Supporting Rescue Workers in Physically Demanding Environments

How Auxivo Exoskeletons Were Field-Tested by the ExoPELA Project in Finland

Rescue workers – firefighters, paramedics, and technical support staff – are regularly exposed to high physical loads. Over time, these demands can contribute to musculoskeletal issues, particularly in the lower back and shoulders.

To explore new ways of supporting rescue workers in these conditions, the ExoPELA project was launched in Finland.

The initiative, led by the Jamk University of Applied Sciences and Rescue Department of Central Uusimaa, ran from 2023 to 2025 and was funded by the Finnish Fire Protection Fund. The project set out to test wearable exoskeletons in real rescue environments and assess whether they could help reduce physical strain in daily operations.

What Was Tested – and Why

The project evaluated several exoskeletons to see how they could help in actual field conditions. Among them were two systems from Auxivo:

• LiftSuit: designed to support forward-leaning and lifting tasks

• OmniSuit: developed for more versatile full-body support, especially during overhead work

Both exoskeletons were tested in two phases: first in controlled simulations (e.g. lifting stretches, performing CPR, overhead tool use), then during real working conditions – including patient transfer during emergency calls and support tasks in the fire department’s vehicle repair garage.

The tasks were selected based on surveys, existing data on workload and injuries, and interviews with rescue staff and leadership.

Reactions from the Field

At the beginning of the project, attitudes toward exoskeletons were reserved. Some workers were even unsure whether such tools would be accepted in the fast, physical culture of rescue work.

But things changed as the trial progressed. Many participants were surprised by how functional they actually were.

The LiftSuit was particularly well received in emergency response situations, due to its light weight, quick donning, and a compatibility with paramedic clothing and equipment belts. One paramedic noted:

“Putting on the LiftSuit with paramedic clothing was hassle-free and wouldn’t take too much time on the way out to the mission.”

In use, the LiftSuit provided noticeable support during physically demanding tasks. As one user put it:

“The LiftSuit lightened the weight considerably in the upper back and helped guide lifting posture.”

The OmniSuit showed its strengths especially in overhead tasks, where participants noticed significant relief in the upper body. However, the system’s larger size made it less suitable for fast-moving missions. It was seen as more appropriate for support roles or maintenance tasks.

“The OmniSuit significantly lightened the load on the shoulder and upper back when lifting overhead.”

Despite initial doubts, the overall experience with both systems was described as unexpectedly positive:

“Everything about the exoskeletons was a positive surprise.”

“Both exoskeletons provided noticeable relief to the upper body and were comfortable – especially if you already have back problems.”

Acceptance grew steadily throughout the project. Once a few members started using the exoskeletons and shared their experiences, more colleagues became curious and open to trying them as well.

EMG Data and Observed Effects

To better understand the impact on physical strain, the project team also measured muscle activity (EMG) during selected tasks.

Findings included:

• LiftSuit: 10-15% reduction in lumbar muscle activity during lifting, especially noticeable at the lowest point of the motion

• OmniSuit: reduced activity in the anterior deltoid during shoulder flexion of up to 20%. The effect was the strongest when the shoulder joint load was highest

These measurements matched the subjective feedback and confirmed that the exoskeletons could provide measurable relief in the targeted areas of the body. Individual results varied, depending on body size, lifting technique, and the nature of the task.

Real-World Challenges and Learnings

Some participants raised questions about donning time, especially given the tight 60-second window before deployment. Others mentioned heat, entrapment risk, or compatibility with protective gear.

At the same time, many appreciated how easily the LiftSuit could be worn under uniforms and how the devices didn’t interfere with movement. Support staff roles and paramedic work were mentioned most frequently as areas where exoskeletons fit best.

One important insight was cultural: in a field traditionally defined by physical strength and speed, new tools are more likely to be accepted when introduced through peer examples rather than top-down mandates:

“As the project progressed, people started suggesting their own use cases and even ideas for improving the devices.”

A Practical Step Forward

The goal of the ExoPELA project was to test existing exoskeletons in realistic conditions and share what worked and what didn’t.

Both the LiftSuit and OmniSuit showed potential to reduce strain, especially in specific roles and movement patterns. At the same time, the project emphasized that successful adoption depends not only on technical performance, but also on cultural fit, usability, and routine compatibility.

The findings will be shared with other rescue organizations, and a practical guide is in development to support broader knowledge transfer.

Learn more about the project at: https://www.jamk.fi/en/project/exopela