scope:

This paper is designed to provide information to convenors that will help in choosing test limits in relation to a particular injury type and severity. It is worth noting that accident investigators use a scale known as the Abbreviated Injury Scale, AIS (AAAM). This was developed (in the USA) so that injury severity could be recorded in databases regardless of the body region and type of injury thus avoiding lengthy medical terms that were unfamiliar and difficult to interpret. This paper begins by reviewing the AIS scale and its application to head and neck injuries and burn injuries. Thereafter, each measurement type is reviewed and the severity of injury for given values is identified where possible. A section on burn injuries and fatigue related to heat exposure has been included to assist with Standards for equipment to protect firefighters. The Appendix describes the skin structure and the category and consequence of burn injuries. Premature deafness because of high noise levels and the converse problem of over attenuation of auditory warnings was also considered. Suggested levels have been included with details of test methods in Annex A.