NFPA 1583 is a specific performance-based standard for firefighter fitness and readiness. It addresses the physical, mental and emotional requirements of a modern firefighting career, from entry level to career development, from initial through advanced levels of training. NFPA 1583 provides a uniform fitness and readiness model to allow fire departments to implement a strategy that ensures their firefighters are physically prepared to perform their duties on every shift."
1. Assignment of a qualified health and fitness coordinator - the coordinator should be a member or a qualified outside agent and a direct liaison to the health and safety officer. They should also have a formal certification from a professional organization, relevant educational experience, or attended a workshop related to health and fitness.
2. Periodic fitness assessment for all members - an annual fitness assessment should be administered to consist of: body composition, aerobic capacity, speed and power, muscular strength, muscular endurance, mobility and flexibility.
3. An exercise training program that is available to all members - an educational program that describes the benefits of exercise on performance and health. The department should provide a fitness training program that addresses metabolic conditioning, muscular strength and endurance, mobility, and an injury prevention program that focuses on the back, knees, and shoulders.
4. Education and counseling regarding health promotion for all members - the department should provide education that promotes health and focuses on cardiovascular risk reduction, nutrition, sleep, and general health maintenance.
5. Process for collecting and maintaining health-related fitness program data - establish and maintain a confidental health and fitness program file for each member.