The document discusses the need for EMT knee padded pants based on injury statistics showing high rates of knee and back injuries among EMT workers. A survey found that over 50% of EMT workers experience knee discomfort during stabilization procedures and over 40% would prefer pants with built-in knee pads. The document proposes designing EMT pants with dual-layer padding around the knees using a recommended material that is washable, flexible and less than an inch thick. Future plans include prototyping and testing the pants in the industry.

1. EMT Knee Padded Pants
Seth Katzman

2. Injuries
• In 2011 Dept. of Labor statistics:
• 7680 EMT reported injuries
• 780 Knee injuries
• 3050 Back injuries
• 900 caused by worker position

3. Stabilization
• Every day occurrence on
job
• To prevent further injury
• Must remain still for long
time
• Position is uncomfortable
• Compensate with back

4. Interest
• Survey:
• When holding stabilization how often do you have
knee discomfort?
• Always – 23%
• Sometimes – 52%
• Never – 25%
• Would you prefer to wear EMT pants with knee
pads/cushions built in, rather than regular EMT pants?
• Yes – 42%
• No – 58%
• Addresses reasoning for not wanting them

5. Current product availability
• Tactical 511
• Knee pad inserts
for special pants
• Expensive & wears out easily
• Rep said people don’t buy
• Reviews:
• Too bulky
• Moves too much
• In survey 89% of people do not wear braces/knee
supports

6. My idea
• Built in cushioning around
knee area
• Won’t move
• Dual layered pants with
PORON in middle
• Combination of 2 PORON
materials
• Material recommended by
knee surgeon, physical
therapist & cast supplier
• Washable
• Flexible
• Less than an inch thick

7. Price
• Average price for a pair of EMT pants $50
• People willing to spend between $40-$100
• Average was about $70

8. Future plan
• Prototype
• Startup materials requires lots of money
• $197.18/both sheets
• $6.20/pants
• Test Prototype in industry and personal wear
• Revise