SCC-IRG: HeatMind: Robust and Scalable Platform for Personalized Health Risk Mitigation in Occupations Exposed to Extreme Heat

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $1,250,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Firefighters are faced with myriad stressors from hazardous work conditions and exposure to extreme heat that place their health at significant risks. The intense heat, smoke, shift work, long working hours, and stressful work put firefighters at substantial risk for heat-related injuries, long-term chronic complications, and mental health challenges. The health risks are further compounded in the Phoenix metropolitan area, which has one of the highest heat indexes in the nation. Therefore, there is a need to develop technologies to objectively assess the impacts of extreme heat and harsh working conditions on firefighters’ health and to provide actionable information to mitigate the health risks. This project develops, HeatMind, an AI-powered sensor-based platform that provides firefighters and community organizations with the tools to objectively monitor heat-related health and provide intervention strategies to minimize risks. The project brings together researchers with expertise in AI, pervasive computing, social and behavioral science, user-centered design, community engagement, heat resilience, and hydration science to collaborate with community partners including firefighters, fire and forestry departments, and nonprofit organizations. The project aims to improve physical and mental health of firefighters, reduce healthcare costs, improve performance, and enhance job satisfaction and efficiency. The developed technologies can be further refined for use in other commun

Key facts

NSF award ID
2531465
Awardee
Arizona State University (AZ)
SAM.gov UEI
NTLHJXM55KZ6
PI
Hassan G Zadeh
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
S&CC: Smart and Connected Communities
Estimated total
$1,250,000
Funds obligated
$1,250,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
10/01/2025 → 09/30/2029