Researchers at the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have recorded and developed a database of firefighter body measurements to improve the design and safety of fire apparatus and equipment. It’s estimated that 100 firefighters die in the line of duty in the U.S. each year and about 72,000 are injured. Working with industry leaders, NIOSH conducted the first national survey of firefighter body dimension information, collecting 71 body dimensions. The database will aid fire apparatus and equipment manufacturers in the design of seat belts, fire truck cabs, gloves, boots, clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus carrying straps. In addition to the database, NIOSH developed and tested design procedures to improve equipment design and efficacy.