Work Capacity Test Fatality 2004

Assistant Chief Richard Grudzinski and other members of his fire department were completing the low-intensity version of the annual work capacity pack test. The test requires a hike of 1 mile without a pack in less than 16 minutes. After the completion of the test in 14 minutes and 1 second, Assistant Chief Grudzinski commented that the test had "kind of kicked his butt." Firefighters went back to the firehouse. While at the fire station, Chief Grudzinski was seen checking his pulse frequently. At the time, the frequent checks did not cause any concern. Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes after completing the test, Assistant Chief Grudzinski collapsed due to a heart attack. Firefighters who heard the dispatch rushed to Assistant Chief Grudzinski's home to assist EMS responders. Despite all efforts to revive him, Assistant Chief Grudzinski died.

Health and Fitness, Fatality, Medical or Exertion