Abstract
This study evaluates the wearing performance of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) belt for firefighters in Korea. A SCBA belt design was suggested based on the wearing evaluation of a SCBA belt; subsequently, prototypes I and II were created. A wearing evaluation of prototypes with improved design and design preference was performed. Six designs elements of the SCBA belt for firefighters were suggested based on the survey results of wearing the SCBA belt and for the SCBA belt design preference for use by firefighters. First, belt material should be made of black high-strength aramid textiles. In addition, Velcro should be used to attach and detach retroreflective and fluorescent materials along with various colors for visibility. Second, the chest belt should be made of the same material used for other parts; in addition, the chest belt should be moved to the center for center of gravity and a cobra buckle should be applied. Third, an O-ring should be applied to the back and the belt connected to the O-ring should distribute the weight in six axes. Fourth, a detachable air respirator should be able to separate by using upper and lower cobra buckles. Fifth, a separable leg belt and a detachable pocket are also suggested. Sixth, a ring for walkie-talkies, alarms and equipment as a fabric ring are also suggested. Prototype III with an improved design was created based on the results of the design suggestion.
