Rodrigues, Matilde AlexandraMachado, Ana Sofia Torres da Silva2026-03-092026-03-092025-09-25http://hdl.handle.net/10400.22/32045Firefighters, in the course of their duties, are exposed to various risks. Particular attention has been given to the physical and mental workload to which they are subjected. However, it is also important to note that these factos contribute to the risk of cardiovascular events. In this contexto, wearable chest-strap sensors have emerged as promising tools for real-time monitoring of physiological parameters in highly demanding work environments. This study examines the role of chest sensors in protecting the health of emergency professionals, particularly firefighters, by evaluating the current state of this wearable technology for monitoring cardiac variables. To this end, a systematic literatures review was conducted, identifying and critically analysing chest-strap wearable devices used in scientific studies, as well as their advantages and limitations. The literature review was carried out using the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and ScienceDirect databases, covering publications from the past 10 years. The inclusion criteria were defined using the PICO strategy, and the methodological quality os 32 eligible studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. The most frequently analysed devices were the Polar H10 and the Zephyr BioHarness 3.0. The sensors demonstrated high reliability, with strong correlations with electrocardiography, particularly under resting conditions or during loght to moderate physical activity. They allow for the collection of variables such as heart rate variability, heart rate, R-R interval, and analysis of the electrocardiographic waveform morphology. However, several importante limitations were identified: accuracy can be compromised by motion artefacts, incorrect strap placement, excessive sweating, and deterioration of the skin-electrode interface. It was also observed that the sensors analysed do not carry Conformité Européenne (CE) or Food Drug Administration (FDA) certification for clinical use, being generally marketed as wellness or fitness devices. Most of the studies were conducted in laboratory settings, which limits the generalisation of the results to real-worl contexts. Ergonomic concerns were also highlighted, such as discomfort during prolonged use and restricted mobility for certain populations. Overall, the study showed that there are devices available on the market that could be used by firfighters to detect fatigue and also potential cardiac events. However, some of them require further studies, particularly in real-world settings.engWearable sensorsChest strapsCardiac monitoringFirefightersOccupational healthmaster thesis204193494