Sinclair, Wade (2015) Independent testing of low buoyancy (Level 25) buoyancy aids for Surf Life Saving Australia. Report. James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

[Abstract] The current study identified BA manufactured to meet the proposed technical specifications resulted in most physical tasks being completed somewhat easily and slightly uncomfortably with those participants 50-60 and >70kg (both excluding board) consistently reporting below the group means. Participants favoured the introduction of buoyancy aids under certain conditions compared to mandating their inclusion to training and competition environments. The resonating findings were the necessity for an appropriately fitting BA that fits securely, permits moveability and has appropriately distributed padding for the tasks likely to be undertaken. The findings of this study should be integrated with those of previous research to assist with potential revisions to BA design in order to enhance suitability of BA for non-motorised, surf lifesaving sport.

[Executive Summary] Previously, research has deemed the suitability of AS/ISO compliant Level 50 buoyancy aids (BA) as excessive for the successful completion of fit for purpose surf lifesaving sport activities that lead to a review of buoyancy standards and subsequent inclusion of Level 25 BA. The current research project was undertaken to primarily assess the suitability of technical specifications (SLSA-L25:2014) developed for low-level BA (Level 25) in their fit for purpose use within non-motorised, surf lifesaving sport. Additionally, the project sought to identify membership impressions of perceived issues and sensitivities towards the potential introduction of BA in to non-motorised, surf lifesaving sport. One hundred and fifty-eight (N = 158; males = 90, females = 68) active, financial and proficient members of Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) affiliated, surf lifesaving clubs volunteered to take part in this project. Participants were recruited from four (4) surf lifesaving carnivals: Mooloolaba, Queensland (n = 31); Lorne, Victoria (n = 67); Shellharbour, New South Wales (n = 21); and Umina, New South Wales (n = 39). All participants were pre-screened and provided informed consent to participate in this study. Once enrolled into the project, participants were provided with a brief overview of the procedure to be undertaken by the research team with care given to not bias potential preconceptions of BA use in surf lifesaving sport. Participants were then asked a series of policy related questions pertaining to the potential introduction of BA in to non-motorised, surf lifesaving sport. Participants were then asked to select a BA of their choice to trial, which was evaluated for an appropriate fit by the research team in lieu of manufacturer's guidelines and specifications. Once deemed an appropriate fit by researchers, participants were ushered to the shoreline where researchers explained the physical task requirements. Upon completion of each physical task, participants were asked a series of questions pertaining to the effort required and the comfort while wearing the BA during each of the tasks. Each participant completed as many trials as possible within the allocated time, and ceased activities when physically unable to complete further tasks due to fatigue or cold and/or upon their choice. There was considerable support from the participants for the introduction of wearing BA under heightened risk compared to being optional or compulsory during training and competition. Preconceived issues revolved around being immersed in the water and having to employ evasion skills to avoid waves or craft; having technique impaired whilst on non-motorised craft; and getting caught-up on rowlocks or with oars (surfboat participants). When questioned about the possible mandating of BA for training and competition, many participants preferred optional regulations. However, if SLSA were to mandate the wearing of BA, then participants were more likely to conform in lieu of leaving the sport. Throughout each of the physical tasks (excluding the ocean swimming task), there appeared to be buoyancy aids that were perceived more favourably by participants, which resulted in participants perceiving the completion of the tasks as easier and slightly less uncomfortable whilst wearing the BA. In contrast, other buoyancy aids were perceived to increase the effort to complete that task and resulted in a more uncomfortable feeling. When results were arranged in to body mass ranges as per SLSA-L25:2014, there were notable increases in effort (to somewhat hard-hard) and discomfort for 32.3% of the surfboat rowers (40-50 and 60-70kg) whilst rowing. The current study identified BA manufactured to meet the proposed technical specifications resulted in most physical tasks being completed somewhat easily and slightly uncomfortably with those participants 50-60 and >70kg (both excluding board) consistently reporting below the group means. Participants favoured the introduction of buoyancy aids under certain conditions compared to mandating their inclusion to training and competition environments. The resonating findings were the necessity for an appropriately fitting BA that fits securely, permits moveability and has appropriately distributed padding for the tasks likely to be undertaken. The findings of this study should be integrated with those of previous research to assist with potential revisions to BA design in order to enhance suitability of BA for non-motorised, surf lifesaving sport.

Item ID:	38936
Item Type:	Report (Report)
Additional Information:	Report submitted to Surf Live Saving Australia May 1st 2015. This report is commercially sensitive and confidential and can not be made available to the public.
Date Deposited:	24 Aug 2015 06:00
FoR Codes:	11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111705 Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety @ 100%
SEO Codes:	92 HEALTH > 9299 Other Health > 929999 Health not elsewhere classified @ 100%
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