Firefighters with Pacemakers

Hi everyone still havn't returned to work yet but the Fire Dept's cardiologist has released me for full duty also, just waiting on paperwork & what the Chief is going to say. I did finally get a response from the NFPA on the 1582 standard.
9.4.10 Pacemaker or Automatic Implantable Defibrillator.
9.4.10.1 Physician evaluation. A medical condition requiring a pacemaker or automatic implantable defibrillator compromises the members ability to safely perform essential job task 13, and the physician shall report the applicable job limitations to the fire department.
The requirements outlined in chapter 6 are applicable to candidates applying for a fire fighter position and not applicable to existing fire department members.
It is thier understanding of the requirements of NFPA 1582 to provide guidance to the physician and requires him to report any limitations of the member to the fire dept. NFPA 1582 does not establish consequences for members that have an identified medical condition. The fire dept has descretion on any accomodations they are willing to extend to the FD member.
Sorry this was so long but maybe it will help someone, this isn't a formal interpretation issued pursuant to NFPA regulations but is a personal opinion from one of the specialists that answers questions on standards.
When I get back to work I will let you all know how it goes. Good luck to all !!!!!!!!!

7 Comments

Full Duty

by fireryan - 2008-07-30 11:07:46

I have an ICD and there is no chance for me going back to duty with a ICD. The potiential hazard it poses for me and my crew is too high. A PM is different all together. NFPA 1582 is a "guideline" as you stated for the physical demands of the job.
If a "specailist" is going to clear you for duty, then your department should honor that. Especially if its a Risk Management doctor appointed by the department.
I pray you make it back to work. I am praying for that as a possibilty for me as well.
God Bless
Ryan

Good luck!

by cqmccann - 2008-07-31 11:07:16

Good luck to both of you. I am waiting to hear if I can go back as well. Got my PM in April 2008. I have to remember that whatever happens with my career, my life is better because of the PM.
cqmccann

I went back

by rt60 - 2008-08-03 11:08:29

I am a Captain on a very busy engine. I have been back to work for over 1.5 years after getting my PM. I have not had any problems.
email rt60@msn.com

Randy

Doing extremely well!!!

by PEteacher - 2010-07-05 01:07:22

It has been one year since getting my PM.

Following a brief recovery period, I have been full duty "Interior Firefighter" in a very busy volunteer Engine Company in suburban New York.

My cardiologist, who is well versed with NFPA 1582, had no problems signing off on my medical clearance.
Based on this clearance, the FD physician had no problems with it either.

In addition to firefighting, I run, bike, lift weights and play all the various sports with my PE classes.

My only restriction is in the gym: No power weight lifting (1 or 2 reps per set). Only lighter weights (10 to 15 reps per set).

Most of the time I forget that I have the device.

There is a full life after PM!!!!

How did you get clearance?

by SteveZ - 2012-06-05 04:06:11

I just got my PM. My doctor said no weights over head, water skiing or pull ups (for the rest of my life).

How did you pass the back to work testing without lifting over head?

My doctors said I could pull my leads out with firefighting activities. I don't think he will sign off.

Are you able to work with no limitations?

Any information would be appreciated.

SteveZ

Still here

by fireryan - 2014-11-18 12:11:09

Hey you guys still here? My last comment on this thread was in 2008. Now 5 years later (2013) I was released to full duty by my cardiologist. My contract allows my doc to override the county's physician who is strict with the NFPA 1582 due to liability. I've been back for a year....and loving it. Very thankful. Now I am interested in seeing what power tools you guys have used. I have used K-12 and sawzall. I am currious to see about hammer drills and chipping hammers to breach concrete. Any experience with this?

Let me know

Ryan

Check In

by FireGuy838 - 2024-04-30 11:39:30

Hey all, just found this discussion. I know most of the convo is older, but if anyone here is from MA (or even another state with Collective Bargaining), could you please send me a message?

Thanks

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Member Quotes

I'm 35 and got my pacemaker a little over a year ago. It definitely is not a burden to me. In fact, I have more energy (which my husband enjoys), can do more things with my kids and have weight because of having the energy.