation; lifeguard; safety and rescue equipment; Safety; Professional activity
• ISSN: 0014-0139; 1366-5847
• DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2010.502255

The objective of this study was to examine the physiological response of 14 lifeguards in a swimming pool simulation with 1.7 m waves and to study the efficiency of the torpedo buoy. The rescue time was determined with and without material, as were lactate levels, heart rate and VO 2max . The results obtained showed a VO 2 max rate of 3.4 ± 0.8 l/min without equipment and 3.3 ± 0.8 l/min with equipment. Moreover, the time taken to swim towards the victim without equipment decreased by 7.7 s, while towing time was reduced by 10.8 s if said equipment was used. These results show that aquatic rescue makes considerable physiological demands on the swimmer and they also provide important data on the type of training and aptitude levels required by individuals wishing to join these rescue groups. The equipment currently used has a negative affect on the swim. Statement of Relevance: The study shows that beach rescues make very high physiological demands on rescuers, thus underlining the need to perform entry tests for these highly demanding rescue teams. The auxiliary equipment is a help in the return time of rescue. However, it causes delays in the approach to the victim.