Project
ExoPELA - Exoskeletonit pelastusalalla
Project sponsors
Project results
A research and development project funded by the Fire Protection Fund, ExoPELA (March 1, 2024 – February 28, 2026), was carried out in collaboration between Jamk University of Applied Sciences and the Keski-Uusimaa Rescue Department. The objective was to investigate whether exoskeletons can reduce the physical workload in rescue services and decrease musculoskeletal strain.
Key objectives of the project
- To identify the most physically demanding tasks and the assistive technologies suitable for them.
- To evaluate the effects of exoskeletons on muscle load in simulated and real-life work situations.
- To examine user experiences and the prerequisites for implementation.
During the project, equipment trials, demonstrations, interviews, and workshops were organized for various professional groups in the rescue sector. Based on observations of tasks in rescue services, emergency medical services, and support services, simulated tasks suitable for the research phase were defined. For authentic tasks, discussions were also held with an occupational health physician regarding the participation of employees with partial work ability.
Exoskeletons suitable for the identified tasks were surveyed and acquired before the research phase. The selected devices were Auxivo LiftSuit, Auxivo OmniSuit, and Hilti EXO-T-22. In addition, a grip-enhancing Ironhand exoskeleton was used in a single equipment trial within the authentic work phase.
Key research results
Exoskeletons significantly reduce muscle load in simulated tasks.
- LiftSuit: 10–20% reduction in lower back muscle activity.
- OmniSuit: 10–20% reduction in anterior shoulder and trapezius muscle load.
- Hilti EXO-T-22: carrying heavy tools was eased by up to 60–70%.
In real-life situations, the benefits are smaller but still observable.
- LiftSuit reduced back muscle activity during lifting tasks. However, the paramedic participating in the trial did not perceive clear benefits during the testing period.
- OmniSuit reduced shoulder muscle strain during tire-changing tasks among workshop workers.
- EXO-T-22 reduced trapezius muscle strain by 67% during a vehicle extrication exercise performed by a rescuer.
- Ironhand was tested by a paramedic as support for returning to work. The participant's functional capacity improved during the trial, but a direct link to the device's support could not be confirmed, and the benefit was considered more psychological.
User experiences vary.
- Some users perceived the benefits as limited due to usability issues.
- Limitations included donning the devices, restricted mobility, and interference with other equipment.
- Time pressure in operational tasks was also seen as a limiting factor for device use.
Conclusions
Exoskeletons reduce physical strain and can support work ability and extend careers, particularly in repetitive and static tasks. However, usability ultimately determines their real-world benefits and applicability in operational work. Further development of exoskeletons for the rescue sector is justified and has already generated interest.
To enable adoption in rescue and emergency medical services, improvements are needed in usability and integration with work equipment. Priority should be given to expanding use in support services and preventive work ability support, as well as introducing the devices gradually as they develop. Continued monitoring of effectiveness and nationwide collaboration with research and development actors are also essential.
More information
Project website: https://www.jamk.fi/fi/projekti/exopela
Guide publication: https://urn.fi/URN:ISBN:978-951-830-802-0