Physiological Fitness and Occupational Health Status of Firefighters in Lagos State Fire Service, South West Nigeria

Background: Firefighters operate under conditions of extreme physical exertion, heat exposure, toxic smoke inhalation, and psychological stress. In Nigeria's densely populated Lagos megacity, fire service personnel face unique occupational health risks exacerbated by inadequate equipment and long duty periods. The physiological fitness and health profiles of Lagos State Fire Service officers have not been formally characterised. Objectives: This study aims to assess cardiorespiratory fitness, pulmonary function, musculoskeletal strength, and selected blood biomarkers reflecting inflammatory and metabolic health among active-duty firefighters in Lagos State Fire Service. Methods: Sixty firefighters and twenty administrative controls will be recruited. Cardiorespiratory fitness will be assessed using the Chester step test. Spirometry will evaluate pulmonary function. Grip and knee extension strength will be measured using dynamometry. Fasting blood samples will assess C-reactive protein, lipid profiles, and fasting glucose. Descriptive and inferential analyses will compare groups. Expected Outcomes: Active firefighters are anticipated to demonstrate superior cardiorespiratory fitness but higher inflammatory markers and greater pulmonary function impairment compared to administrative controls, reflecting occupational physical and toxic exposures. Conclusion: Findings will support the development of fitness standards and periodic health surveillance for Nigerian fire service personnel. Keywords: firefighters, cardiorespiratory fitness, pulmonary function, occupational health, Lagos.